The Lower Salt River has long been one of Arizona’s most visited desert waterways. Here, cool flowing water cuts through the Sonoran landscape and creates a seasonal gathering place for recreation, wildlife, and community. As tubing season approaches each year, increased foot traffic along the riverbanks brings both opportunity and impact. Therefore, early-season stewardship has become an important part of …
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Chihuahuan-Sage, Leucophyllum laevigatum is a low-maintenance evergreen shrub with a spiky, but loose form. The periodic masses of lavender flowers are not only fragrant but will attract hummingbirds, too. Description Medium green leaves are somewhat sparsely arranged, yet they cling tightly along the erect to spreading branches of Chihuahuan-sage. Individual leaves measure ½ inch long and ¼ inch wide at …
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$$ Grass Removals = Big Water Savings $$ In the desert Southwest, grass is one of the thirstiest landscape choices you can make. That’s why more Mesa residents, businesses, and HOAs are choosing to replace turfgrass with water-smart desert landscapes – and the results are adding up in a big way. In 2025 alone, Mesa’s grass-to-xeriscape incentive programs helped remove …
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This month’s Plant of the Month blog spotlights another standout selection from his latest book — Cool Cacti and Succulents for Hot Gardens by Greg Starr — a must-have guide for any desert gardener! With over 150 water-wise picks perfect for the Southwest, it’s no surprise we’re big fans here at Water – Use It Wisely. One of our favorite features? …
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Hey there, water-saving superstars! It’s me, Wayne Drop, your friendly neighborhood water droplet, with some big news and a call for help. Water – Use It Wisely is excited to announce the return of the ‘Save Water with Wayne Drop’ Sticker Contest, and we are looking for creative artists to help design an official set of Water – Use …
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Gardening in Arizona continues to evolve as homeowners work with the desert climate rather than against it. According to SummerWinds Nursery’s 2026 Arizona Garden Trends guide, gardeners across the Valley are focusing on: Water-wise planting Heat-smart landscape design Patio-centered outdoor living, and Plant choices that support pollinators and long-term sustainability. Designs are shifting toward cleaner, desert-modern landscapes that use plants …
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This month’s Plant of the Month blog spotlights another standout selection from the newly revised Cool Plants for Hot Gardens by Greg Starr — a must-have guide for any desert gardener! With 150 water-wise picks perfect for the Southwest, it’s no surprise we’re big fans here at Water – Use It Wisely. One of our favorite features? Greg’s playful deep dives into the etymology (the origin of …
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As 2025 comes to a close, we’re celebrating the blog posts that inspired readers to care for their landscapes, conserve water, and support the desert environment. From expert tips on pruning and xeriscape conversions to guides on pollinators, water use, and desert-friendly plants, these articles provided practical advice, innovative ideas, and eye-opening insights. 1. Plant of the Month: Guayacán …
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Euphorbia tirucallii ‘Sticks on Fire’ FIRESTICKS, RED PENCIL TREE Bloom Period: None of note Mature Height x Spread: 4-8 x 3-5 ft (1.2-2.4 m x .91-1.5 m) Exposure: Full sun Cold tolerance: 30° F (-1° C) Origin: Africa This colorful succulent has vibrant orange-red colored stems that are green at the base. In addition to its color, its thin stems …
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Submit Your Shots today! A WORLD OF WATER The WRRC Annual Photo Contest is back! This is your chance to capture A World of Water, which is the 2025 contest theme. Use your creativity and technical ability to express the many ways water transforms our world and how humanity transforms water. From ANY LOCATION, we invite you to capture how water …
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Plant once, enjoy for years! This desert-hardy bulb thrives in Xeriscapes! It may seem rather strange to think of landscapes decorated with lilies in fall, but summer and fall rain bring on the lovely blooms of rain lilies (Zephyranthes species). Rain or ‘zephyr’ lilies add beauty to gardens throughout the Southern half of the U.S., including the Southwest. While their …
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In Arizona, water conservation is a winning message. As Arizona residents know well, water conservation is essential to life in our state. Since 1999, Water – Use It Wisely has proudly promoted this message, encouraging residents to save water through simple, everyday actions. Our campaign has remained committed to sharing water-saving tips, educational tools, and community resources for more than …
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