Gardening the Longhorn Way: Add Orange and White Flowers to Your Garden
Gardening can be a symbol of pride, a meditative hobby, and a wonderful way to reflect on what it means to be part of a community. For fans and alumni of the University of Texas, what better way to showcase your Longhorn pride than with a garden inspired by the University’s signature colors? Here's how to cultivate a garden that resonates with the spirit of Texas and bleeds burnt orange.
The UT Color Palette
The most recognizable aspect of the University of Texas is its burnt orange color, complemented by white. This makes choosing the right flowers crucial.
Burnt Orange:
- Daylilies (Hemerocallis): These sun-loving flowers are available in various shades of orange and can create a vibrant color display.
SHOP FOR DAYLILIES
- Marigolds: Another popular choice, they provide a punch of orange and are relatively easy to grow.
SHOP FOR MARIGOLD SEEDS
- Gaillardia (Blanket Flower): Drought-tolerant and bright, this perennial blooms with rich orange and red petals.
SHOP FOR GAILLARDIA SEEDS & PLANTS
White:
- Shasta Daisies: These daisies offer pure white petals and can brighten up any garden space.
SHOP FOR DAISY SEEDS & PLANTS
- White Roses: A symbol of purity and elegance, white roses will add a touch of class to your UT garden.
SHOP FOR ROSES
- Gardenia: These fragrant, white blooms not only look beautiful but also provide a delightful aroma.
SHOP FOR GARDENIAS
Plant Combinations for Year-Round Beauty
To ensure your garden looks gorgeous throughout the year, opt for a mix of perennials that have different blooming cycles. For example:
- Spring: Bulbs like tulips or daffodils.
- Summer: Daylilies, roses, and marigolds.
- Fall: Chrysanthemums and asters.
- Winter: Hellebores or winter jasmine.
Veggies with a Texas Twist
Why not add a vegetable patch to make your garden both beautiful and functional?
- Tomatoes: 'Longhorn' is an orange, beefsteak-style variety. A nod to the University and a delightful addition to your summer salads.
SHOP FOR TOMATO SEEDS
- Peppers: Texas has a rich tradition of spicy foods. Include various pepper plants for some homegrown heat.
SHOP FOR PEPPER SEEDS
- Okra: A Southern favorite that's drought-resistant and thrives in Texas's warm climate.
SHOP FOR OKRA SEEDS
Plant Symbols of Texas and UT
Texas Bluebonnet: As the state flower, no UT-inspired garden is complete without it. This lovely blue flower not only complements the orange and white but is also steeped in Texan pride.
Cacti: Add some desert vibes with native cacti. It's a nod to the rugged beauty of Texas and requires minimal maintenance.
Creating a garden inspired by the University of Texas is more than just choosing the right flowers. It's about evoking the spirit, pride, and heritage of the institution and its state. With a combination of the right colors, seasonal perennials, and regional favorites, your UT garden will be a talking point for every Longhorn fan and gardening enthusiast.
Happy gardening and Hook 'em Horns!
