Hello experts! I am new to the Austin area and gardening, in general, but I'm excited about all the knowledge you guys are bringing! Is anybody familiar with the Afforestt method of urban forestry? I have a large backyard and section I'd like to use for this purpose, but I don't know where/how to start, which plants to use and when to plant them. I am willing to put in the effort, but I want to do it right and it seems like planning is essential is this dry environment. My backyard is currently just grass in full sun, btw. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Hi Kay. Welcome to ATP.

I have read a bit about the Afforestt movement in India . http://www.afforestt.com/index...

I would think that to do the same in your area, it would help to start off with a list of native trees and plants in the Austin area. Here is some info for you for the Austin/Central Texas area. I hope these are useful to you.

https://www.austintexas.gov/si...

https://www.wildflower.org/col...

http://austinnativelandscaping...

http://centraltexastreecare.co...

Welcome to All Things Plants, @kaydameron !

Although I had never heard of the Afforestt movement, I did check out the link that Jean provided, to get some idea of what we were talking about.

I'd suggest contacting your county Soil and Water Conversation District, which is part of the USDA. (I have some experience with this as my ex worked for a related service agency, and our local Conservation District Director is a friend.) They work with landowners regarding management of woodlots and such, and there may even be some kind of grants available for a planting such as you are interested in. It sounds like a really interesting project, and I hope you will keep us updated on your progress!

Great idea Sandy. Certainly worth looking in to.