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Growing on the edge or . . . How Daring Are You?

By webmaster | September 9, 2009

You have all heard about those who “living on the edge.” Those people who like to live life dangerously. Those who throw caution to the wind in order to experience the thrill of life’s adventures. They do this with the full knowledge that there could be danger involved. That is what we are going to explore this year in Plant Studies. How daring are you?

I’m sure none of us would consider ourselves adventurers, those who throw caution to the wind in order to experience the thrill of exploring the uncharted and dangerous. You may not think of it this way, but w e do live on the edge of uncharted and dangerous waters. It is called “sub-tropical.” The Woodlands is on the edge of the sub-tropical growing region. That line of demarcation that determines what will grow…and the big issue…what will survive….. more than one season. That line shifts considerably as natural climate changes occur. So again I ask… How daring are you?

There are those who on encountering a pond after a long and muggy hike, just jump in with abandon. That cool blast of refreshment and immediate gratification is a thrill. Sometimes it is a shock, instead of cool, the water is icy, a pool fed by snow and ice. Then there are those upon encountering the same experience, dip their big toe in and take it slowly, easing as much of their body as they feel comfortable with.

Who are you? This is important to know when you are growing on the edge.
Are you the type of gardener that goes to the Mercer tropical plant sale and buys with abandon those plants that excite, that thrill, with no thought to it’s eventual survival? Do you plop those little cuties in the ground and give them your blessing, “I hope you make it, but if you don’t, I have had one year of experiencing your exotic beauty?”

Are you the type of gardener that before the plant sale research what is available, and as you buy, you refer to your copy of “Plants for Tropical Landscapes?” Do you purchase those you feel are most likely to survive north of Houston? We all know there is a difference in survivability between north and south of Houston. Do you amend the soil with acidic material and gently plant after taken full account of sunlight requirements, plant your little jewel, with the blessing, I hope you make it, as I have given you the best possibility to thrive. If for some reason, you die, I will mourn your passing?”

Now we know who you are and now we are going to jump in the sometimes dangerous waters of “sub-tropical.” We will start our tour with our three first plant studies being members of the Malvacea Family. Hibiscus, hollyhocks and Rose of Sharon fall within this Family.
Today we will discuss the Confederate Rose.

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