When discussing the subject of trees, we often think of the forest giants for excellent reasons. The majesty, the beauty, and the connection to the ages which their size evokes brings awe to our thoughts. Yet, for many people in our area much smaller trees are favored due to limited lot size. Large trees might shade most of the lot, but the homeowner may wish to add more trees. Small trees that remain in a manageable size and spread are the perfect choice. In addition, some of [...]

In previous articles I wrote of some of the quintessential Southern and East Texas trees such as Oaks and Pines now its time for three more trees that scream out “We are in the South”. The Magnolia, Sweetgum, and Bald Cypress evoke lazy summer days in the woods or on the water. These trees are occasionally thought of as water hogs, but generally only the Sweetgum will need additional watering in dry summers. All three can handle a bit of flooding with the bald cypress able [...]

Native and Nonnative Plants Native plants versus nonnative plants is a question often asked by gardeners with all levels of experience. Even defining that which is a native plant can be daunting. In this article I wish to give my thoughts. Not all natives are right for a particular site (drainage, sunlight, slope etc. may affect choice). Not all nonnatives are bad or even toxic. In my landscape I aim for 70% natives and 30 % noninvasive exotics. Keep in mind that what we do on our [...]

When a people begin to cut down their trees without making any provision for reforestation, you may be sure it is a sign of the beginning of their cultural degeneration. -Robert Anton WilsonMany early accounts of travelers to the future site of Houston remarked about the tall pine and oak forests covering much of the area. Even the earliest ads for our Houston Heights development spoke of the pines touching the feet of the angels. So which pine trees were these? Mostly Loblolly Pine, perhaps some shortleaf, [...]

This is the third in a series of very short articles pertaining to our Heights area trees and forest canopy. It is written simply and in lay terms and avoids Latin names and too much jargon. The author makes no claim to having great knowledge, just a lifetime of looking, growing, and studying trees.In this short article I will attempt to give you a few Oak tree choices for our marvelous neighborhood. If a southerner you probably instantly see a large spreading live oak in your eye [...]

This is the second in a series of very short articles pertaining to our Heights area trees and forest canopy. It is written simply and in lay terms and avoids Latin names and too much jargon. The author makes no claim to having great knowledge, just a lifetime of looking, growing, and studying trees. Our property is a part of the greater ecosystem of Houston, Texas, the New World, the Earth. We as individuals might not have a direct effect in saving the whale or the [...]