Fruits, Flowers, and More: A Few Last Words on Texas

Sunday, February 20, 2011

A Few Last Words on Texas

We leave Texas tomorrow. It's been a very enjoyable month, and the weather since the cold spell has been outstanding. After the 4 days of record cold, temperatures quickly recovered and we've enjoyed 70's and 80's for the last 2 weeks. The sun shines every day; breezes off the Gulf of Mexico constantly move the air; all in all, it is very pleasant. We will especially miss the park's heated pool; 92 degree water soothes the body well.

There are many more plants to talk about that we just don't see in NY. Agave and cactus - they both come in many varieties. They are both well suited to this southern Texas desert climate.

2 Agaves + a Barrel Cactus

Agave have a very striking form whether they are small 1 foot tall plants or huge 6 foot mammoths. They can stand heat, cold, drought, and/or poor soils. Their shape allows them to trap minute amounts of rain, and guide it to the roots. They can survive with as little as 3 inches of rain per year. They don't look particularly prickly, but don't be fooled. You do not want to touch agave. The leaves are stiff and sharp with thorns that grow at the ends and in the center.

Agave

Cacti also survives well in this climate. Just like the agave, they don't mind the heat, and they don't need much water. Cacti can also tolerate some cold, but were more effected by the recent cold spell than the agave. Cacti come in many different shapes, and don't touch any of them. Even if you don't see their thorns, be assured that they're there. The microscopic barbs are the worst; I know from personal experience. (See Wednesday Is Auction Day)

And so I'll end my winter reprieve with a few more pictures of agave and cacti. Tomorrow we head for a short visit with my sister & brother-in-law in Alabama before we head on back to NY. We'll be home by the first of March. Maybe, just maybe, spring will meet us there.