Choosing the Right New Plants for Your Garden Research New Plants Before You Shop New plants can be planted in the fall with ease. You may notice the lengthening shadows on your way home from work, signaling shorter days. Or maybe you've…

It may surprise you to find that it is easier to find plants that thrive in the sun than in the shade. Especially if you live in the desert Southwest. Why is this, you may ask? Well, it can be hard to find plants that can handle the intense,…

Understanding Garden Color Blindness Last month, I diagnosed my first ever case of garden color blindness. Now, I realize that I am no doctor or medical authority. However, as a horticulturist, I am somewhat of an expert in the garden,…

Exploring Unconventional Container Plants What type of plants comes to mind when you are planning what to plant in your containers? I'm willing to bet that purple hopbush (Dodonaea viscosa 'Purpurea') and bush morning glory (Convolvulus…

I have a confession to make.   I don't have any containers filled with flowering annuals. Shocking isn't it? There are a few reasons for this, the most important one is that I prefer using relatively fuss-free plants that look great…

Exploring Botanical Interests Seed Company Have you ever taken a peek behind the scenes? If you have, you know it reveals so much that you never knew. In the past, I've had a look at what goes on in the background in a variety of places…

Preparing Your Garden for a Heatwave: 5 Essential Tips Have you ever wondered how your plants fare in the scorching heat of summer? Is your garden equipped to withstand the punishing temperatures that a heatwave can bring, whether you reside…

"How much water do my plants need?" I am often asked this question by desert dwellers and my answer is always, "That depends." There are several variables that determine how much water plants need, along with the frequency of watering. Variables…

I love peaches. Every year, I look forward to May when the peaches on my tree are ripe and ready. While May might seem a little early for peaches, in the low desert garden, this is when they are ready for being harvested.  There…