Come join in the conversation and be inspired to grow as urban gardeners share the benefits and how-to’s of growing your own healthy food, herbs, edible flowers and fruit trees in our desert environment. Learn about our planting and harvesting seasons. Find out about the wide range of community gardens available for you to participate

A new generation of controller is available that automatically adjusts your irrigation schedule based on actual site and weather conditions. Learn how these controllers can prevent irrigation when it rains, apply more water to your landscape during unexpected hot and dry spells, and automatically adjust watering to reduce runoff from slopes.

The dreaded invasion of weeds into your landscape begins after the winter rains. Learn from a garden expert on how to sustainably control the weedy enemy before your entire landscape becomes a battlefield.  

Explore the benefits and requirements of active versus passive rainwater harvesting, and get a special preview of the City's upcoming rainwater harvesting project.

Irrigation controllers, when used correctly, can be a beneficial tool in your landscape. Learn the basics on how to program your controller to match the watering needs of your plants.  

In preparation for EPA's annual Fix-a-Leak week on March 16-22, your Surprise water conservation team will teach you how to use your water meter to locate and fix leaks inside and outside of the home.

Come learn the process of turning yard waste and organic food scraps into vital nutrients for your garden soil. Compost reduces the need to water as often as well as the need for commercial soil amendments and chemical fertilizers.

Get the basics on good maintenance practices, troubleshooting and techniques to keep your landscape irrigation system running smoothly from Irrigation Specialist, Jeff Lee.

Cactus, unique and interesting gifts of the desert southwest. They deserve a place in everyone's landscape, either a giant saguaro centerpiece or a potted pincushion in the windowsill. This class will provide instruction on variety selection, planting/potting, water, pruning, fertilizer, and even propagation. Presented by Jonathan Manning, Certified Arborist.

The Sonoran Desert is one of the most ecologically diverse deserts in the U.S. Many native plants were important sources of food and medicine for indigenous people. Get a whole new appreciation for desert-adapted plants by learning about which ones are good to eat.   * Information shared in this class does not constitute medical or dietary advice.  

Congratulations on choosing a desert-adapted landscape! Come nerd out on desert plants with us as we learn how to grow, transplant, and care for them appropriately.

How big is the cute baby tree in your yard going to get? A tree that will get too big for its location will lead to damage of surrounding foundations and sidewalks, neighbor disputes, and eventually the huge cost of removal. Different species will be discussed thoroughly including photos, pros/cons, and tips on special care. Presented by Jonathan Manning , …