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.
If TEP (Tucson Electric Power) is your electricity provider, you can take advantage of their “Trees for You” program. Here’s a review of the trees available through this program to … Read more
It’s generally believed that spring and fall are the best times to plant. But recently, the experts are “warming up” to the idea that fall is now the best time … Read more
If you grow citrus trees in the desert southwest, it’s important that you fertilize them to keep them healthy, attractive, and productive. But there’s more to it than haphazardly sprinkling … Read more
It’s generally recommended that spring and fall are the best times to plant. But here in the desert Southwest there’s been a change of heart among many experts, who now … 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
While September might mean fall elsewhere, it’s still summer here in the desert Southwest. However, the monsoon is winding down, which brings some changes in weather and gardening tasks. Here’s … Read more
If you like flowers that are bold and colorful, torch cactus is a “must have” addition to your desert garden. When in bloom, the flowers warrant the use of superlatives … Read more
When covered with brilliant flowers, bougainvilleas are a sight to behold! So when they fail to bloom, it can be disappointing. Learn why bougainvilleas stop flowering, when it’s a problem … Read more
Looking for something out of the ordinary? Look no further than mangaves. These unique, whimsical agave hybrids are prized for their unusual leaves that come in an amazing array of … Read more
Arabian lilac is a large, deciduous shrub that has striking two-tone leaves of green and purple, along with purple flowers and stems. Here’s everything you need to know about growing … Read more
Mexican flame vine is a beautiful, perennial vine with vivid orange flowers that butterflies can’t resist. Unlike many desert vines, it stays a manageable size. Here’s how to plant and … Read more
Fishhook barrel is a rugged cactus that looks rather nondescript until it blooms during the monsoon, when it adds a surprising touch of vivid color when many other desert plants … Read more
Want to learn more about specific plants? Explore our Desert Plant Library, where you’ll find comprehensive “Growing Guides” for 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 16 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.
