Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_10.gif)
Thursday - June 11, 2009
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives
Title: Thrips on non-native roses in Austin
Answered by: Barbara Medford
QUESTION:
How can I get rid of thrips that have totally invaded all of my roses?ANSWER:
First, we need to remind you that the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is focused on the care and propagation of plants native not only to North America but to the area in which they are being grown. With very few exceptions, all roses are non-native, having come to North America with European settlers, but mostly originating very long ago in China. However, thrips can be damaging to other plants, including natives, so we will refer you to this University of California Integrated Pest Management website on Pests in Gardens in Landscapes: Thrips.More Non-Natives Questions
Yard Trees for Burleson, TX
July 24, 2011 - We need to replace 2 mature pear trees in our front yard, north side of the house in Burleson, TX. We are looking for faster growing trees that will last for decades that resist disease in clay soil....
view the full question and answer
Possibility of replacing Bermudagrass with native grasses and wildflowers
November 24, 2008 - Are there any native grasses and wildflowers that can compete with bermuda grass to make a nativ-y wild area without removing the bermuda?
view the full question and answer
Problems with non-native King Sago Palm
April 13, 2009 - My king sago palm has not branched out in over a year. I think it needs to be fertilized. What can I do?
view the full question and answer
Non-native Japanese maple for East Northport NY
August 20, 2013 - I live in NY and I am looking to plant a Japanese maple in front of my house. It would be in front of a window so I'm thinking should I get a dwarf? Or a semi dwarf? I know I want a red color but un...
view the full question and answer
Non-native lambs ears wilting in heat from Fredericksburg TX
October 19, 2011 - 3 days ago I had professional landscaping done in an area with plants that tolerate heat & sun well. We planted 7 healthy, large lambs ear & mulched. Everything planted is doing well except the lambs ...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |