Gardening in the desert has its challenges, but with the right information, it’s possible to have a beautiful garden filled with low-maintenance plants. Southwest Gardener will show you how.
In the desert southwest, gravel is often the default mulch used to cover yards. But there are also advocates for using wood chips instead. What are the drawbacks and benefits … Read more
In the desert southwest, spring planting can be surprisingly stressful on plants. Here are the steps you can take to minimize their stress and get your plants off to the … Read more
It’s a universal gardening “rule of thumb” that spring and fall are the best times to plant. But things are different in the desert! While spring is the best time … Read more
Agave weevils infest agave crops and desert landscape plants and are a worldwide problem. Learn the symptoms, which agave species are the most susceptible, what you can do if your … Read more
While there’s beauty to be found in the desert all year, April might just be the most beautiful month. And for gardeners, it’s one of the busiest, too. Here’s a … Read more
Looking for a sturdy yet manageable garden hose? Stainless steel hoses are nearly indestructible. They withstand intense heat and sun. You can drag them across gravel or impale them on … Read more
Quadricolor century plant is a stunning, multicolor agave that stands out in desert gardens. It stays compact but produces an endless supply of offsets. Here’s everything you need to know … Read more
Willow acacia is a tall, pendulous tree that is not a true willow, but has many willow-like attributes. But be aware that this is a high maintenance tree that many … Read more
Mexican sunflower is a large, shrub-like annual with eye-popping, red-orange flowers that pollinators can’t resist. It’s easy to grow from seed and makes a delightful addition to desert gardens. Here’s … Read more
Trailing indigo bush may look delicate, but is considered one of the toughest ground covers you can grow in desert landscapes. Here’s everything you need to know about this Chihuahuan … Read more
Want to learn more about specific plants? Explore our Desert Plant Library, where you’ll find comprehensive plant profiles of over 200 popular landscape plants.
Ready to get started, but not sure where to begin? Please visit the “Welcome” page.
About Me
Hi, I’m Deane Alban, the creator of Southwest Gardener. I’m a science writer with a bachelor’s degree in botany from the University of South Florida. Gardening is my lifelong passion. I’ve been gardening in Tucson for over 15 years.
Whether your interest in gardening is casual — you simply want to learn to take care of the plants you have — or gardening is your passion, I think you’ll find what you’re looking for at Southwest Gardener
Want to learn how to take care of your plants? Check out Desert Gardening Basics for the best care practices based on science and experience, not fads.
