Why Even Desert Succulents Like Some Shade
Assuming that landscape succulents (i.e. cactus, agave, aloes) love full sun is a common mistake that many desert gardeners make. Here’s why full sun can be hard on even the … Read more
Myths & Misinformation
Don’t be fooled by gardening myths and misinformation. Here at Southwest Gardener we love to “dig deep” to find the truth based in science and “best practices” according to the experts, not the latest social media fad. So here you’ll find articles on gardening topics that are commonly misunderstood.
Invasive Desert Landscape Plants (Do Not Grow!)
Anyone who has lived in the southwest for some time has heard about invasive plant species such as buffelgrass and stinknet. But there are several landscape plants, including some extremely … Read more
Mulch in the Desert: Gravel vs Wood Chips
In the desert southwest, gravel is often the default mulch used to cover yards. But there are also advocates for using wood chips instead. What are the drawbacks and benefits … Read more
How & Why to “Deep Water” Desert Plants
Correct watering is the single most important thing you can do for your desert landscape plants. But most homeowners water “quick & shallow” which stresses their plants and wastes water. … Read more
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
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
Desert Broom: Maligned Native Shrub
Desert broom is a controversial plant that people love to hate. It’s often mistakenly accused of being invasive and causing allergies. Discover the crucial roles this southwest native plays in … 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
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
Purple Fountain Grass: Sterile or Invasive?
It’s a well-established fact that fountain grass is invasive in the desert. Purple fountain grass is often recommended as a “sterile” variety that can be planted safely instead. But is … Read more