Hello, hello! 👋 It’s This Week in Landscaping for November 3rd, and we’ve finally hit that beautiful, confusing time of year in Central Texas — cool mornings, warm afternoons, and a forecast that looks perfect… until it doesn’t.
Weather: Perfectly Unpredictable
We’re looking at highs in the 80s and lows in the 50s, with mild rain chances here and there. Basically, it’s that time where you need the heater in the morning and the air conditioner by lunch.
But while the temps are swinging, your landscape is steadying itself. Plants are loving this window.
Late-Season Blooms
Even as we head into November, some colorful friends are still showing up in Austin yards:
- Plumbago – still putting out pale blue flowers
- Mexican Bush Sage – waving those soft purple spikes
- Lantana – hanging in strong with bright yellows and oranges
They may not be blooming as heavily as in spring, but they’re enjoying the cooler air and post-rain moisture.
Root Growth: The Real Star of Fall
Now is prime planting season for trees and perennials.
Why? Because fall is when plants focus their energy below ground — growing roots, not leaves. Strong roots now mean less stress during next year’s heat.
Pro Tip:
Heat actually kills more plants than cold does — we just notice freeze damage more because it happens all at once. The summer heat weakens plants slowly, over weeks or months.
That’s why choosing native or well-zoned plants is so important in Austin’s extremes. They can handle both the highs and the lows.
Fun Fact: Oak Galls (Nature’s Tiny Mystery)
If you’ve walked under a live oak lately and stepped on little brown balls that crunch underfoot — or your kids have been throwing them at you — those are oak galls.
Here’s what’s really happening:
- A tiny wasp lays an egg on a twig or leaf and releases a chemical.
- That chemical tricks the tree into growing a protective ball (the gall) around the egg.
- Inside, the larva develops safely until it’s ready to emerge.
- You can often spot the exit hole when it’s done.
These wasps are harmless — so no stings, no problem. But they’re fascinating little examples of how complex trees and insects are together.
You’ll also find leaf galls in colorful reds and oranges before they dry up — more nature art for your yard.
That’s all for this week in landscaping — gorgeous weather, perfect planting season, and a fun nature fact to drop at your next backyard gathering.
— The Top Choice Lawn Care Team