I am back from a multi-state trip where I toured many beautiful gardens. But, my favorite destination was Austin, Texas where familiar desert plants are used in refreshing new ways. I'm sharing the garden elements that inspired me and how…

I love desert willow trees. In fact, I have seven of them growing around my home! In the photo above are examples of their blooms. From top left, clockwise: 'Timeless Beauty,' 'Bubba Jones,' 'Sweet Bubba,' 'Bubba,' and 'Hope.' I didn't…

The same type of Texas sage (Leucophyllum spp.) shrubs, but one is pruned incorrectly while the other is allowed to grow to its natural shape. Which shrub would you rather have in your landscape? I will step in and say that you will likely…

While most of the garden is asleep in winter, citrus trees are filled with sweet, tart fruit ready for picking. Citrus trees are very generous in the amount of fruit that they produce. So much so, that people are often inundated…

Embracing White Flowering Plants Are white flowering plants a part of your landscape design? They certainly are in mine. Surprisingly, white flowers are often overshadowed by more vibrant shades like yellow, orange, or red. However,…

With the imminent arrival of fall, I can't wait to get to the nursery to select plants for empty spots in my landscape. Each year, I do an inventory or audit of my garden and look at struggling plants or just not adding much to my outdoor space. If…

Do you have plants that need extra water this summer? I have the portable drip irrigation solution for you! Many of us have a few plants that aren't connected to an irrigation system. Some people don't have an irrigation system and…

I have a weakness (well, one of many) to confess to you today.... I absolutely love salt.   In fact, I have a theory that the reason that so many people love french fries is not the potatoes or the fat it is fried in. No, it…

Love them or hate them, oleanders have a firm foothold in the desert landscape where they are usually seen creating living green 'walls' in order to provide privacy. Their popularity is due in large part to several characteristics: -…