6 Steps for Successful Spring Planting
In the desert southwest, spring planting can be surprisingly stressful on plants. Here are 6 steps you can take to minimize their stress and get your plants off to the … 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.
How to Dig a Hole in the Desert
Digging a proper hole is the first step in plant care. But digging a hole isn’t that simple in the desert. Putting a plant in a half-baked hole will doom … Read more
When is Your Last Frost Date? (and why it matters)
Knowing your area’s last frost date is something that every gardener and homeowner should know. It can keep you from inadvertently damaging or killing your plants. But most “last frost … Read more
Agave or Yucca? How to Tell The Difference
Many desert plants have spiky leaves and grow in a rosette. Have you ever looked at a plant and wondered, “Is that an agave or a yucca?” Discover how these … Read more
The “5 Ds” of Pruning Desert Shrubs
Most desert landscape shrubs are pruned more frequently than needed. This makes them less attractive, and is bad for their health and longevity. There are 5 good reasons to prune … Read more
6 Reasons to Ditch Landscape Fabric
There’s a long-standing belief that putting landscape fabric or weed barrier over the soil will prevent weeds. While it may work temporarily in some situations, there are many reasons it’s … Read more
What to Plant in Spring (Month by Month)
It’s generally accepted that spring and fall are the best times to plant. But things are different in the desert! While spring is the best time for some landscape plants, … Read more
Plants to Protect for Extended Winter Beauty
Most desert landscape plants don’t need covering during normal winter cold. But some die back after a freeze unless protected. If you grow any of these plants, consider covering them … Read more
It’s Cold! Should I Cover My Plants?
When night-time temperatures dip to freezing in the desert southwest, you might be wondering which, if any, of your landscape plants you should cover. Here’s a look at which plants … Read more
Insecticidal Soap vs Dish Detergent: Which is Better?
There are a lot of DIY remedies for eliminating insect pests on plants, and one of the most common is spraying with a solution of dish washing liquid. Does dish … Read more
Does Desert Mistletoe Kill Trees? (You May Be Surprised)
Desert mistletoe is a natural part of the desert ecosystem. Is it a parasite that kills trees? Or is it less harmful than purported? The truth may surprise you. Most … Read more
7 Reasons I Appreciate Gardening in the Desert
Desert gardening has its challenges, but there is much to appreciate about gardening in the desert, too. Here are some of the many reasons I appreciate gardening in the desert … Read more