Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
Can't find the answer in our existing FAQs, submit a question to Mr. Smarty Plants.
Need help with plant identification, visit the plant identification page.
From: Salado, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Wildflowers
Title: Wildflower seed balls
Answered by: Barbara Medford
This is a good time of year to be talking about this, and we recently answered a similar question, so let us first refer you to that Mr. Smarty Plants answer: Wildflower seedballs
In that answer, you will be referred to a How To Article on making seedballs. Basically, we tried to simplify the instructions in the How To Article a little bit, so it didn't sound like rocket science. What you're doing is making mud pies, so have fun!
Deadheading or trimming back of Asclepias spp
July 29, 2005 - I have some butterfly weeds (flowers) and I have heard conflicting stories as to how to cut them back. Should they be deadheaded to elongate bloom time or does that prevent any seeds from replanting?...
view the full question and answer
List of native perennial Texas flowers
March 13, 2006 - Good day, I am searching for a list of native Texas flowers (preferably perennials) for a flower garden.
Thank you.
view the full question and answer
Smarty Plants on wildflower guides
December 07, 2004 - Can you recommend a field guide to Texas plants?
view the full question and answer
Plant Identification from Decatur GA
June 14, 2012 - Hi: In early May 2012 we visited the Center--fantastic. There was a large shrub/tree with yellow blooms near a silo. Is it Retama? Also there was a lot of a purple blooming plant in with the conef...
view the full question and answer
Reducing Allergens in Yards and Gardens
January 31, 2012 - What are some allergen-free native plants to Central Texas that thrive in the soil and can survive in the weather?
view the full question and answer
![]() |
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. Mr. Smarty Plants wants you to be his Facebook friend. Click the Facebook icon to add yourself to Mr. Smarty Plants list of friends. |