Summers in the desert garden are hot. That's no surprise. However, there are periods within these hot months that temperatures climb higher than normal. Because of this, we do need to help protect our gardens from the effects of a heatwave. So,…

Have you ever seen the beauty of cactuses showcased in containers? Adding a cactus to a container helps to set it apart from the rest of the landscape and helps it to stand out so that its unique texture and shape really stand out. However,…

I absolutely love spring.  Some years, spring never arrives.  Sometimes spring goes missing and winter turns right into summer.  But not this year.  We have had beautiful weather and I have enjoyed being outdoors.   But,…

Do you like to use fresh herbs when you cook? What if you could just step outside your door and snip some herbs without having to go to the store?  Have you seen how expensive fresh herbs are at the supermarket by the way? And, who…

Many of us are familiar with how over-pruning can take away much of the beauty of flowering shrubs, in addition to contributing to their early death. But, have you ever wondered what they look on the inside?I found this 'ugly' example alongside…

Springtime in the desert southwest is a glorious time. We say "goodbye" to cold, winter temperatures and delight in the landscape around us and it bursts into bloom. I enjoy spending time outdoors this time of year, realizing that…

April in the desert garden is, in my humble opinion, the most beautiful time of year.  Winter and spring-flowering plants (Damianita, Penstemon and 'Valentine' Emu Bush) are just beginning to fade and summer blooms are beginning to appear…

Spring in the desert Southwest is a busy time of year. While those that live in colder climates countdown the days until March 20th, the spring season often begins a full month earlier in the low to middle desert. As a horticulturist /…

Shopping for Succulents, Desert Botanical Garden Plant Sale I enjoy attending plant sales hosted by botanical gardens. Why? Because you can often find the newest plants (even hard to find ones) at them. Of course, you can also find…