Nolan Gore

The Top Choice Austin Landscaping Blog

Live Oaks in Central Texas: Facts & Stories

By Nolan Gore / July 15, 2024

Surrounded by massive live oaks – that was my childhood. My parents moved to Austin in the 1980s. They decided to buy the house before they stepped inside. It was the oaks that made the decision for them. Century oaks. Gnarled and bent. Big and grumpy. Long and horizontal. I got to know these trees…

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Texas Live Oak: Quercus fusiformis and Quercus Virginiana

By Nolan Gore / July 15, 2024

What are the differences between the Quercus Virginiana and Quercus Fusiformus? These are two species of trees that are very closely related. In fact, the Fusiformus used to be considered a variance of the Virginiana but is now considered its own species. You ca

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How to retain water in your landscape

By Nolan Gore / June 27, 2024

Despite consistent watering, your grass and plants are likely showing the strain of a long, hot Austin summer. What can you do? Luckily we’ve still got a few tricks up our sleeves to retain water — saving whatever moisture we can so your ground and plants don’t dry up. 1. Don’t waste water: inspect your irrigation…

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Why Do You Need Mulch?

By Nolan Gore / June 20, 2024

Why do you need mulch in your flower beds? Especially here in Austin? To answer this question I went through several possible acronyms to describe why you need mulch. I ended up with… SIPS! (PISS didn’t seem like it was appropriate – though it may have been more memorable). Here’s why you need high-quality, native,…

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How to Trim Live Oak Trees (and Prevent Oak Wilt)

By Nolan Gore / June 14, 2024

At the time of writing this blog, it’s almost time to trim live oak trees in Austin. Watch our video below or read on to learn why and how you should trim live oaks—and how to prevent that nasty Oak Wilt! Why trim live oak trees First…why should you trim your live oak trees in…

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Time for some spring weed control?

By Nolan Gore / April 30, 2024

Are weeds living their best life in your yard? Every spring we get a ton of calls! Why? In this article we’ve identified the primary causes of this problem and we are here to help. Watch the quick video below or read on to get those weeds under control! Are we getting more weeds this year?…

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Choosing the Best Mulch for Central Texas Gardens

By Nolan Gore / April 22, 2024

Mulching is a key practice for cultivating a thriving garden, especially in the Central Texas climate. It helps ensure your garden not only survives but flourishes! Where does mulch come from, and why does it matter? Watch my short video below, and then read on to learn more about the benefits and varieties of mulch…

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How to Prevent Mosquitoes from Breeding in Austin

By Nolan Gore / April 15, 2024

Why did God make mosquitoes? They suck (literally and figuratively).  Mosquitoes are not just annoying – they can also put your health at risk by transmitting diseases. That’s why it’s important to take proactive steps to reduce mosquito breeding sites in your yard and protect your loved ones. Let’s discuss practical tips and tricks for…

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Can Mulch Really Prevent Winter Weeds in Austin? (Video)

By Nolan Gore / January 24, 2024

Ever wonder why so many Texas landscapes use mulch? And when should you put down mulch in Austin? Well, we are well into the coldest month of the year. (January is coldest, December is 2nd coldest, February is 3rd).  What do you do when it gets cold?  You get a blanket.  What is a landscape…

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Winter Pruning and Cut Backs in Texas (Video)

By Nolan Gore / January 17, 2024

Winter pruning is often a crucial aspect of a plant’s growth. But what plants should be pruned? And how much? Use this guide to help you decide what’s best for your outdoor plants. When should you prune? Prune when it results in the least amount of damage to the plant. In general, the best time…

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