A Little Green TLC

17/10/2026

Sometimes the benefits sneak up on you.

Science is validating what gardeners have known for hundreds of years. One of the largest studies to date on gardens and gardening, by the National Institute for Health Research, found that the benefits of gardening were similar to the difference in health between the wealthiest people and the poorest people in the country. It reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, promotes feelings of mastery, accomplishment and competence, higher levels of self-efficacy, self-esteem, and psychological well-being. Here, garden designer Lottie Delamain explores the links between gardening and our mental well-being, and how the natural world can be a refuge: https://www.houseandgarden.co.uk/article/gardening-for-mental-health?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dhfacebook&utm_content=app.dashsocial.com%2Fhouseandgardenuk%2Flibrary%2Fmedia%2F341792443

15/10/2026

Morning blooms

11/10/2026

These Texas natives are popping up in parts of the yard now. I love surprises.

Oxalis drummondii (Drummond's Wood-sorrel, Large-leaf Wood-sorrel, Drummond's Woodsorrel)

30/09/2026

Baby trees: On a whim, I picked up a packet of free seeds at a Williamson County Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas meeting. Less than two weeks after planting and four days after emerging, the Ungnadia speciosa (Mexican Buckeye) seedlings have their first true leaves.

Don't be afraid to grow something from seed. Nature is amazing. I just had to help the seeds along by planting them and keeping the potting mix moist.

The link in the comments will tell you more about our native Mexican Buckeye.

20/09/2026

I saw two foxes just beyond our fence about a month ago. I love my little piece of land in suburban Austin.

Texas gray foxes are some of the most effective natural rat control available and most homeowners are doing nothing to encourage them to patrol the property.

13/09/2026

Thinking about planting trees this fall?

11/09/2026

It's almost time for native plant sales.

Our ONLINE SALE – September 21, 2026 (noon) to September 25, 2026 (noon). Pick up on October 3 at our in-person sale. See the availability list here:https://npsotwilco.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sept-10-Fall-2026-Online-Sale-List-v2.pdf It's bigger and better than ever before! https://npsotwilco.org/blog/

09/09/2026

Right plant, right place applies to rocks too. 🌳

As I drive around the city of Pueblo and Pueblo West, I am amazed at how many new and older homes are landscaped with just rock. The common belief is that even though landscaping with rock is more expensive initially, in the long run it pays off with zero maintenance. While that statement is not ent...