What kind of vegetables, fruits, and flowers are good to grow in Houston, TX?

I am planning my yard and would like to do my own landscaping. What kind of vegetables, herbs, flowers and fruits are good for Houston climate hot, humid summer and mild winter. I want the fruit trees to serve both as fruit bearing as well as for shade to my house. The flowers should be a melangé of color. The vegetables should be able to supply seasonal veggies to my dining table. I know it is a tall order but any help would be appreciated. Thanks

What kind of vegetables, fruits, and flowers are good to grow in Houston, TX?
Tomatoes, strawberries, asparagus, squash, zuccini, watermelons (certain varieties will do much better than others), corn, okra (loves that climate), all types of peppers, carrots, onions, beats, radish, potatoes, pumpkins, cilantro, basil, canteloupe... hell, just about anything. Here's a link to our veg group... join it for better info....





http://groups.yahoo.com/group/OkVegGarde...
Reply:You could grow orange, plum, fig, pear and certain types of apple trees in your area. (Fall is the best time to plant so get ready!)


Herbs: Basil, rosemary, all types of mint...wow, you can grow almost any type herb. (indoors or outdoors)


Flowers.... Geraniums grow well in TX...they come in a variety of colors. Mexican Heather has small purple flowers. Lantana and sage comes in different colors also...


Visit your local Home Depot or Lowes. They will have the trees at the best prices with a year warranty. They will also have the plants that are in season.


Vegetables...I am not sure about...I have only grown tomatos. (those can be planted twice/year in your area).