Recent freezing temperatures resulted in damage to the more tender landscape plants in our area. Before removing and placing this damaged plant material curbside for green waste pickup, consider how this plant material can become an asset to your landscape. Composting this material will create a rich organic soil amendment which benefits both container and landscape plants.
Wait to prune until the danger of further freezing temperatures has passed. The average last frost date in Montgomery County, Texas, is the last week of February; however, it is possible for freezing temperatures to occur past this date. An example was the surprise ice storm which occurred on March 4, 2014!
Creating a holding area for damaged plant material can be easily accomplished by obtaining an extra compost bin. Cut the dead material into lengths that fit into the compost bin. Store the material to use as you have available green plant material in warmer weather or use alternative sources of green material such as coffee grounds or alfalfa pellets.
Compost bins are available to purchase from The Woodlands Township at 8203 Millennium Forest, The Woodlands 77381. Residents also have an opportunity to purchase a compost bin for a reduced price ($25) at the upcoming Compost Class on February 4, 2017. Sponsored by Montgomery County Master Gardener Association and Waste Management, the FREE class will begin at 10 a.m.