Calvin R. Finch, Ph.D., Conservation Manager, San Antonio Water System,
and Horticulturist
Week of May 6, 2002

Q.                Why would anybody in their right mind plant snapdragons now? The ones in the nursery are pretty but they won’t last long because of the heat. Is this true?

 

A.                 Yes, we are at the end of the snapdragon season. My plants have started to die from rust. The potted plants would be useful for a few weeks. They would be good decoration for a weekend party.

 

Q.                On your KLUP radio show you said that the cool weather weeds like dandelions and bedstraw will die as the weather warms. It has been three weeks now and mine still look green. I mow them to prevent seeding but want to kill them now. How can I do this?

 

A.                 Use Green Light Wipeout or a similar product. Read the label to insure that the herbicide will kill broadleaf weeds and will not kill your grass. St. Augustine is especially sensitive.

 

Q.                Is it too late to apply pre-emergent herbicide to prevent sand burs?

 

A.                 You will miss some of the plants. It is best to apply about March 1 and June 1 for sand burs. Apply a product like Amaze now and again this summer. Follow label instructions.

 

Q.                Our wildflowers have declined already. How long do we need to refrain from mowing to get reseeding for next year?

 

A.                 Watch the seed pods. You will get some reseeding when the pods are full size and begin to show straw color. The longer you wait, the more seeds will be distributed.

 

Q.                Is there any seed to attract cardinals without feeding all the English sparrows?

 

A.                 Safflower seed is the best choice to attract cardinals, chicadees, and titmice without English sparrows. The English sparrows have learned to eat it in some neighborhoods but they do not relish it.