If you’ve been gardening for any amount of time, you have probably discovered practical gardening practices that work for you here in Central Texas. We’d love for you to share them with us! In coming newsletters, we’ll select and share one or two submissions. Please help us make this new monthly feature a success by sending your submissions to sanantonio@npsot.org. Be sure to include your name, fully describe the gardening tip, and possibly include an illustrative photo.
Protect Vulnerable Seedlings
I love plants that “plant themselves” so I’m always on the lookout for new seedlings as they germinate in my garden. These new plants keep my plantings fresh, extend species massing, and provide opportunities to share plants with others!
However, my excitement at seeing new seedlings often turns to disappointment when I find that they were dug up by feral cats and wildlife who root through my beds. I do garden for the benefit of wildlife, so I don’t begrudge them their relationship to my beds, however, I do want to keep my plants healthy and happy.
I found that I can easily corral and protect these vulnerable seedlings from destruction by simply repurposing potted plant carriers that I’ve received from nurseries or through plant sales. They can quickly and easily protect multiple seedlings at one time and the critters don’t seem to push them around, although you could easily attach it to the ground with some sort of stake.
(Submitted by Teresa Maslonka)
