Use of low-fired, clay ceramic vessels (ollas) is an ancient technique for the efficient irrigation of crops. First, in use in China and North Africa more than 4,000 years ago, the technique has spread throughout arid regions of the world. The use of ollas (pronounced oh-yahs) can save the gardener time, energy, and water. Olla users report that their vegetable gardens produce …
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Don’t you just love summer?! Pool time, fun, games… and of course, water conservation!? Wait – what?! Yes! You heard me right. Saving water during the hot summer months is important, especially in the Arizona desert. Because it gets so hot here, people often take more showers or baths. And, our plants in the landscape or swimming pools will use …
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It’s no surprise that the biggest challenge to growing plants in our region is the intense heat and dryness of summer, which is a stressful environment for plants. Thankfully, there are several plants that thrive in a hot, dry climate. Here are a few of Southwest Gardening’s Noelle Johnson’s favorite plants that can take the Southwest heat. 1. Bush Lantana (Lantana …
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Pools are a great way to beat the heat! However, summer weather can do a number on your pool: haboobs deposit dirt, blustery winds deliver shed flowers and leaves, and rain washes yard debris right into your pool. Just like cleaning up after the big July 4th party, your pool needs maintenance to keep the water crystal clear. Besides regular …
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This month, we are celebrating American Wetlands Month! When you think of wetlands you might think of marshlands like the Louisiana Delta or the Florida Everglades. What might surprise you is that we do have wetlands in the Arizona desert. Some are natural and some are manmade. What is a Wetland? Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil or …
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Bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies are just a few of the helpful pollinators flying through our landscapes. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, pollinators are responsible for assisting over 80% of the world’s flowering plants to reproduce. We depend on pollinators for the gardens we enjoy, plant materials we utilize, and the food we eat. Bees are by far the …
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Hey everybody! Wayne Drop here… Let’s face it, this school year has caused a wave of emotions and changes. But we are getting through it with the help of our amazing educators. Since 1984, National PTA has designated the first full week in May, every year, as a time to honor the men and women who lend their passion and …
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On Arbor Day, we celebrate the significant role trees play in our lives and our environment and promote the planting and care of trees. So why should we celebrate and plant trees? In addition to being beautiful, trees provide a variety of benefits to people and the environment. Find our: Top Ten Reasons to Plant a Tree The shade of …
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Hey everybody! Wayne Drop here…Earth Day is on April 22nd! Earth Day is one of my favorite days of the year! After all, our amazing planet has 71% of its surface area covered in water. Earth Day was founded in 1970 to raise awareness about environmental issues such as pollution, deforestation and clean water. Since then, Earth Day has …
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How would you like to be greeted in the morning by the delicious, rich smell of chocolate from your garden? If that sounds AMAZING, Berlandiera lyrata, or “Chocolate Flower” is the plant for you! When the plant is in full flower, it gives off a distinctive chocolate scent. Yum! This low-growing perennial has coarse, evergreen foliage, with yellow daisy-like flowers …
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THIS SPRING, LEARN HOW BEAUTIFUL WATER CONSERVATION CAN BE. Spring is in the air; in the sweetness of the citrus buds, in the warmth against your skin, in the vibrant colors of blooming shrubs. Time to put your garden gloves and shovel to work and get your landscaping on par with the rest of Mother Nature. Water – Plant It Wisely is …
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Hey everybody! Wayne Drop here – the official spokes-drop for Water – Use It Wisely. I am overflowing with excitement to invite you to participate in the BEST WEEK OF THE YEAR… well at least it’s my favorite… Fix a Leak Week! First, Why Do We Need a Week for Leaks? Did you know that, in a year, water leaks …
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