Eight Evergreen Oaks for the Southwest

I encouraged you to plant evergreen oaks recently.  Now here is some information about which oaks to plant. There are many native oaks to choose from, but let’s start with these eight that you can actually purchase from your local nursery. Be very wary of oaks form big box stores. They are often not from our region and will not survive our lower humidity.  I suppose that if you do […]

Oak Trees for Your Yard

Have you considered an oak tree for your yard?  If you can answer yes to any of these questions – an oak tree may be right for you. Looking for a tall, stately tree for your yard?   Have a tiny yard – but want a nice tree? A tree that provides good dense shade?    One that won’t lose its leaves in winter?   Less messy than a mesquite?    Low […]

Fragrant Plants for Your Desert Garden

Scent is one of our most basic senses, yet fragrant plants are often neglected when planning a landscape. The Nose Knows! I cherish my desert garden for all the wonderfully scented plants in it. Often I run my fingers along branches or leaves to release heady fragrance. Also, I grew up here and love the smell of the desert after the rain. Most scents defy words. I certainly do try […]

Desert Trees for Fast Shade – and Pollinators

“Fall is such a great time to plant new trees, and there are so many wonderful native and near-native choices to add pollinator and wildlife benefits to your yard!” She got me with that wonderful opening sentence so I asked her if I could use some more of her words. Yes! So today we have a guest post from longtime friend and plants woman extraordinaire, Carianne Sienna Funicelli, or should […]