Who is answering my gardening questions on Ask Garden Guy?

Todd Farber — a Texas A&M horticulture graduate and Houston native with 33 years of landscaping experience. He’s the trusted voice behind Ask Garden Guy, helping Houston and Sugar Land homeowners with real, local answers.

Is Ask Garden Guy related to GardenLine on KTRH?

We’re not affiliated with KTRH or GardenLine, but we’re proud to continue the spirit of helpful garden talk! Many former GardenLine listeners now use Ask Garden Guy to get timely advice without calling in or waiting on hold.

How does Ask Garden Guy work?

Just submit your question online—photos welcome—and you'll receive a real response from Garden Guy or our small Houston-based team. No bots, no scripts, just time-tested advice tailored to your yard.

Is there a fee to ask a question?

Nope. Ask Garden Guy is free. For personalized in-person consultations, our paid landscaping design team at Garden Guy is also available at gardenguy.com.

Are bugs in compost normal?

Yes! Bugs like wood roaches (palmetto bugs) and ants are common in compost piles. They help break down materials. To reduce them, keep your pile moist and add more greens.

What’s the best compost ratio for Houston yards?

Aim for 2 parts browns (dry leaves, pine needles) to 1 part greens (grass clippings, kitchen scraps, coffee grounds). This balance helps compost break down quickly.

Can I compost Bermuda grass?

Only if your compost pile reaches 140°F+. Otherwise, Bermuda runners can survive and regrow when you spread compost later.

What perennials grow best in Houston?

Texas sage, lantana, salvias, Gulf Coast muhly grass, drift roses, loropetalum, and Esperanza are consistently reliable performers in Houston's heat, humidity, and soil conditions.

When is the best time to plant perennials in Houston?

Fall and early spring are the best times to plant perennials in Houston because those seasons allow strong root development before summer heat arrives.

Do perennials survive Houston freezes?

Most Houston-friendly perennials survive freezes, but some go dormant. Avoid cutting back freeze-damaged plants until spring when new growth appears.

Pink rose blossoms climbing on a weathered wooden fence with green foliage and grass in the foreground.

The Dirt from Garden Guy

Real Houston Advice. Real Before & Afters.

Todd Farber brings over 33 years of local horticulture experience—sharing no-fluff tips for your Houston lawn, garden, and landscape.

📸 See real before-and-after projects.

🌿 Get plant help that actually works in Texas.

📻 Skip the static. Get answers anytime.

🚜 Get Expert Garden Help Now

Trusted advice from Todd Farber—Houston's go-to horticulturist.

Sabrina Farber 12/8/25 Sabrina Farber 12/8/25

Is Your Pine Tree Dying from the Top Down? Here's What's Really Happening

When Eric sent us photos of his pine tree, he hoped for good news. The brown crown and pitch bleeding told a different story—pine bark beetles had already won. Here's what every Houston homeowner needs to know about spotting the warning signs before it's too late.

Sabrina Farber 12/5/25 Sabrina Farber 12/5/25

Which Trees Will Survive a Houston & Sugar Land Freeze?

Wondering which trees can handle Houston's surprise cold snaps? Ask Garden Guy shares 9 proven freeze-hardy trees that thrive in Sugar Land, Sienna, and surrounding areas—from majestic live oaks to colorful crape myrtles. These cold-tolerant varieties are built to survive Texas weather extremes.

Sabrina Farber 2/5/25 Sabrina Farber 2/5/25

Oak Wilt Texas: What Homeowners Need to Know 🌳

🚨 Texas Oak Trees Are Dying—And Your Yard Could Be Next!

Oak wilt is spreading fast across Texas, killing trees in neighborhoods like yours. This deadly fungal disease can wipe out entire oak populations before homeowners even realize what's happening. Learn the shocking signs, how to stop the spread, and what you MUST do to protect your trees before it's too late! 🌳⚠️ #SaveTheOaks #HoustonTrees