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Have you ever noticed circular areas missing from your leaves? If so, you aren’t alone. The other day I noticed several of my plants with neat semi-circular sections missing. But, was I worried? Nope, and I’ll tell you why in my latest garden video.
The Enigmatic Damage to Leaves
A Puzzling Leaf Discovery
Noelle: Hey there, fellow garden enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a bit of a mystery. As I was strolling through my garden, I couldn’t help but notice something quite peculiar – several of my plant leaves had neat, semi-circular sections missing. Now, I know this might raise some alarms for many gardeners, but fear not, for I’m here to share some insights and reassure you that it’s not as ominous as it might seem.
Noelle: First things first, let’s take a closer look at these mysterious leaf patterns. You can see here on this rosebush, there’s a semi-circular chunk missing from one of the leaves. And over here on this hibiscus, another one. So, what’s going on? Is it some nefarious garden pest?
The Twist in the Tale of Leaves
Noelle: Well, here’s the twist – it’s not a pest at all! In fact, this leaf damage is quite natural and not something to fret over.
You see, the culprits behind these neat, semi-circular holes are none other than the remarkable leafcutter bees. Leafcutter bees are a type of solitary bee, and they are truly fantastic pollinators. What might appear as leaf vandalism is, in fact, a vital part of their unique nesting process.
Leafcutter bees utilize these semi-circular leaf sections to construct their nests. If you take a closer look, you might even spot some of these leaf sections tucked away in the nooks and crannies of your garden.
The Precision of Leafcutter Bees
Meticulous Craftsmen
Noelle: Leafcutter bees are known for their precision. They cut these perfect curves from the edges of leaves, and they’re surprisingly meticulous about it. The remarkable thing is that these bees aren’t interested in damaging your plants; they’re simply striving to build a safe and cozy space for their offspring.
Beneficial Garden Partners
Noelle: Now, here’s the best part – these bees are great for your garden! As they visit your plants to collect nectar and pollen, they’re inadvertently pollinating your flowers. This pollination process is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy garden ecosystem.
Embrace the Leaf Patterns
A New Perspective
Noelle: So, the next time you come across these mysterious leaf patterns, don’t panic. Instead, take a moment to appreciate the hard work of these industrious leafcutter bees and the positive impact they have on your garden.
Thanks for joining me on this little garden mystery journey. If you enjoyed learning about leafcutter bees and want to see more fascinating garden insights, don’t forget to hit that subscribe button and give this video a thumbs up. Happy gardening!
In summary, the seemingly mysterious leaf damage caused by leafcutter bees is nothing to worry about. These industrious pollinators are beneficial to your garden, and their leaf-cutting activities are just part of their nesting process. So, next time you spot these neat, semi-circular holes in your leaves, remember to appreciate the role of leafcutter bees in your garden’s ecosystem. Happy gardening!
Has this happened in your garden? What plants were affected?
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Do you have a front garden adorned with perennials and succulents, or do you simply call it a front yard? Personally, I prefer not to refer to the front area of a home as a mere ‘yard’. The definition of the word ‘yard‘ is “a piece of ground adjoining a building or house.”
A Burst of Color from Perennials and Succulents
Now, while I do have a piece of ground adjoining my house – it is so much more than that.
The piece of ground is filled with trees, shrubs, perennials, and succulents, which in my opinion makes it not a ‘yard’ BUT a ‘garden’.
So, I thought that I would show you a little of what is growing in my front ‘garden’….
Blooming Beauties: Firecracker Penstemon and White Gaura
This time of year, my firecracker penstemon (Penstemon eatonii) is in full bloom, much to the delight of bees and hummingbirds.
This tough perennial blooms January through April in my zone 9a garden. In cooler climates, it will flower in the summer.
Underneath the front window, lies a row of white gaura (Gaura lindheimeri), which flowers in spring and fall. This perennial is hardy to zone 5.
Embracing the World of Agave, Alongside Perennials and Succulents
Agave are my favorite type of succulent and I have several different types in my garden.
This one is near the front entry and is called artichoke agave (Agave parryi ‘truncata’).
It is a medium-sized agave and can grow in zones 7 and up.
As you can see, it has produced some offsets (babies, pups, volunteers). They are attached to the mother plant by a underground stem.
I have taken several of the offsets and replanted them around my garden…
This one was planted 2 years ago from the mother plant.
It is easy to take offsets and plant them in other areas in the garden. I wrote about it a few years ago and you can read it here.
The Charm of Globe Mallow in Various Shades
In late winter, I am always impatient to see my globe mallow begin to show the first glimpse of color peeking through.
I have several globe mallow plants and each one produces a different-colored flower.
Here is my pink globe mallow.
And it’s neighbor, which has white flowers.
This globe mallow has vibrant, red flowers and is located on the other side of my front garden landscape with other perennials and succulents.
While I love all of my globe mallow flowers, I think that the pink are my favorite…
The most common color of globe mallow is orange. But, as you can see, there are other colors available.
Agave Wonders: Octopus Agave and Victoria Agave
I mentioned that I had a few different species of agave in my garden.
This is my largest one, which is called octopus agave (Agave vilmoriniana).
I raised this agave from a tiny pup (bulbil) from the flowering stem of its mother, who I had grown in a large pot.
This agave has a tropical look with its curvy leaves and does best in areas with filtered or afternoon shade.
Victoria agave (Agave victoria-reginae) was named for Queen Victoria.
This smaller agave has a very distinctive look and is highly-desired, which makes it rather expensive.
I was given the largest one in the photo, above, by a client and it has since gone on to produce many babies for me.
A Twist on Lantana with a Splash of Color
Some people may think that lantana is overused in the landscape with perennials and succulents, but I like to put a twist on the traditional lantana.
There is a lantana called ‘Lavender Lace’ that produces both purple and white flowers on the same plant. BUT, it can be hard to find and is expensive.
So, I create the same look by planting both a purple and a white trailing lantana in the same hole.
Succulents Adding Texture to the Garden
My favorite types of plants are flowering shrubs and groundcovers. However, I like the different textures that succulents add to my front garden.
So, I have green desert spoon (Dasylirion acrotriche) on both sides in the front. This species of desert spoon has a darker-green color then the gray/blue leaves of regular desert spoon.
Valentine: A Favorite Flowering Shrub
Finally, I’d like to finish with my favorite flowering shrub, Valentine whose red blooms began to appear at Christmas and will last through April.
*********************
I hope you enjoyed this partial tour of my front garden. I do have trees and other plants growing, but because they are dormant in winter, I will show you them in the future, once they are looking their best.
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A ‘Painted Lady’ butterfly drinking nectar from a lantana.
Learning from Mistakes in the Garden: A Green Thumb’s Journey
Embracing the Reality of Gardening
Do you know someone who has a green thumb? Usually, it’s someone with a beautiful garden that stands out among their neighbors with thriving plants that flourish.
While you may think people with green thumbs are born and not made, I’ll let you in on a BIG secret – behind every green thumb is a trail of many dead plants.
Behind the Scenes of a Green Thumb
It’s true. There isn’t a single experienced gardener who has never had a plant die in their garden. Of course, someone with a green thumb may be hesitant to reveal this fact, and you may not notice because dead or failing plants are usually pulled out before people notice.
I’m not exempt from this either – I’ve had many plants die on my watch.
Factors That Affect Plant Health and Your Green Thumb
Believe it or not, the fact that plants die in your garden helps you to become better at growing them. While your first inclination may be to get frustrated about the loss of a plant, look at it as a gardening lesson instead.
“Every dead plant is an opportunity to learn about what went wrong and how to avoid it in the future and become a better gardener in the process.”
There are several factors that can affect whether or not a plant does well. These include the following:
1. Climate Adaptation
Is it well-adapted to your climate?
2. Proper Exposure
Was it planted in the right exposure (sun, filtered sun, or shade)?
Was it maintained correctly (pruning, fertilizing)?
New ‘Blonde Ambition’ (Bouteloua gracilis)
Green Thumb Research and Experimentation
Researching plants before purchasing them will help you to avoid potential problems. But often the best way to learn how a plant will do is to grow them yourself.
Of course, it’s never a good idea to put a shade-loving plant in full sun, or vice versa as you’ll probably be replacing it soon.
As a horticulturist, I experiment in my garden with newer plants that have come onto the market. Several years ago, I planted several ‘Blonde Ambition’(Bouteloua gracilis) grasses. I had heard a few different tips about how to grow them and the best exposure – one says that filtered sun is a must while another person says it can handle full sun. So, I am trying them out in my front yard to see for myself where they will receive filtered shade until the afternoon when they will be blasted by the sun. UPDATE – they do best in full sun 🙂
*One fun bonus of being a horticulturist is that growers often send plants for free so I can try them and give them feedback about how they grow in a low-desert garden.
The Role of Nearby Trees
A new Parry’s penstemon (Penstemon parryi) finds a home next to my gopher plant (Euphorbia biglandulosa).
Other things that can affect how new plants will do are nearby plants – specifically trees.
One month later.
A tree that creates dense shade will make it difficult for many flowering plants to do anything but grow foliage at the expense of flowers. However, filtered shade from desert natives such as mesquite and palo verde create an ideal environment for many blooming plants that enjoy a little respite from the full sun.
New varieties of autumn sage with the brand new lavender ‘Meerlo’.
Unpredictable Nature of Gardening
Sometimes, there isn’t much information available on new plant introductions and how they will do in an area with extreme weather such as our hot, dry one. In this area, a grower sent me plants to see how they would fare in a low desert garden. From past experience, I knew that salvia would need some shade, but the lavender was a mystery. I’ve seen some other species of lavender doing well in full sun while others doing well in filtered shade.
As you can see, the ‘Meerlo’ lavender did very well in my zone 9 garden even though the actual information on the plant tag states that it does best in zone 8 and below.
Green Thumb Lessons
This is a lesson that I could have only learned by trying out this plant in my garden. While it could have died, it didn’t and I’ve learned from the experience, which adds to my overall garden knowledge.
So, the next time you find a dead plant in your garden, see if you can figure out why it died and learn from it. Sometimes plants die when they should be thriving for no apparent reason. Nature isn’t always predictable and sometimes you may have no answers, but you’ll be surprised at what you can learn, and before you know it, your thumb may slowly turn ‘green’.
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One of spring’s many joys are the fields of wildflowers that we often see growing along the side of the road. It is one of the many miracles of nature how such lovely flowers can grow in the wild without any help from people.
I find it kind of ironic that if we want to grow these flowers of the wild in our own garden we have to give them a little assistance to get them going. But, the preparation is fairly simple and the rewards are definitely well worth the effort.
Arroyo lupine with white gaura
Planting for a Spring Show
To achieve a breathtaking spring wildflower display, it’s crucial to plan ahead. When it comes to wildflowers, autumn emerges as the ideal time for sowing seeds that will later burst into vibrant spring blooms. This strategic timing allows the seeds to establish strong root systems during the cooler months, ensuring they’re well-prepared to flourish when spring’s gentle warmth and longer days arrive.
So, as summer transitions into fall, seize the opportunity to sow the seeds of nature’s beauty in your garden, and you’ll be rewarded with a picturesque wildflower spectacle come springtime.
Lessons from a First Wildflower Garden
I’ve planted wildflower gardens throughout my career, but I’ll never forget my first one. It was on a golf course and I sowed quite a bit of wildflower seed in that small area – and I mean a LOT of seed. The wildflowers were growing so thickly together and probably would have looked nicer if I had used less seed and/or thinned them out a little once they started to grow. But, I loved that little wildflower garden.
Embrace Wildflowers in Your Garden
If you have a fondness for wildflowers and the enchanting beauty they bring, consider carving out a dedicated space within your garden to cultivate your own captivating wildflower haven. By allocating a portion of your garden to these lovely, untamed blooms, you not only embrace the allure of the wild but also foster a unique and vibrant ecosystem right in your backyard.
With some thoughtful planning and care, you can create a harmonious blend of native or adapted wildflowers that not only adds natural charm but also supports local pollinators and wildlife. So, why not embark on the journey of nurturing your personal wildflower oasis and experience the wonders of nature’s artistry up close?
**Do you have a favorite wildflower?
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As summer begins to slowly fade and the heat begins to dissipate, the Southwestern garden comes alive with second spring.
In the absence of scorching 100+ degree temperatures, both plants and people reawaken to the vibrant beauty of the desert landscape during the fall season.
The Allure of Autumn is “Second Spring”
When people talk about their favorite season, many will tell you that spring is the time that they enjoy the most as their gardens come alive, spring forth with new green growth and colorful blooms. But in the desert Southwest, there’s another season that deserves just as much acclaim – fall, often referred to as the “second spring.”
Sky Flower (Duranta erecta)
While spring is a glorious time in the desert landscape with winter blooms overlapping with spring flowering plants along with cactus flowers – it isn’t the only ‘spring’ that the desert experiences.
A Season of Renewal
Fall in the desert brings a rejuvenating touch. The cooler temperatures breathe new life into plants, coaxing them into refreshed appearances and prolonging their flowering displays. Irrigation becomes less of a chore. Birds, butterflies, and various wildlife also make a prominent return during the daytime hours.
The Great Outdoors Beckons
With the arrival of fall, desert residents find themselves irresistibly drawn outdoors. Whether it’s leisurely walks, al fresco dining, or simply working outdoors, the comfortable temperatures and captivating landscapes make every moment spent outside a delight.
Fall is the ideal season for making alterations to your garden. It’s the perfect time to replace thirsty, old plants with drought-tolerant alternatives or expand your outdoor living space by adding new features like patios or pergolas.
Flame Acanthus (Anisacanthus quadrifidus v. wrightii)
Second Spring Planting for the Future
Regardless of your garden’s location, fall stands as the prime season for introducing new plants to your landscape. With three growing seasons ahead, it offers them the opportunity to establish robust root systems before the next scorching summer arrives.
No matter what garden region you live in – second spring is the best time of year to add new plants to the landscape as it provides plants with three seasons in which to grow a good root system before the heat of the next summer arrives.
**Thinking of making some changes to your landscape? Click herefor a list my favorite drought tolerant plants that provide fall blooms.
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Tips for Fertilizing Cactus and Succulents in Containers
Many of you appreciate the beauty and the low-maintenance of using succulents (including cactus) in containers
Container filled with ‘Sticks on Fire’ Euphorbia and Elephant’s Food (Portulacaria afra)
With succulents coming in a myriad of colors and unique shapes, they add welcome beauty to our outdoor spaces.
Photo: Blue Elf Aloe (Aloe x ‘Blue Elf’)
While using succulents, (as opposed to flowering annuals) in containers are a more low-maintenance option, they do need regular applications of fertilizer.
Photo: Golden Barrel Cactus (Echinocactus grusonii)
Importance of Fertilizing Container Succulents
Succulents grown in the ground get their nutrients from the surrounding soil. Micro-organisms in the soil are constantly breaking down organic matter, which adds nutrients.
However, the soil in pots doesn’t undergo this process and whatever plant you grow, need supplemental nutrients in the form of fertilizer.
This is even true of cactus and other succulents.
Lady’s Slipper (Pedilanthus macrocarpus)
Photo: Lady’s Slipper (Pedilanthus macrocarpus)
How to Fertilize Succulents in Containers
So how do you go about fertilizing succulents in containers?
1. Type of fertilizer for succulents
You can use a liquid, low-nitrogen fertilizer or go for the organic option of fish emulsion.
2. How often to fertilize cactus and succulents in containers
I like to use a slow-release fertilizer such as Osmocote, applying every 3 months, at 1/2 the recommended strength on the package. If you prefer using a liquid fertilizer, you can use a product such as Fame Organic Garden Fertilizer, which should be applied monthly beginning in mid-spring to late summer.
3. When to fertilize your container succulents
Apply every three months when using a slow-release fertilizer or monthly with a liquid fertilizer. Do this beginning in spring, once the threat of frost has finished in your area. Cacti and succulents don’t need fertilizer in winter.
Potted succulents
I have a container filled with three different succulents by my front door and I love how it looks and how easy they are to care for. I encourage you to use succulents in containers, which is a great way to add unique beauty to your garden with little fuss!
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A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to take another photo of a landscape I passed by in a neighborhood where I had just finished up a landscape consultation. I was shocked at the mushroom shaped shrubs.
The Pitfalls of Shrub Pruning Mistakes
Sadly, I often see examples of truly ‘interesting’ or should I say ‘bad’ pruning. I drove by this landscape and then made a U-turn so that I could take a quick photo…
Shrub pruning
I don’t know about you, but these Texas sage shrubs look like mushrooms, don’t you think?
Sadly, pruning these beautiful flowering shrubs this way robs them of their flowers, increases maintenance, creates dead wood, and shortens their life.
Misguided Pruning in Strange Shapes
While there are quite a few shrubs that take well to repeated formal pruning – doing this to flowering shrubs should be avoided.
I must admit that I have seen Texas sage and other flowering shrubs pruned into many different shapes…
But, let me be frank – shrubs aren’t meant to be cupcakes, frisbees, or gumdrops
Why You Should Avoid Improper Shrub Pruning
Here are just a few reasons why…
1. Energy Deprivation
It removes the leaves needed for the shrub to make energy for itself
2. Increased Growth and Maintenance
Excessive pruning actually makes your shrubs grow faster, which equals MORE maintenance
3. Water Demands
Shrubs pruned often require more water as they constantly work to replace foliage lost
4. Shortened Lifespan
Continued shearing will shorten the lifespan of your shrubs
5. Aesthetic Impact
Green ‘blobs’ are ugly compared to beautiful flowering shrubs
Join Our Online Shrub Pruning Workshop
If you are tired of the time and money it takes to maintain flowering shrubs the ‘wrong’ way. I invite you to join me in my online shrub pruning workshopwhere I will teach you the right way to prune.
Imagine your outdoor space filled with beautiful, flowering shrubs instead of green ‘balls’. Believe it or not, the shrubs in the photo above are the SAME plant – they have just been maintained differently. The one on the left takes much more money and time and the other thrives with pruning once (or twice) a year.
In my online class, I show you how to work with your landscaper or how you can take care of your shrubs yourself. Got ‘green balls’ already in your landscape? I’ll teach you how to rejuvenate them and the best time of year to do it.
So, ditch the ‘green blobs’ in your yard and learn how to prune with confidence – it’s much easier than you think. Learn morehere and what students have to say about the class.
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Exploring the Beauty of the Desert Museum Palo Verde
‘Desert Museum’ Palo Verde Trees
The Desert Museum Palo Verde (Parkinsonia ‘Desert Museum’), a beloved tree in arid climates, graces numerous residential, commercial, and community landscapes. Its striking medium-green trunk, feathery foliage, and golden late spring flowers contribute to its widespread popularity. While wind damage can be a concern, proper care and selection can ensure these trees thrive.
Fallen ‘Desert Museum’ Palo Verde trees after a monsoon storm
These wonderful trees stand as a captivating addition to arid landscapes. Its medium-green trunk, delicate foliage, and vibrant late-spring blooms make it a cherished choice for many. However, understanding and addressing potential wind damage is crucial for their successful growth.
Understanding Wind Damage Concerns
One common hesitation in planting palo verde trees is their perceived susceptibility to wind damage. However, most issues arise from improper maintenance, unsuitable locations, or the selection of the wrong tree type within the Palo Verde family.
Desert Museum Palo Verde tree in my backyard
Personal Success with Desert Museum Palo Verde
I have three of these Palo Verdes around my house. They range in age from 10 to 20 years old. In all that time, I have not lost a single one. While minor branch breakage occurred at times, these resilient trees quickly recovered, showcasing the hardiness of this species.
So, how can you enjoy the beauty of this tree while lessening the danger of wind damage? As a retired certified arborist, I’m here to tell you that there are definitely things you can do.
5 Strategies for Structurally Healthy ‘Desert Museum’ Palo Verdes Trees
1. Water deeply to a depth of 3 feet.
Deep roots are key to the stability of a tree and also decrease the chance of uplifting roots. Apply water toward the outer reaches of the branches where the roots are concentrated. As a tree grows, its roots move outward, so move your drip emitters or hose as needed.
Be sure to plant in an area where there is adequate area for root growth. Parking lot islands and narrow areas don’t allow enough room for roots to anchor the tree.
‘Desert Museum’ palo verde that has grown too rapidly due to excess irrigation
2. Irrigate less frequently to avoid your tree growing too fast.
This is a big cause of wind damage with palo verde trees. It’s important to remember that they are desert trees and don’t need as much water as other plants in the landscape. But, people often overwater their desert trees, which causes them to grow too quickly. This causes the formation of weak wood because they haven’t had the time to grow strong trunks and branches. In the photo above, notice how thin the multiple trunks are.
Established native desert trees, that have been in the ground for at least 3 years, can follow these general guidelines – water 1 to 2X a month in spring/fall, 2 to 3X a month in summer, and monthly in winter. These guidelines are for our current drought situation but can be modified as needed.
Trees that have been pruned up too high (lion-tailing)
3. Prune your tree correctly.
There are examples of awful pruning. One common one is known as ‘lion-tailing’ which is when trees have been over-pruned so the majority of the tree is devoid of branches except for the very top. This pruning deprives the branches of foliage needed to produce energy for the tree and to increase tree strength. It also increases the amount of overhanging branches toward the top making the tree more likely to fall.
Many landscapers don’t know the right way to prune trees and can inadvertently cause harm to your tree. I highly recommend enlisting the services of a certified arborist to prune your tree correctly.
4. Select a multi-trunk form of Palo Verde instead of one growing on a single trunk.
Desert trees naturally in a multiple trunk form, which distributes the weight of the upper branches. Palo Verde trees that have been trained to grow on a single trunk, are under more stress from the wind with their heavy top half. The majority that you see fallen have been trained into a single-trunk tree.
This tree needs pruning before the monsoon season to lessen the weight of the canopy
5. ‘Desert Museum’ Palo Verde trees generally need pruning at least once (sometimes twice) a year.
You want to be sure to prune them before the onset of monsoon season – removing any heavyweight or branches that are weakly attached.
Newly-pruned ‘Desert Museum’ palo verde tree ready for the monsoon season
Ensuring the Future of Your Desert Museum Palo Verde
Desert Museum Palo Verde trees are a valuable asset to desert gardens, offering beauty and shade. By following these tips, you can safeguard your tree’s health and stability for years to come. Join me in celebrating the enduring allure of these magnificent desert trees.
Want to learn more about this and other Palo Verde tree species? Check out my previous blog post here.
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Have you ever had a sunburn? Maybe a better question is, “Who hasn’t?”
Well, did you know that many plants get too much as well?
Sunburned Citrus: A Common Concern
On a recent visit to a client who was worried about her newly planted citrus trees.
Sunburned Citrus
The Leaf Yellowing Dilemma on Citrus Trees
This particular client has a large courtyard with several new citrus trees in pots. Her citrus trees, planted in spring, showed yellowing as summer progressed.
Now yellow leaves can indicate a number of different problems. In this case, the diagnosis was rather simple – her citrus tree has a case of sunburn.
Common Signs of Sunburned Citrus and Other Plants
– The areas of the leaf that are yellow are in the center and NOT along the tips or edges.
– Often, the yellow areas begin to turn brown.
– Signs normally occur in the summer months.
– The sunburned leaves are usually located on the south and west-facing parts of the plant.
– This particular citrus tree is in an area that receives reflected, afternoon sun.
How to Prevent Sunburned Citrus
In this case, the solution is simple. Move the citrus tree to another part of the courtyard that receives afternoon shade is all that is needed to prevent further sunburn damage. Another choice is to put 50% shade cloth on from mid-May through September.
Citrus do best when planted at least 10 – 15 ft. away from walls. Unfortunately walls absorb the heat of the day and re-radiate it out.
Avoid planting where they get the full force of afternoon sun.
https://www.azplantlady.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/sunburned_citrus_leavesJun302C20152C9-36AM.jpg640478arizonaplantlady@gmail.comhttp://www.azplantlady.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/favicon.pngarizonaplantlady@gmail.com2021-07-06 07:48:002023-09-25 15:20:17Sunburned Citrus: Common Signs of Sun Damage
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5 Ways to Save Water in the Dry Climate Garden
desert gardeningLess water doesn’t mean a boring garden. Here are 5 tips for a beautiful, dry climate garden that saves water.
What’s Chewing On My Leaves?
Arizona garden, AZ Plant Lady, California desert garden, desert gardening, Landscape Problems, Nevada garden, New Mexico garden, Perennial, Roses in the Desert, Shrubs, Southwest gardenHave you ever noticed circular areas missing from your leaves? If so, you aren’t alone. The other day I noticed several of my plants with neat semi-circular sections missing. But, was I worried? Nope, and I’ll tell you why in my latest garden video.
The Enigmatic Damage to Leaves
A Puzzling Leaf Discovery
Noelle: Hey there, fellow garden enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a bit of a mystery. As I was strolling through my garden, I couldn’t help but notice something quite peculiar – several of my plant leaves had neat, semi-circular sections missing. Now, I know this might raise some alarms for many gardeners, but fear not, for I’m here to share some insights and reassure you that it’s not as ominous as it might seem.
Noelle: First things first, let’s take a closer look at these mysterious leaf patterns. You can see here on this rosebush, there’s a semi-circular chunk missing from one of the leaves. And over here on this hibiscus, another one. So, what’s going on? Is it some nefarious garden pest?
The Twist in the Tale of Leaves
Noelle: Well, here’s the twist – it’s not a pest at all! In fact, this leaf damage is quite natural and not something to fret over.
You see, the culprits behind these neat, semi-circular holes are none other than the remarkable leafcutter bees. Leafcutter bees are a type of solitary bee, and they are truly fantastic pollinators. What might appear as leaf vandalism is, in fact, a vital part of their unique nesting process.
Leafcutter bees utilize these semi-circular leaf sections to construct their nests. If you take a closer look, you might even spot some of these leaf sections tucked away in the nooks and crannies of your garden.
The Precision of Leafcutter Bees
Meticulous Craftsmen
Noelle: Leafcutter bees are known for their precision. They cut these perfect curves from the edges of leaves, and they’re surprisingly meticulous about it. The remarkable thing is that these bees aren’t interested in damaging your plants; they’re simply striving to build a safe and cozy space for their offspring.
Beneficial Garden Partners
Noelle: Now, here’s the best part – these bees are great for your garden! As they visit your plants to collect nectar and pollen, they’re inadvertently pollinating your flowers. This pollination process is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy garden ecosystem.
Embrace the Leaf Patterns
A New Perspective
Noelle: So, the next time you come across these mysterious leaf patterns, don’t panic. Instead, take a moment to appreciate the hard work of these industrious leafcutter bees and the positive impact they have on your garden.
Thanks for joining me on this little garden mystery journey. If you enjoyed learning about leafcutter bees and want to see more fascinating garden insights, don’t forget to hit that subscribe button and give this video a thumbs up. Happy gardening!
In summary, the seemingly mysterious leaf damage caused by leafcutter bees is nothing to worry about. These industrious pollinators are beneficial to your garden, and their leaf-cutting activities are just part of their nesting process. So, next time you spot these neat, semi-circular holes in your leaves, remember to appreciate the role of leafcutter bees in your garden’s ecosystem. Happy gardening!
Has this happened in your garden? What plants were affected?
A Front Garden (NOT a Yard)
azplantlady, Southwest gardenExploring My Front Garden: More Than Just a Yard
Do you have a front garden adorned with perennials and succulents, or do you simply call it a front yard? Personally, I prefer not to refer to the front area of a home as a mere ‘yard’. The definition of the word ‘yard‘ is “a piece of ground adjoining a building or house.”
A Burst of Color from Perennials and Succulents
Now, while I do have a piece of ground adjoining my house – it is so much more than that.
The piece of ground is filled with trees, shrubs, perennials, and succulents, which in my opinion makes it not a ‘yard’ BUT a ‘garden’.
So, I thought that I would show you a little of what is growing in my front ‘garden’….
Blooming Beauties: Firecracker Penstemon and White Gaura
This time of year, my firecracker penstemon (Penstemon eatonii) is in full bloom, much to the delight of bees and hummingbirds.
This tough perennial blooms January through April in my zone 9a garden. In cooler climates, it will flower in the summer.
Underneath the front window, lies a row of white gaura (Gaura lindheimeri), which flowers in spring and fall. This perennial is hardy to zone 5.
Embracing the World of Agave, Alongside Perennials and Succulents
Agave are my favorite type of succulent and I have several different types in my garden.
This one is near the front entry and is called artichoke agave (Agave parryi ‘truncata’).
It is a medium-sized agave and can grow in zones 7 and up.
As you can see, it has produced some offsets (babies, pups, volunteers). They are attached to the mother plant by a underground stem.
I have taken several of the offsets and replanted them around my garden…
This one was planted 2 years ago from the mother plant.
It is easy to take offsets and plant them in other areas in the garden. I wrote about it a few years ago and you can read it here.
The Charm of Globe Mallow in Various Shades
In late winter, I am always impatient to see my globe mallow begin to show the first glimpse of color peeking through.
I have several globe mallow plants and each one produces a different-colored flower.
Here is my pink globe mallow.
And it’s neighbor, which has white flowers.
This globe mallow has vibrant, red flowers and is located on the other side of my front garden landscape with other perennials and succulents.
While I love all of my globe mallow flowers, I think that the pink are my favorite…
The most common color of globe mallow is orange. But, as you can see, there are other colors available.
Agave Wonders: Octopus Agave and Victoria Agave
I mentioned that I had a few different species of agave in my garden.
This is my largest one, which is called octopus agave (Agave vilmoriniana).
I raised this agave from a tiny pup (bulbil) from the flowering stem of its mother, who I had grown in a large pot.
This agave has a tropical look with its curvy leaves and does best in areas with filtered or afternoon shade.
Victoria agave (Agave victoria-reginae) was named for Queen Victoria.
This smaller agave has a very distinctive look and is highly-desired, which makes it rather expensive.
I was given the largest one in the photo, above, by a client and it has since gone on to produce many babies for me.
A Twist on Lantana with a Splash of Color
Some people may think that lantana is overused in the landscape with perennials and succulents, but I like to put a twist on the traditional lantana.
There is a lantana called ‘Lavender Lace’ that produces both purple and white flowers on the same plant. BUT, it can be hard to find and is expensive.
So, I create the same look by planting both a purple and a white trailing lantana in the same hole.
Succulents Adding Texture to the Garden
My favorite types of plants are flowering shrubs and groundcovers. However, I like the different textures that succulents add to my front garden.
So, I have green desert spoon (Dasylirion acrotriche) on both sides in the front. This species of desert spoon has a darker-green color then the gray/blue leaves of regular desert spoon.
Valentine: A Favorite Flowering Shrub
Finally, I’d like to finish with my favorite flowering shrub, Valentine whose red blooms began to appear at Christmas and will last through April.
*********************
I hope you enjoyed this partial tour of my front garden. I do have trees and other plants growing, but because they are dormant in winter, I will show you them in the future, once they are looking their best.
Behind Every Green Thumb Are a Trail of Dead Plants
Arizona garden, desert gardening, Horticulturist, Landscape Problems, Perennial, Shrubs, Southwest gardenA ‘Painted Lady’ butterfly drinking nectar from a lantana.
Learning from Mistakes in the Garden: A Green Thumb’s Journey
Embracing the Reality of Gardening
Do you know someone who has a green thumb? Usually, it’s someone with a beautiful garden that stands out among their neighbors with thriving plants that flourish.
While you may think people with green thumbs are born and not made, I’ll let you in on a BIG secret – behind every green thumb is a trail of many dead plants.
Behind the Scenes of a Green Thumb
It’s true. There isn’t a single experienced gardener who has never had a plant die in their garden. Of course, someone with a green thumb may be hesitant to reveal this fact, and you may not notice because dead or failing plants are usually pulled out before people notice.
I’m not exempt from this either – I’ve had many plants die on my watch.
Newly planted ‘Blue Bell’ (Eremophila hygrophana) shrubs
Factors That Affect Plant Health and Your Green Thumb
Believe it or not, the fact that plants die in your garden helps you to become better at growing them. While your first inclination may be to get frustrated about the loss of a plant, look at it as a gardening lesson instead.
“Every dead plant is an opportunity to learn about what went wrong and how to avoid it in the future and become a better gardener in the process.”
There are several factors that can affect whether or not a plant does well. These include the following:
1. Climate Adaptation
Is it well-adapted to your climate?
2. Proper Exposure
Was it planted in the right exposure (sun, filtered sun, or shade)?
3. Irrigation Needs
Did it receive the proper amount of irrigation?
4. Maintenance Practices
Was it maintained correctly (pruning, fertilizing)?
New ‘Blonde Ambition’ (Bouteloua gracilis)
Green Thumb Research and Experimentation
Researching plants before purchasing them will help you to avoid potential problems. But often the best way to learn how a plant will do is to grow them yourself.
Of course, it’s never a good idea to put a shade-loving plant in full sun, or vice versa as you’ll probably be replacing it soon.
As a horticulturist, I experiment in my garden with newer plants that have come onto the market. Several years ago, I planted several ‘Blonde Ambition’ (Bouteloua gracilis) grasses. I had heard a few different tips about how to grow them and the best exposure – one says that filtered sun is a must while another person says it can handle full sun. So, I am trying them out in my front yard to see for myself where they will receive filtered shade until the afternoon when they will be blasted by the sun. UPDATE – they do best in full sun 🙂
*One fun bonus of being a horticulturist is that growers often send plants for free so I can try them and give them feedback about how they grow in a low-desert garden.
The Role of Nearby Trees
A new Parry’s penstemon (Penstemon parryi) finds a home next to my gopher plant (Euphorbia biglandulosa).
Other things that can affect how new plants will do are nearby plants – specifically trees.
One month later.
A tree that creates dense shade will make it difficult for many flowering plants to do anything but grow foliage at the expense of flowers. However, filtered shade from desert natives such as mesquite and palo verde create an ideal environment for many blooming plants that enjoy a little respite from the full sun.
New varieties of autumn sage with the brand new lavender ‘Meerlo’.
Unpredictable Nature of Gardening
Sometimes, there isn’t much information available on new plant introductions and how they will do in an area with extreme weather such as our hot, dry one. In this area, a grower sent me plants to see how they would fare in a low desert garden. From past experience, I knew that salvia would need some shade, but the lavender was a mystery. I’ve seen some other species of lavender doing well in full sun while others doing well in filtered shade.
As you can see, the ‘Meerlo’ lavender did very well in my zone 9 garden even though the actual information on the plant tag states that it does best in zone 8 and below.
Green Thumb Lessons
This is a lesson that I could have only learned by trying out this plant in my garden. While it could have died, it didn’t and I’ve learned from the experience, which adds to my overall garden knowledge.
So, the next time you find a dead plant in your garden, see if you can figure out why it died and learn from it. Sometimes plants die when they should be thriving for no apparent reason. Nature isn’t always predictable and sometimes you may have no answers, but you’ll be surprised at what you can learn, and before you know it, your thumb may slowly turn ‘green’.
Fuss-Free Plants for Fall Planting
Sow Wildflower Seed in Fall for a Gorgeous Spring Display
Arizona garden, California desert garden, desert gardening, Flowering Annuals, Las Vegas gardening, New Mexico garden, Southwest garden, WildflowersCalifornia bluebells and red flax
Cultivating Wildflowers: Nature’s Colorful Display
The Beauty of Spring Wildflowers
One of spring’s many joys are the fields of wildflowers that we often see growing along the side of the road. It is one of the many miracles of nature how such lovely flowers can grow in the wild without any help from people.
I find it kind of ironic that if we want to grow these flowers of the wild in our own garden we have to give them a little assistance to get them going. But, the preparation is fairly simple and the rewards are definitely well worth the effort.
Arroyo lupine with white gaura
Planting for a Spring Show
To achieve a breathtaking spring wildflower display, it’s crucial to plan ahead. When it comes to wildflowers, autumn emerges as the ideal time for sowing seeds that will later burst into vibrant spring blooms. This strategic timing allows the seeds to establish strong root systems during the cooler months, ensuring they’re well-prepared to flourish when spring’s gentle warmth and longer days arrive.
So, as summer transitions into fall, seize the opportunity to sow the seeds of nature’s beauty in your garden, and you’ll be rewarded with a picturesque wildflower spectacle come springtime.
Lessons from a First Wildflower Garden
I’ve planted wildflower gardens throughout my career, but I’ll never forget my first one. It was on a golf course and I sowed quite a bit of wildflower seed in that small area – and I mean a LOT of seed. The wildflowers were growing so thickly together and probably would have looked nicer if I had used less seed and/or thinned them out a little once they started to grow. But, I loved that little wildflower garden.
Embrace Wildflowers in Your Garden
If you have a fondness for wildflowers and the enchanting beauty they bring, consider carving out a dedicated space within your garden to cultivate your own captivating wildflower haven. By allocating a portion of your garden to these lovely, untamed blooms, you not only embrace the allure of the wild but also foster a unique and vibrant ecosystem right in your backyard.
With some thoughtful planning and care, you can create a harmonious blend of native or adapted wildflowers that not only adds natural charm but also supports local pollinators and wildlife. So, why not embark on the journey of nurturing your personal wildflower oasis and experience the wonders of nature’s artistry up close?
**Do you have a favorite wildflower?
Celebrating “Second Spring” in the Southwest Garden
Arizona, Arizona garden, Cactus/Succulents, California, California desert garden, desert gardening, Southwest garden, Southwest Texas gardenCultivating Wildflowers: Nature’s Colorful Display
Rediscovering the Desert’s Beauty in Fall
As summer begins to slowly fade and the heat begins to dissipate, the Southwestern garden comes alive with second spring.
In the absence of scorching 100+ degree temperatures, both plants and people reawaken to the vibrant beauty of the desert landscape during the fall season.
The Allure of Autumn is “Second Spring”
When people talk about their favorite season, many will tell you that spring is the time that they enjoy the most as their gardens come alive, spring forth with new green growth and colorful blooms. But in the desert Southwest, there’s another season that deserves just as much acclaim – fall, often referred to as the “second spring.”
Sky Flower (Duranta erecta)
While spring is a glorious time in the desert landscape with winter blooms overlapping with spring flowering plants along with cactus flowers – it isn’t the only ‘spring’ that the desert experiences.
A Season of Renewal
Fall in the desert brings a rejuvenating touch. The cooler temperatures breathe new life into plants, coaxing them into refreshed appearances and prolonging their flowering displays. Irrigation becomes less of a chore. Birds, butterflies, and various wildlife also make a prominent return during the daytime hours.
The Great Outdoors Beckons
With the arrival of fall, desert residents find themselves irresistibly drawn outdoors. Whether it’s leisurely walks, al fresco dining, or simply working outdoors, the comfortable temperatures and captivating landscapes make every moment spent outside a delight.
Fall is the ideal season for making alterations to your garden. It’s the perfect time to replace thirsty, old plants with drought-tolerant alternatives or expand your outdoor living space by adding new features like patios or pergolas.
Flame Acanthus (Anisacanthus quadrifidus v. wrightii)
Second Spring Planting for the Future
Regardless of your garden’s location, fall stands as the prime season for introducing new plants to your landscape. With three growing seasons ahead, it offers them the opportunity to establish robust root systems before the next scorching summer arrives.
No matter what garden region you live in – second spring is the best time of year to add new plants to the landscape as it provides plants with three seasons in which to grow a good root system before the heat of the next summer arrives.
**Thinking of making some changes to your landscape? Click here for a list my favorite drought tolerant plants that provide fall blooms.
How to Fertilize Cactus and Succulents in Containers
Cactus/SucculentsFertilize Cactus and Succulents in Containers
Tips for Fertilizing Cactus and Succulents in Containers
Many of you appreciate the beauty and the low-maintenance of using succulents (including cactus) in containers
With succulents coming in a myriad of colors and unique shapes, they add welcome beauty to our outdoor spaces.
Photo: Blue Elf Aloe (Aloe x ‘Blue Elf’)
While using succulents, (as opposed to flowering annuals) in containers are a more low-maintenance option, they do need regular applications of fertilizer.
Photo: Golden Barrel Cactus (Echinocactus grusonii)
Importance of Fertilizing Container Succulents
Succulents grown in the ground get their nutrients from the surrounding soil. Micro-organisms in the soil are constantly breaking down organic matter, which adds nutrients.
However, the soil in pots doesn’t undergo this process and whatever plant you grow, need supplemental nutrients in the form of fertilizer.
This is even true of cactus and other succulents.
Photo: Lady’s Slipper (Pedilanthus macrocarpus)
How to Fertilize Succulents in Containers
So how do you go about fertilizing succulents in containers?
1. Type of fertilizer for succulents
You can use a liquid, low-nitrogen fertilizer or go for the organic option of fish emulsion.
2. How often to fertilize cactus and succulents in containers
I like to use a slow-release fertilizer such as Osmocote, applying every 3 months, at 1/2 the recommended strength on the package. If you prefer using a liquid fertilizer, you can use a product such as Fame Organic Garden Fertilizer, which should be applied monthly beginning in mid-spring to late summer.
3. When to fertilize your container succulents
Apply every three months when using a slow-release fertilizer or monthly with a liquid fertilizer. Do this beginning in spring, once the threat of frost has finished in your area. Cacti and succulents don’t need fertilizer in winter.
I have a container filled with three different succulents by my front door and I love how it looks and how easy they are to care for. I encourage you to use succulents in containers, which is a great way to add unique beauty to your garden with little fuss!
The Importance of Proper Shrub Pruning
Arizona garden, AZ Plant Lady Classes, California desert garden, desert gardening, Landscape Problems, Nevada garden, Pruning, ShrubsA few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to take another photo of a landscape I passed by in a neighborhood where I had just finished up a landscape consultation. I was shocked at the mushroom shaped shrubs.
The Pitfalls of Shrub Pruning Mistakes
Sadly, I often see examples of truly ‘interesting’ or should I say ‘bad’ pruning. I drove by this landscape and then made a U-turn so that I could take a quick photo…
Shrub pruning
I don’t know about you, but these Texas sage shrubs look like mushrooms, don’t you think?
Sadly, pruning these beautiful flowering shrubs this way robs them of their flowers, increases maintenance, creates dead wood, and shortens their life.
Misguided Pruning in Strange Shapes
While there are quite a few shrubs that take well to repeated formal pruning – doing this to flowering shrubs should be avoided.
I must admit that I have seen Texas sage and other flowering shrubs pruned into many different shapes…
But, let me be frank – shrubs aren’t meant to be cupcakes, frisbees, or gumdrops
Why You Should Avoid Improper Shrub Pruning
Here are just a few reasons why…
1. Energy Deprivation
It removes the leaves needed for the shrub to make energy for itself
2. Increased Growth and Maintenance
Excessive pruning actually makes your shrubs grow faster, which equals MORE maintenance
3. Water Demands
Shrubs pruned often require more water as they constantly work to replace foliage lost
4. Shortened Lifespan
Continued shearing will shorten the lifespan of your shrubs
5. Aesthetic Impact
Green ‘blobs’ are ugly compared to beautiful flowering shrubs
Join Our Online Shrub Pruning Workshop
If you are tired of the time and money it takes to maintain flowering shrubs the ‘wrong’ way. I invite you to join me in my online shrub pruning workshop where I will teach you the right way to prune.
Imagine your outdoor space filled with beautiful, flowering shrubs instead of green ‘balls’. Believe it or not, the shrubs in the photo above are the SAME plant – they have just been maintained differently. The one on the left takes much more money and time and the other thrives with pruning once (or twice) a year.
In my online class, I show you how to work with your landscaper or how you can take care of your shrubs yourself. Got ‘green balls’ already in your landscape? I’ll teach you how to rejuvenate them and the best time of year to do it.
So, ditch the ‘green blobs’ in your yard and learn how to prune with confidence – it’s much easier than you think. Learn more here and what students have to say about the class.
Avoiding Storm Damage – Desert Museum Palo Verde Trees
Arizona garden, California desert garden, desert gardening, Landscape Problems, Las Vegas gardening, Pruning, Southwest garden, TreesExploring the Beauty of the Desert Museum Palo Verde
‘Desert Museum’ Palo Verde Trees
The Desert Museum Palo Verde (Parkinsonia ‘Desert Museum’), a beloved tree in arid climates, graces numerous residential, commercial, and community landscapes. Its striking medium-green trunk, feathery foliage, and golden late spring flowers contribute to its widespread popularity. While wind damage can be a concern, proper care and selection can ensure these trees thrive.
Fallen ‘Desert Museum’ Palo Verde trees after a monsoon storm
These wonderful trees stand as a captivating addition to arid landscapes. Its medium-green trunk, delicate foliage, and vibrant late-spring blooms make it a cherished choice for many. However, understanding and addressing potential wind damage is crucial for their successful growth.
Understanding Wind Damage Concerns
One common hesitation in planting palo verde trees is their perceived susceptibility to wind damage. However, most issues arise from improper maintenance, unsuitable locations, or the selection of the wrong tree type within the Palo Verde family.
Desert Museum Palo Verde tree in my backyard
Personal Success with Desert Museum Palo Verde
I have three of these Palo Verdes around my house. They range in age from 10 to 20 years old. In all that time, I have not lost a single one. While minor branch breakage occurred at times, these resilient trees quickly recovered, showcasing the hardiness of this species.
So, how can you enjoy the beauty of this tree while lessening the danger of wind damage? As a retired certified arborist, I’m here to tell you that there are definitely things you can do.
5 Strategies for Structurally Healthy ‘Desert Museum’ Palo Verdes Trees
1. Water deeply to a depth of 3 feet.
Deep roots are key to the stability of a tree and also decrease the chance of uplifting roots. Apply water toward the outer reaches of the branches where the roots are concentrated. As a tree grows, its roots move outward, so move your drip emitters or hose as needed.
Be sure to plant in an area where there is adequate area for root growth. Parking lot islands and narrow areas don’t allow enough room for roots to anchor the tree.
‘Desert Museum’ palo verde that has grown too rapidly due to excess irrigation
2. Irrigate less frequently to avoid your tree growing too fast.
This is a big cause of wind damage with palo verde trees. It’s important to remember that they are desert trees and don’t need as much water as other plants in the landscape. But, people often overwater their desert trees, which causes them to grow too quickly. This causes the formation of weak wood because they haven’t had the time to grow strong trunks and branches. In the photo above, notice how thin the multiple trunks are.
Established native desert trees, that have been in the ground for at least 3 years, can follow these general guidelines – water 1 to 2X a month in spring/fall, 2 to 3X a month in summer, and monthly in winter. These guidelines are for our current drought situation but can be modified as needed.
Trees that have been pruned up too high (lion-tailing)
3. Prune your tree correctly.
There are examples of awful pruning. One common one is known as ‘lion-tailing’ which is when trees have been over-pruned so the majority of the tree is devoid of branches except for the very top. This pruning deprives the branches of foliage needed to produce energy for the tree and to increase tree strength. It also increases the amount of overhanging branches toward the top making the tree more likely to fall.
Many landscapers don’t know the right way to prune trees and can inadvertently cause harm to your tree. I highly recommend enlisting the services of a certified arborist to prune your tree correctly.
4. Select a multi-trunk form of Palo Verde instead of one growing on a single trunk.
Desert trees naturally in a multiple trunk form, which distributes the weight of the upper branches. Palo Verde trees that have been trained to grow on a single trunk, are under more stress from the wind with their heavy top half. The majority that you see fallen have been trained into a single-trunk tree.
This tree needs pruning before the monsoon season to lessen the weight of the canopy
5. ‘Desert Museum’ Palo Verde trees generally need pruning at least once (sometimes twice) a year.
You want to be sure to prune them before the onset of monsoon season – removing any heavyweight or branches that are weakly attached.
Newly-pruned ‘Desert Museum’ palo verde tree ready for the monsoon season
Ensuring the Future of Your Desert Museum Palo Verde
Desert Museum Palo Verde trees are a valuable asset to desert gardens, offering beauty and shade. By following these tips, you can safeguard your tree’s health and stability for years to come. Join me in celebrating the enduring allure of these magnificent desert trees.
Want to learn more about this and other Palo Verde tree species? Check out my previous blog post here.
Sunburned Citrus: Common Signs of Sun Damage
Arizona garden, California desert garden, Citrus, desert gardening, Fruit Trees, Landscape Problems, Las Vegas gardening, Southwest gardenThe Sunburn Experience: Not Just for Humans
Have you ever had a sunburn? Maybe a better question is, “Who hasn’t?”
Well, did you know that many plants get too much as well?
Sunburned Citrus: A Common Concern
On a recent visit to a client who was worried about her newly planted citrus trees.
Sunburned Citrus
The Leaf Yellowing Dilemma on Citrus Trees
This particular client has a large courtyard with several new citrus trees in pots. Her citrus trees, planted in spring, showed yellowing as summer progressed.
Now yellow leaves can indicate a number of different problems. In this case, the diagnosis was rather simple – her citrus tree has a case of sunburn.
Common Signs of Sunburned Citrus and Other Plants
– The areas of the leaf that are yellow are in the center and NOT along the tips or edges.
– Often, the yellow areas begin to turn brown.
– Signs normally occur in the summer months.
– The sunburned leaves are usually located on the south and west-facing parts of the plant.
– This particular citrus tree is in an area that receives reflected, afternoon sun.
How to Prevent Sunburned Citrus
In this case, the solution is simple. Move the citrus tree to another part of the courtyard that receives afternoon shade is all that is needed to prevent further sunburn damage. Another choice is to put 50% shade cloth on from mid-May through September.
Citrus do best when planted at least 10 – 15 ft. away from walls. Unfortunately walls absorb the heat of the day and re-radiate it out.
Avoid planting where they get the full force of afternoon sun.