I just moved to TX and don't know what I can plant in this clay.

Vahome47
by Vahome47
I want flowers--all kind--but I have a small backyard. (HOA too)

  9 answers
  • William William on Nov 24, 2017

    See what neighbors are doing or have done. Only suggestion I have is to amend the clay. Rototill compost, peat moss, and soil into the clay.

  • 27524803 27524803 on Nov 24, 2017

    The HOA should not have any say in what you put in your BACK yard (check your contract)... As to what to plant.... check with a LOCAL nursery (not a big box store... their nurseries get plants from allll over) and get their recommendations for plants that will do well in YOUR area. You might have better results with a container garden where you can control the type of soil (no digging) and the plants that go in them... they can also be moved around if you want or need to reconfigure..... here are a couple of ideas

  • Mogie Mogie on Nov 24, 2017

    What normally grows in the Texas clay besides bluebells?

    • Vahome47 Vahome47 on Nov 24, 2017

      did u know that if bluebell seeds germinate in your lawn, that you cannot cut them? Yep TX law--- But they are beautiful!

  • Kbj30588630 Kbj30588630 on Nov 24, 2017

    depends on your HOA. I am forbidden to have anything but evergreens in my front. However the garden company I work for always suggests removal the top layer of grass/weeds and to put down a nice thick layer of good compost (mushroom or other organic, black kow, and letting it sit over the winter. Plants depend on sunlight and wetness conditions. If wet area, amend soil with sand. Dig up a foot or 18 inches of soil (after removal weeds, add sand and compost, then Preen to prevent seed germination for 2-3 months, then thick layer of natural hardwood mulch. Not dyed. In spring, you'll be ready!

  • Vimarhonor Vimarhonor on Nov 24, 2017

    That would depend on your planting zone and lighting situation, colors and textures that you like.

    A great resource is your local Cooperative extension. These offices are manned by a wonderful team of master gardeners that know your local situation quite well. There's also email ( submit a photo) Q&A resources that have helped me many times. Consider googling up your local extensions office I cannot emphasize how helpful that have been to me. Good luck -Happy gardening!


  • Theresa Dibble Theresa Dibble on Nov 24, 2017

    whay about railroad ties or like four by fours build garden box above the clay. And put pitting soil or good planting dirt in side it and plant that way

  • Jewellmartin Jewellmartin on Nov 24, 2017

    What wonderful suggestions! Yes, some HOAs restrict the size of a garden and restrict some invasive plants. But all the suggestions given are common sense and are proven to give you all the plants you can manage. Make friends with neighbors. Listen to all advice. Then make your own decision and see how that works out. Welcome to Texas, and pass the brisket!

  • Vahome47 Vahome47 on Nov 24, 2017

    Thanks everybody, I like the idea of a raised box. I will probably go with that......