A Tale of New Beginnings: The Mexican Fence Post Cactus and Rachele's Journey This is a story about new beginnings - one for a new cactus and another beginning for my second-oldest daughter, Rachele. Believe me when I say that both…

I am busy putting the finishing touches on my presentation for an upcoming speaking engagement this Monday evening... The women's ministry at Cornerstone Church in Chandler, AZ asked me to speak about desert gardening. Now, I love…

Do you ever get tired of seeing the same plants showing up in landscapes time after time?   It doesn't matter whether you live in the desert or in more temperate climates - there are always 5 - 10 varieties of plants that are used over and…

Do you like daisies? I do. Especially one that can handle the tough conditions often present in the desert garden. Blackfoot Daisy (Melampodium leucanthum) thrives in full sun - even areas that receive hot, afternoon sun.  All…

Last weekend, my husband and I loaded up our two youngest kids into our truck and headed out to the Desert Botanical Garden's spring plant sale. Desert Botanical Garden, My husband and kids wait patiently at the end of the agave aisle…

Have you ever been on live television?   If you had asked me a year ago, I would have said "no".  I had done some filming for "how-to" gardening videos for SheKnows.com - but they weren't live and took place in my back garden.…

Yesterday, I asked you on my Facebook page, what was blooming in your garden right now? March is a glorious time in the desert garden and also time for some needed garden maintenance.  We don't have a landscaper, so we…

Last week, I was visiting one of my favorite clients when I noticed that one of her citrus trees was showing signs of sunburn, which led to me explaining to her that even citrus trees need sunscreen to prevent sunburn in many cases. Recognizing…

Have you ever visited a community garden?   I had the opportunity to help create a community garden with some very special friends in Miami, Florida. Me (Noelle Johnson), Matt Mattus, Helen Yoest, Amy Andrychowicz, Steve Asbell…