Louisiana Super Plants – November 2021

During our fall workdays, we were able to begin reconstructing the Louisiana Super Plants bed in front of the Dean Lee Research and Extension Center after the conclusion of the drainage project. In lieu of installing larger plant material, we installed White Swan Columbine, Jolt Dianthus – Cherry, Pink, and Pink Magic, and Camelot Foxglove – Rose, Lavender, and Cream in the LSP bed to provide color during the winter months. These winter annuals received a pre-plant fertilizer application at time of planting to assist with plant acclimation and blooming later in the season. Pine straw was applied to provide insulation to plant roots and to help the soil retain water during irrigation and rain events.

Foundation Plants – October 2021

All of the existing Abelia plants, with the exception of two, were removed from the front of the Dean Lee Research and Extension Center building. In their place, Swing Low Distylium, Candy Corn Spirea, and White Cloud Muhly Grass were installed. This particular variety of Distylium remains short in stature, which makes it a terrific option for planting in front of windows if you don’t want to block the view. All of these plants were selected for their sun tolerance, as they are planted along the western exposure of the building.

Louisiana Super Plants – August 2021

In August 2021, the Louisiana Super Plant bed located in front of the Dean Lee Research and Extension Center was removed prior to the implementation of a major drainage project in the area.

Louisiana Super Plants – March 2021

In an effort to rework the design of the Louisiana Super Plants demonstration bed in front of the Dean Lee Research and Extension Center, several of the existing Bandana Lantana were transplanted elsewhere, leaving two in the bed. A stand of ornamental grasses previously planted along the back of the LSP bed were transplanted to make the bed a true representation of Louisiana Super Plants. In their place, Purple Muhly Grass was planted along the back of the bed. Warm season annuals consisting of Little Ruby Alternanthera, Serena Angelonia – Rose and White, Intenz Class Celosia, Henna Coleus, Fireworks Pennisetum, Lucky Star Pentas – Lavender and Pink, and Flame Thrower Coleus – Chili Pepper, Sriracha, and Salsa Roja were installed. The planting area received an application of pre-plant fertilizer before the plants were installed. Fresh pine straw was also applied during this workday.