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
Desert Plant Care
There are many aspects of plant care to keep your desert plants healthy and beatiful. Watering is at the top of the list, but there is also pruning, fertilizing, providing shade and cold protection, and more. Here at Southwest Gardener you’ll find in-depth information on keeping your plants healthy and beautiful while, minimizing maintenance tasks for you.
What to Plant in Spring (Month by Month)
It’s a universal gardening “rule of thumb” that spring and fall are the best times to plant. But things are different in the desert! While spring is the best time … 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 nighttime 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
Why I Hired an Arborist to Check My New Trees
When my young desert trees were ready to be pruned, I hired an arborist. Here’s a look at why I hired a professional, what actions she took, instructions she gave … Read more
5 Reasons to Plant in the Fall (not Spring)
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
Can You Water Plants with AC Condensate?
Air conditioning condensate is an overlooked source of free “grey water.” But is it good for your plants? And can you collect enough of it in a hot, dry climate … Read more
How to Water Desert Shrubs: How Often? How Much?
It’s estimated that 90% of desert homeowners don’t water their shrubs correctly. This stresses the plants, wastes water, and costs you money. Learn how to water the right way for … Read more
How to Water Desert Trees: How Often? How Much?
It’s estimated that 90% of desert homeowners don’t water their trees correctly. This stresses them, wastes water, and costs you money. Learn how to water the right way for beautiful, … Read more
When Is a Desert Plant “Established”?
Is your new desert plant “established”? If so, it may be time to give it less water. But how can you tell? What does “established” really mean? Learn two ways … Read more
Should You Fertilize Desert Landscape Plants?
Should you fertilize desert landscape plants? Or is this a maintenance step you can skip? Here’s a look at the pros and cons of fertilizing, synthetic vs organic fertilizers, and … Read more