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 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.
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
Aloe Mites: Signs, Treatments, & Prevention
Aloe mites are a microscopic pest found almost exclusively on aloes. They rarely kill a plant, but they can make it look weird and distorted. Learn the symptoms, what to … Read more
Grow Your Desert Garden on a Budget
Are you looking for ways to save money on plants while still having the desert garden of your dreams? There are a surprising number of ways to acquire new plants … Read more
23 Desert Plants for Winter Color
Looking to add color to your desert garden that extends into winter? Look no further than these plants that have either colorful flowers or leaves in the winter. You’ll find … Read more
9 Things to Know Before Buying a Desert Landscape Plant
Desert landscape plants are an investment. Choosing the right plant can save you time, money, and disappointment. Here are the top 9 factors to consider before making any major purchases. … Read more
Rocks in Your Pots? Don’t Do It!
You’ve probably heard that you should put rocks, gravel, or styrofoam peanuts in the bottom of your plant containers to improve drainage or act as filler. But this gardening myth … Read more
Get Your Desert Garden Ready for Winter
Many desert gardeners inadvertently make their plants more susceptible to cold damage by not changing their maintenance routine in the fall. Discover four easy steps to protect your plants from … Read more
Variety, Hybrid, or Cultivar: What’s the Difference?
When you read plant labels, you’ll notice that many plant names are more complicated than just genus and species. This indicates that they may be a variety, hybrid, or cultivar. … Read more
Agave or Aloe? How to Tell the Difference
Many desert plants grow in symmetric rosettes and have spiky leaves. Have you ever looked at a plant and wondered, “Is that an agave? Or is it an aloe?” Discover … Read more