What does your garden look like in early spring? Does it somewhat boring? How about adding some color and interest to your garden by adding some water-wise flowering plants? This week, I had a fun project to work on - in partnership with…

Do you have an easy time saying "goodbye" to a loved one?  Probably not. As I sit and write this post this evening, I must confess that my mother's heart hurts.   We said "goodbye" this morning to our daughter, Rachele and her…

Do you have a plant that you have wanted to add to your garden?   I have wanted a certain cactus for my own landscape for a long time and earlier this week, I found myself bringing a cutting of my favorite cactus finally home. I…

Do you enjoy seeing "before and after" photos?I do - especially with landscapes.Just over a year ago, I was asked to help renovate a local church's landscape. As you can see their landscape had become rather bare as plants had not been…

Do you love roses? I do. While most people will tell you that they love roses, they probably do not like the extra maintenance that they require with repeated fertilizing, deadheading, and fighting damaging insects, and fungal diseases. Well,…

signs of our warm winter While much of the country is suffering from a truly awful winter season, those of us who live in the Southwest are having the exact opposite problem. This has been a very warm winter season, with the exception…

Yesterday, I spent the morning on the family farm pruning apple trees. It was a nice break from a very busy week of landscape consulting and I was looking forward to spending time with my mother, who resides on Double S Farms with my…

Do you have a lemon or other type of citrus tree growing in your backyard? Chances are, if you live in California, the Southwest or Southeastern United States, you do or your neighbor does. While many people throughout the rest of…

Do you enjoy winter? I do. Surprisingly, the desert Southwest has definite seasons and winters can get cold with temps dipping into the 20s. Photo: Frost-damaged natal plum Unfortunately, the cold temperatures can wreak havoc…