Austin, TX – Spring in Full Bloom
It’s mid-April in Central Texas, and it shows. Trees are fully leafed out, wildflowers are blooming, bees are buzzing—and the grass is growing like it just had a double espresso. Here’s your snapshot of what’s happening out in Austin-area yards this week.
Trees: Leafing Out or Telling on Themselves
We’re seeing Monterey Oaks and other deciduous trees in full leaf. If you have one that still looks bare, it may be time to take a closer look. Most healthy trees are now putting out a full canopy.
Meanwhile, oak wilt is a real concern this time of year. We spotted tagged oaks with no leaves in one neighborhood, a sad but clear sign of infection.
If you’re considering trimming oaks, don’t. Spring is the worst time due to the risk of spreading oak wilt via beetles. Wait until the heat of summer or deep winter. If you need alternatives, consider Monterey oaks, cedar elms, or sycamores, which are less susceptible or resistant.
Pollinators (and a Few Creepy Crawlies)
- Hummingbirds are back—and while we don’t usually think of birds as pollinators, they’re doing important work.
- Bees are out in force, especially around Yaupon Hollies (North America’s only naturally caffeinated native plant, in case you needed a new reason to like them).
On the less charming end of the insect spectrum: giant centipedes. Saw one this week. Regrettably. They sting, they’re ugly, and they serve no purpose in my book (even if science might disagree). Kill them with prejudice.
The Wrong Time for Crape Murder
Yes, people are still topping their crape myrtles. Please don’t. Not only is it bad for the plant’s long-term health, but April is late for pruning anyway. Those topped stubs may bloom compactly for a while, but the long-term look (especially in winter) is… regrettable.
Spring Blooms to Watch
- St. Joseph’s Lilies (Amaryllis) – Bright, beautiful, and only bloom for a few weeks. They’re bulb-based and low-maintenance once established.
- Poppies – Not native to Texas but non-invasive. These WWI-symbol blooms are perfect spring-to-summer transition flowers.
- Autumn Sage, Four-Nerve Daisy, and Yaupon Holly – Perennials and shrubs alike are full of color and activity right now.
Grass Check-In
St. Augustine lawns are thriving right now. The blades are thick, green, and begging for a mow. If your turf got beat up last summer, this is the best time of year to get it back in shape. And yes—you might feel like you’re mowing every 3 days. That’s normal. And kind of worth it.
If you’re seeing anything weird in your yard—or just want help keeping up—we’d love to hear from you.
— The Top Choice Lawn Care Team