April is National Garden Month, and for green thumbs across Fort Bend County, it’s the perfect time to dig into spring gardening. Whether you’re nurturing your first backyard plot or refreshing a long-loved landscape, the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners have released their top April gardening tips to help residents make the most of the growing season.

Backed by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, the Master Gardeners are trained volunteers dedicated to sharing research-based horticultural advice tailored to local climates and conditions. Their message this month? Take advantage of the mild weather and longer days to plant, prune, and prepare.

“April is one of the most active and rewarding months for Texas gardeners,” said Jody Taylor, County Extension Agent – Horticulture with the Fort Bend County Master Gardener program. “It’s a time when your planning starts to come to life—and a few smart steps now can set your garden up for success all summer long.”

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What to Plant Now in Fort Bend County

According to the Master Gardeners, now is the ideal time to plant summer vegetables such as okra, cucumbers, squash, peppers, melons, southern peas, and sweet potatoes. Not sure what to plant? Check out the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners' Vegetable Garden Planting Dates chart to learn all about the best times of year to plant a wide range of vegetables in Fort Bend County.

Tomato lovers—act fast. “If you haven’t planted tomatoes yet, you’re running out of time,” said Taylor. “Get them in the ground this month for the best results.”

April is also a great time to brighten your flower beds with warm-season annuals like petunias, begonias, cosmos, and pentas (a favorite of butterflies). Duranta erecta, known as Golden Dewdrop or Brazilian Sky Flower, is the Texas Superstar® pick of the month. It offers evergreen foliage and blooms from spring through the first frost, attracting pollinators and adding beauty to any yard.

“We love Duranta for its vibrant blue and purple flowers and its ability to thrive in full sun,” said Taylor. “Plus, it’s a great choice for both new and seasoned gardeners looking for low-maintenance color.”

Growing Herbs at Home Have you been thinking of growing your own herbs at home, but don't know where to start? Check out this guide from the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners, tailored just for you!     LEARN MORE HERE

Pruning and Maintenance Tips

Now that many winter-blooming shrubs have finished flowering, it’s time to prune species like camellias and bridal wreath spirea. Similarly, spring bloomers such as redbuds and Texas mountain laurels can be lightly shaped once their blooms fade.

Gardeners should also watch for water sprouts on fruit trees—those fast-growing shoots that can sap energy from productive limbs. “Removing water sprouts helps direct nutrients where they’re really needed,” noted Taylor.

And don’t forget about your automated irrigation systems. After recent rains, it might be wise to hold off on watering until plants actually show signs of stress. Overwatering can lead to turf diseases like brown patch and take-all root rot, both common issues in Gulf Coast lawns.

Time to Divide and Conquer (Perennials)

If your perennial flowers aren’t blooming like they used to, it may be time to divide them. April is an ideal window for dividing summer- and fall-blooming perennials before their new growth kicks in. This simple act can rejuvenate old plantings and expand your garden beds with little to no cost.

“Dividing perennials gives them room to thrive again,” said Taylor. “It’s an easy way to refresh your landscape and share plants with neighbors.”

Don’t Spray the Butterflies

As bugs begin to return with the warm weather, it’s important to distinguish pests from pollinators. While fire ants may warrant treatment, especially in high-traffic areas, many caterpillars munching on milkweed are actually future butterflies. When in doubt, the Master Gardeners encourage gardeners to consult fact sheets or use natural controls like insecticidal oils before reaching for chemical sprays. Get the scoop on pesticides and pest management from trusted experts with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.

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Celebrate Earth Day and Keep Learning

April is also a great month to mark Earth Day (April 22) by getting involved in local gardening projects or learning about eco-friendly practices. From composting to native planting, the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners offer a full library of resources, helpful videos, and even a help desk for personalized advice.

Visit fbmg.org to explore upcoming free gardening events, download planting calendars, and connect with local experts. For more local gardening advice, reach out to the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners' Ask a Master Gardener help desk for personalized support.

Highlights from April’s Bloom List

• Duranta erecta – Texas Superstar® shrub with long-lasting blooms

• Hinckley’s Columbine – Shade-friendly perennial with yellow spring flowers

• Wormwood (Artemisia) – Silver-foliaged native herb with year-round appeal

• Knock Out Rose® – Disease-resistant, nearly carefree blooming rose

• Mystic Spires Blue Salvia – Bee-loved, heat-tolerant perennial

Whether you're tending vegetables, planting pollinator-friendly flowers, or just enjoying a peaceful afternoon outdoors, April is a time to celebrate growth, beauty, and sustainability right in your own backyard.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.