Why Isn’t My Texas Ranger Blooming?
Texas rangers are extremely popular desert landscape shrubs. When they burst forth in flowers, they are spectacular! But when they fail to bloom, it’s disappointing. Learn why they don’t bloom … Read more
Desert Gardening Basics
Whether you are new to gardening in the desert or have been at it a while, there is always more to learn. Here at Southwest Gardener, you’ll find information on desert gardening basics no matter your level of interest or experience. We strive to base all the information here on science and the latest “best practices” not on garden myths so that you don’t waste your time or money on “garden hacks” that don’t work.
Got Mushrooms? What They Mean (& What To Do)
Mushrooms are a weird and wonderful phenomenon that suddenly appear after rain. If you see them pop up in your yard, you may wonder, “Is their presence good or bad? … Read more
How Desert Wind is Tough on Plants (& what you can do)
It’s hot, dry, and windy in the desert Southwest, and wind can be surprisingly detrimental to plants in both obvious and hidden ways. Here are the ways wind is tough … Read more
Low Litter Trees for Desert Gardens
Looking to add more shade to your desert garden but are daunted by the potential mess? Enjoy your garden more and stress less with this assortment of trees that thrive … Read more
The Best Hummingbird Plants for Desert Gardens
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
What Desert Plants Are Making You Sneeze?
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
Purslane, Portulaca, & Moss Rose: What’s the Difference?
There are three plants commonly grown as annuals that go by the interchangeable common names “purslane”, “portulaca”, and “moss rose” — it can be confusing! Learn the difference between them, … Read more
5 Reasons to Skip Neem Oil (& what to use instead)
Neem oil is a natural, versatile insecticide that breaks down fast in the environment and can treat many common insect pests. But it has some big drawbacks, too, including issues … Read more
TEP’s “Trees for You”: Choosing the Right Tree
If you live in Tucson, you may be able to take advantage of Tucson Electric Power’s “Trees for You” program. Here’s a look at the trees they offer to help … Read more
Desert Gardening Made Easy with Native Plants
Desert gardening can be challenging. Looking for an advantage? Grow native plants! Here are the top reasons growing natives can make gardening more enjoyable and less of a struggle. There’s … Read more
Is the White Fuzz on Your Cactus Cochineal?
Cochineal scale is an insect pest found almost exclusively on prickly pear cactus. It’s not usually serious, but it can disfigure and weaken your plant. Discover how to identify cochineal, … Read more
Desert Clay Soil: Unique Problems & Solutions
Growing plants in the desert is already challenging, and growing them in clay soil can make it even more difficult. Learn how to tell if your soil is clay, the … Read more