n Suffocate mites with summer oils.
n Keep woody plants well watered.
n Prune away any dead wood from crape myrtles so new stems have room to grow good form and shape.
n Pecans need supplemental irrigation to assure optimum kernel development. Water deeply.
n Apply last pecan spray - insecticide and fungicide.
n Mulch to retain moisture levels and to reduce soil temperature. SEPTEMBER
n Prune out dead/diseased wood from shrubs. Do major pruning in midwinter. Pruning now may cause tender growth prior to frost.
n Stop deadheading crape myrtles and allow seed pods to form and be ready for dormancy.
n For scale on broadleaf evergreens, use dormant oil. Follow label directions for optimum temperature for application.
n Apply a copper spray to peach trees at the time of leaf drop to prevent leafspot, bacterial canker and peach leaf curl infection next year.
n Shield newly planted trees and shrubs from winter wind, apply mulch and irrigate them every week in the winter.
n Evergreens, deciduous trees and shrubs benefit from the removal of dead wood.
n Prune only dead wood from flowering shrubs now.
n Consider using a live Christmas tree that can be planted in the landscape or used as a potted specimen.
n Junipers and pines are excellent for this purpose.
n If gathering needle evergreens and hollies for wreaths and table decorations, prune selectively and carefully to preserve appearance of shrubs.
n Continue watering through winter months.
n Use good pruning practices as you select greenery for decorations.
n Do not rush to prune woody plants. Late December through February is usually the best time to prune.
Sources: Lubbock Master Gardeners and Texas Gardener Planning Guide and Calendar