Nature has been building soil for years through the natural decomposition of plant and animal material. Most of this decomposition takes place under vegetation that drops its material (i.e. dead leaves). Under the canopy of the plant, this decomposition continues to enrich the soil and feed the plant. Through composting, we can duplicate this process in our own back yards. To help you get started, here are a few basic … Read More →
Many times when landscaping, we forget that our plants can be grown for the food that they can produce. Right now is a great time to purchase and plant these trees and vines as bare root. You cannot produce a safer or healthier organic food product than fruits and berries off of your own trees and vines. I know there are pundits out there that will tell you it is … Read More →
What would you say if I told you about one little thing you can do for your plants that will reduce watering needs, increase the disease-fighting capabilities of the plants, help them become more heat tolerant, and add to the overall health of the soil? You’d probably say, “Wow, Garden Guy, I always knew you were brilliant!” It’s mulch. I wish I could take credit, but the idea really belongs … Read More →
We are coming up on the most productive time of year for gardening in the Southwest. The first thing to remember is that the soil needs a lot of organic material. This makes for a richer, more productive, chemical-free garden. To achieve good soil, lay down a 6-inch layer of compost, then add blood meal and bone meal (about 5 pounds per 50 square feet). Use a hard rake and … Read More →
This spring’s glorious wildflower show can be re-created in your own garden — be it a flower-filled meadow, a few pots on a patio or balcony or anything in between. Wildflower gardening may be enjoyed by all gardeners, from beginners to advanced. Wildflowers can also be incorporated into any style of landscape from naturally wild to a more manicured landscape. With some planning, some cooperative rain and a little patience, … Read More →
Well, the hot weather is here. To get a great summer vegetable garden, you have to think about which plants work well in the heat. To start, it is important to remember to give your plants a well-prepared garden bed. I recommend raised beds that receive afternoon shade. If you would like to try your hand at a summer vegetable garden, start with a few of my favorites (listed below). … Read More →
There are many ways to start a garden, but one essential, often overlooked, element is structure. It not only adds dimension to your garden, but structure in any garden provides stable, beautiful areas with which to stabilize your plants. There are three types of structures that work in just about any garden — I’ve outlined them below. Teepee Trellis: This structure can be made of wooden stakes, bamboo poles or … Read More →
These days, Valley homes have smaller yards, which means less space for gardens. And for folks in apartments, having a garden seems like an impossible dream. If you grow a garden in a container, though, you can grow almost anything, almost anywhere. All you need is water, sun and afternoon shade. One of my favorite container gardens is a hydro-garden. In this garden, plants grow in a solution of water … Read More →
Evergreen Elm Shammel Ash Ironwood Texas Mountain Laurel Acacia Aneria Mexican Fan Palms Black Mission Fig Anna Apple Texas Ebony Citrus grafted onto sour orange root stock
Citrus trees are a great addition to any landscape. They are easy to grow and take very little care. (Anyone who thinks it takes a lot of care to reap the rewards of citrus unnecessarily induce most of the problems.) If you’re considering planting a citrus tree, go to a reputable source. I like Greenfield Citrus — you can look at all the varieties. And this time of year, you … Read More →
