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.
When should you water your plants — in the morning or in the evening? How much does it matter? Discover what the experts have to say about the best time … Read more
Extreme heat, sun, and wind are to be expected in the desert southwest. But sometimes, we experience even “worse than usual” conditions that further stress already stressed plants. Here are … Read more
We’ve all noticed that plants perk up after a rain. They look greener and brighter and suddenly put out new growth and flowers, even though they were regularly watered with … Read more
Correct watering is the single most important thing you can do for your landscape plants, including cactus. Cactus are often watered too much, too little … or not at all. … 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
The merciless heat and aridity of June make it the hardest month on plants, and the most challenging for desert gardeners. Discover what you should and shouldn’t do in the … Read more
Boojum tree is every bit as weird as its name implies. Here’s what you need to know to decide whether this desert native would be a good choice for your … Read more
Looking to entice more hummingbirds into your desert garden? Turn your yard into a “hummer haven” by planting flowering shrubs, perennials, vines, trees, and succulents that our beloved feathered friends … Read more
Queen of the night is an elusive cactus that’s rarely seen in the wild. But it’s widely regarded for its nocturnal flowers that simultaneously bloom once per year. While you … Read more
If you live in the desert southwest and suffer from seasonal allergies, you may be blaming the wrong plants for your misery. Learn which plants are most likely to cause … Read more
Maximilian sunflower is a large, shrub-like perennial with golden daisy-like flowers. It’s easy to grow from seed and is a boon for birds and other wildlife. Here’s everything you need … Read more
‘Color Guard’ is a medium size yucca cultivar that makes an exceptionally attractive accent plant. It’s showy striped leaves brighten any spot in desert gardens. Here’s everything you need to … 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.
