GROWER'S
CORNER
    
     Believe it or not, it's time to start thinking about that fall garden.  Dig out
the seed catalogs and start reading through them.  It's also a good time to go
by your local garden center and pick their brains about what they'll have
available.  Let them know what you'd like and start plotting.
     It's also a good time to spruce up some tired corners or nooks in your
yard.  A few flats of summer color or a showy tropical or two can certainly do
the trick.  Planting some clumps of ornamental grass can add movement in
the landscape with each summer breeze.  Check with the garden center for
small pots of color (or plant your own) for those outdoor barbecues or pool
parties.
     Hanging baskets can dry out rather quickly in hot summer winds.  They
may need additional watering.  You might think about taking them down,
putting them in your flower beds, and only hanging them up for special
occasions or when your at home.  This might help their water requirements
and keep them from drying out so badly.
     Crape Myrtles are blooming really nice this year. Known as Texas lilacs,
they seem to love the heat.  Their spectacular color show in numerous colors
make them a favorites.  Now is a good time to buy them to make sure you get
the color you want. Local garden center should have a good inventory now.
Plant several.