Last week I met Cindy at the garden to deliver 2 Black Prince tomato transplants. Cindy and Roger were busy with a customer buying fresh compost from our garden. I wandered through our garden captivated by the moody sky and challenged by the productiveness of our garden efforts.
Peony style poppies everywhere. We have been growing this particular poppy at our gardens for almost 20 years.Larkspur sprouting at my feet!
Wooly Mullein, is invasive to natural meadows and forests openings, we keep ours in check.
A very productive place planted with Potatoes, Spinach, Collards, Dinosaur Kale, Radishes (red and white) Napa Cabbage, Broccoli, Peppers (several varieties),Turnips, Carrots, Tomatoes and Beans.
Bluebonnets of course, and see below for information on planting bluebonnets. The yellow wildflower is Englemann’s Daisy. It is very authentic to see the pile of mulch in the background; a Raincatcher’s standard procedure.
Having recently been to places that are not in the North Texas Hardiness Growing zone (8a/ 8b), I’ve come to appreciate plants that are not usually grown here. The region of Phoenix (9a), located in the Sonoran desert, provided an opportunity to experience a very different variety of plants and trees.
During late March the streets were lined with yellow blooms on medium sized trees. These are known as Yellow Palo Verde Trees. A blue variety also exists, but yellow ones were most common. These trees are located in The Sonoran desert, Southwestern US and in Northwest Mexico.
Yellow Palo Verde tree at entrance of Desert Botanical Garden along with Yuccas, Cacti and even some Chihuly glass sculptures.
The Desert Botanical Garden was in bloom around every corner. Here are a few of the blooms and interesting specimens. The red rosettes of baja fairy duster, Calliandra Californica, were beautiful against the feathery fernlike leaves which close at night.
Baha Fairy Duster
Several varieties of the hedgehog cactus sported different color blooms. This one caught my eye and is suited to zones 5-9 in North and Central America.
Echinocereus coccineas or Hedgehog cactus with fuchsia blooms
Pilo cereus leucocephalus, while not blooming, shimmered in the fading light of day
However, there are some plants that we have adapted to our landscape due to their drought tolerant nature. The yucca being one. The Scientific and common name is the same. With over 50 species, The range of the Yuccas extend from Southern Canada through North America and down to Panama.
Yucca in Bloom Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix
These pictures were all taken at the Botanical Desert of the Southwest in Phoenix. https://dbg.org
Starla Willis. Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2011
Location: Midway Hills Christian Church ,11001 Midway Road, Dallas, Texas 75229
Saturday, May 2nd, 2026
10 AM – 3 PM
Great selection of annuals, perennials, herbs and veggies, succulents and sedums, tropicals and house plants, shrubs and trees, groundcovers, bulbs and irises grown by the intrepid Raincatchers volunteers.
All proceeds go to Dallas County Master Gardener projects.
Fading sun behind a series of cacti-Echinocereus, with the prickly Cylindopuntia,known as cholla, and a saguaro behind that
It’s special when you find yourself in the right place at the right time. The “Golden “ or “magic” hour is often that for photographers and for those that are blown away by the beauty that is experienced during that time. The few minutes around sunrise, and then yet again just before and shortly after sunset is known as the golden hour.
Recently, a trip found us in the air chasing the sunset. Upon landing the sun was just setting and it created some interesting shots reminding me of how the angle of the light changes the pictures taken during what is known as the golden hour.
Arriving during the golden hour at Sky Harbor Airport, Phoenixnow on the tram to the car rental centerStreets of Phoenix
During the rest of the day, the shining sun can create situations where the lighting is very harsh. But during the golden hours, the light softens the subjects and creates a warm look. The natural light is easier to work with because the light is more even than at midday. The low angle nearer the horizon creates a softer look with the golden hue.
During these times, the constant changing of the light creates ever changing scenes and scenarios and there is a greater opportunity for creative effects to be used. Backlighting, silhouettes, and side lighting can bring interest to the photos. Some people plan carefully for specific pictures during this time, but for others, the spontaneity of the moment creates magical shots.
For this trip, every evening brought different opportunities. Initially, the interest was the sunset and ever changing ground and sky in the plane and on the ground; the second day found us at the Botanical Garden of the Desert, which softened even the most prickly cactus, and lastly, golden hour was observed at a baseball game complete with palm trees and a pink and orange sky. Each different, each unique, and mesmerizing.
Close-up of the prickly Cylindropuntia, common name Chollas, native to Northern Mexico and the Southwest United States
Beautiful Palms in the setting sun atspring training at The American Family Fields, Phoenix Arizona
But you don’t have to be on vacation to experience this phenomenon – it could occur on your way to work, or as you travel home and it may not always be welcomed especially when the rising or setting sun is directly in your line of view. Embrace and Enjoy the beauty of this magical time when it appears.
Starla Willis, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2011
I’ve taken a “walk on the wild side” with a colorful new friend and my perspective has changed. Let me introduce you to the charming little spring bloomers known as wild violets (Viola sororia). Shortly after a refreshing seasonal rain, I was impressed by the meadow-like look the plants added to an otherwise neglected corner of our yard. They were already here, in much smaller numbers, when we purchased the 78-year-old property almost 20 years ago.
During that time, they were continuously treated as nothing more than a nuisance. Sometimes, they were even pulled up and tossed into the compost bin just to prevent them from creeping into our gravel driveway. But now things have changed. Those delicate little heart-shaped leaves and purple five-petaled flowers bring a touch of early spring beauty to that same area. We look forward to their arrival and have given them the freedom to spread as they desire.
Here are some of the reasons why we are embracing these persistent little perennials and welcome them to stay as long as they desire:
Wild violets provide one of the first nectar sources for pollinators in early spring. They’re food for butterflies, native bees and other pollinating insects. They serve as host plants for caterpillars of several fritillary butterfly species.
Both the flowers and leaves are edible and nutritionally valuable as they are rich in vitamins A and C. Violet flowers can be used in spring salads while leaves can be cooked like spinach. Also, for a very refreshing beverage, the flowers can be used to make violet syrup, the base for Springtime Wild Violet Lemonade.
Wild Violet Lemonade is a new discovery for me. After searching online, I combined the best of two different recipes with pleasing results. Give this simple recipe a try.
Freshly snipped violet blossoms rinsed and placed in a jar with filtered water
Wild Violet Characteristics
Scientific Name: Viola sororia
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness: Thrive in USDA zones 3-9
Sun Needs: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height and Width: 4-6 inches in Height
Wild violets spread through both seeds and rhizomes. While they prefer partially shaded areas, morning to mid-day sun is tolerated. Violets are very adaptable and will grow in various conditions and soil types. Let them grow!
Linda Alexander, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2008
The Awards meeting for Dallas County Master Gardeners this year reminded me of how blessed I am to be a part of this organization and especially Raincatcher’s Garden of Midway Hills. The board in charge of this event, created an opportunity to celebrate the amazing things that Master Gardeners have done over many years. The variety of projects, the people served, and the information shared is truly something of which to be proud.
So many of our volunteers were honored for their service and commitment to Dallas County Master Gardeners. Thank you for your enduring hard work and consistency.
Mary Kay Estep was a delightful MC, Cynthia presented a lifetime achievement award, and then a roll call of familiar names filled the screens, many who have graced Raincatcher’s since 2014, and even some before that at Joe Field Road. Many master gardeners have spent time helping at Raincatcher’s during Special Events, meetings, and supporting the fundraising efforts. Thank you for your support and volunteering efforts. It has been a group effort that has allowed us to obtain goals that were beyond our expectations.
We have Class Captains, those who have stayed strong for over 25 years, several who consistently have over 100 hours every year, and those who have amassed an incredible number of hours during their time as Master Gardeners. We have past presidents, board members, project leaders, and those who show up week after week to garden at our project. The vegetable group meets Monday mornings others meet on Tuesday morning to work in a variety of areas – rain garden, pollinator garden, compost area, edible landscape, color wheel, and the courtyard. There are many choices depending on your interests and abilities.
This meeting, unlike the educational content that we are grateful to hear monthly, was filled with reflection, pride, and a sense of family of Master gardeners. Raincatcher’s has a very special place in the heart of many, and I am honored to be a part of this family.
Here are some pictures from the Ceremony – not a complete list, but a representation of the family that Raincatcher’s has become. And for new master gardeners, or those that haven’t found a place to belong, we would love for you to be a part of this community.
This time of year is a busy one. Its a time of new growth and new plans for the future.
For gardeners it often involves visions of “THE BEST GARDEN EVER’.
That tends to be a wonderful few minutes. The beauty and well yes the envy of all who see it may play a part too. One can see the modest acceptance of complements and all quite clearly.
But then comes the realization that ‘THE BEST GARDEN EVER’ Will be a lot of work and the work has to start now.
So obviously the to do list must be started. It can be simple but sadly can get complicated with systems of checks columns headings –must buy a new notebook of course–it can get out of control.
Now there is a lot of good in the list It helps to have a plan and a list of tasks and even a system of checks can be ok .
But remember it’s not helpful when it becomes a goal in itself and checking things off becomes the focus of the day.
Time for a rethink
First note–your old notebook is ok–really and you most likely do not need to draw lines and decide on what color ink would work best.
Next think small and simple. –if the task is Weed the garden–that is way too much and too vague to help weed one bed or even half of one is doable and useful
Plant a tree in the middle of the garden–well maybe this needs breaking down into what to do today–maybe decide on exactly what tree would work in your space.
But more important by far is realizing that your list is for results in the future. Now of course you can’t ignore them. Weeds will ruin the garden if you don’t get them out.
There will never be a tree in the garden if it isn’t planted
However we must not ignore the present. The tasks are endless and yes they must be done but don’t let them keep you from enjoying your garden now.
Gardeners just tend to be people who take the work hard now for results later as an absolute rule. As we just said we have to do this –yes we must and its alot of time consuming work.
But also we are not promised anything but the present–this very day and hour! We must remember this and think about it and practice what it teaches us.
So yes have a list move those sticks out of your garden. Pull those weeds and plant something wonderful.
But take time to see the pale green of the new foliage as it emerges. Look and take pictures of the early flowers–its ok to notice how lovely weed flowers are–right before you pull them up!! Listen to bird song and the buzzing of the bees.
This is absolutely as important as the planting and pulling–PUT IT ON THE TO DO LIST —AT THE VERY TOP!!!
The new fresh growth is so beautifulWinter Honeysuckle, loved by the bees.Enjoy your house plants, remember Chrsitmas is not just one dayMahonia-so pretty nowHow much dead foliage can there be?Don’t forget to enjoy the vegetables from your gardenNow ready for a fresh start.You did it! All that damaged foliage was hiding the blooms.A tiny bloom on a succulent, but worth a close look
Susan Thornbury, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2008
Are you experiencing a touch of March Madness around your house? Having played basketball in high school and college, my husband follows it with such a high level of intensity that I sometimes have to “leave the room”. Considering the frustration from a gardening perspective, I’m beginning to see some similarities.
Let’s review the facts:
*The tournament features 68 NCAA Division 1 Men’s Basketball teams in an intense, single-elimination format culminating in a championship game that determines the national champion.
*It is a cultural phenomenon known for unpredictable upsets.
*It is one of the most anticipated events on the sports calendar, showcasing the amazing talents of collegiate athletes.
If you are wondering how that relates to gardening, smile first, then consider a gardener’s approach to spring planting:
*Beginning in early March, garden centers tempt us with an ocean of plants in every color, size, shape and texture imaginable. I’m sure the number far exceeds 68 participants.
*As seasoned gardeners, we understand the criteria for planting in Zone 8, and yet, we sometimes select material that either outperforms or overwhelming disappoints based on our very emotional decisions.
*Springtime for gardeners is our moment of anticipation. We’ve spent the cold, winter months studying seed packets, diligently reading instructions and carefully evaluating the possibilities. Why, because we hope to select the best performers in each “bracket”!
And so now, we have finally arrived at the most anticipated event on a gardener’s calendar; spring planting! Yes, some of our selections will have to be eliminated but, ultimately, the champions will reward us with their impressive performance. Wanna make a bet on that?
As we leave winter behind and begin the transition into spring, here are two red, white and blue flowerpot creations to welcome in some “March Gladness”!
Red: Ranunculus, Salvia ‘Radio Red’ White: Candytuft Blue: Mystic Blue Salvia and a salute to our state flower, Texas bluebonnets!
Throughout the next five months, look for fun ideas using some of the flowers listed below to create your own version of a patriotic garden display. (We would also like to include some of your own red, white and blue flower displays. Please send pictures no later than June 15th for the July 4th Grand Finale!)
Our recipe for the month is a garden-inspired celebration of late winter to early spring selections. It’s easy to assemble and can be personalized according to your preferences. Substitutes might include grapefruit, navel oranges or mango as a fruit option. Walnuts, pecans or pumpkin seeds instead of pistachios. Goat cheese crumbles could replace the feta and, maybe, why not toss in some blueberries for a touch of blue!
Are you ready to bid farewell to January and move into the next month of the year? If so, welcome to the first phase of our patriotic journey with a salute to the “month of love”. It seems very fitting to celebrate the occasion by recognizing Valentine’s Day, February 14th as the perfect time to focus on the vibrant, romantic color of red flowers. And what could be more appropriate than geraniums and Gerber daisies to get us started?
As we experience a seasonal “rebirth of nature”, consider the intensity of hues ranging from deep crimson, scarlet and ruby to cherry, maroon and burgundy found in red flowers. Our first arrangement allows blue hydrangeas to make a quiet appearance while the brilliance of red geraniums establishes boldness. Also irresistible are the Harmony Double Scarlet Anemone’s with white eyes encircling a black center. The regal look of Gerber daisies unifies the composition.
*February’s featured flavor is the Southern classic known as Red Velvet Cake. Embraced for its deep red color and velvety soft crumb, this moist and tender cake is embellished with a delicate touch of red rose petals. It’s time to indulge!
Linda Alexander, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2008
Winter is officially here! The winter solstice has come, leaves have finally turned and fallen, and the Frost Weed has frosted. Never mind that we are alternating between sweaters and shorts. It is winter in the garden. Many older gardening books speak of closing down or putting a garden to bed for this season, but like children waiting to see the New Year arrive at midnight, our landscapes are not truly snoozing.
Our deciduous trees stopped producing chlorophyll. This let us see and enjoy their yellow carotene colors that were previously hidden, instead of just greens. The gorgeous reds and pinks seen across Dallas this year remind us that our autumn was dry, sunny, and certainly stayed above freezing, the conditions needed for the productions of anthocyanins. The mix of colors this year was constantly changing and quite stunning.
But now these trees are bare (my sister refers to them as stick trees) and this slimmed down profile helps to protect them and their branches from wind, snow, and ice. But those lovely leaves still have so much to offer, in one form or another across just about every landscape.
One use involves shredding leaves. This allows us to add that temperature modulating 3–6-inch layer of mulch around our trees and shrubs, or 2-3 for our flowers. That blanket is really appreciated by any newly planted perennials as they settle into their new homes. Extra shreds are perfect for composting. Whole leaves between rows in the vegetable garden keep our feet dry and relatively mud free, while they discourage pesky weeds.
But consider the advantages of doing nothing at all in much of your flower beds and lawns, leaving even a small section of your landscape undisturbed, with plant stems untrimmed and fallen leaves where they fall this winter. Those stems and leaf litter house the insects that will populate, pollinate, and protect our plants next spring. Leaf blowers, rakes, snippers, shredders, and compost heat destroy the habitat our beneficials need this season.
Not all our garden friends headed further south with the monarchs and hummingbirds. They have deployed many clever techniques to survive until spring and summer. Some insects are sheltering in stems, others have headed underground, and some have taken the ‘get small’ approach by wintering as eggs. Cleaver swallowtail butterflies produced their own antifreeze, turning sugars to glycol as an added layer of protection for chrysalis wintering in their cocoons. Despite appearances, life has not deserted our landscapes.
And in our pollinator gardens most especially, we want those insects to survive, to continue to play their garden roles. A fascinating study of the effects of removing autumn leaves can be found here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969725004565. To support our diminishing populations of butterflies, bees, beneficial of all kinds, please consider how you can support them as they winter in our yards and gardens. While I don’t want to offer my house as a winter vacation getaway for arthropods and arachnids, I do want them year-round in my landscape outside.
Mary Freede, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2005
DALLAS GARDEN BUZZ 