Growing Strawberries in Phoenix, Arizona (Zone 9b)
Strawberries thrive in cool, moist conditions, yet the Phoenix metro area (USDA zone 9b) has scorching summers and alkaline, salty soils. Daily temperatures regularly exceed 100°f from May through September and frost may occur during winter. Strawberries stop producing when temperatures exceed about 85 °F, so local growers must treat them as cool‑season annuals. Planting early, improving […]
How to Grow Mangos in Phoenix (Zone 9b)
Mangos can be a backyard success in Phoenix — but they need special care in our low desert conditions. The challenges are real: extreme heat (and cold), alkaline clay soils, salts, monsoon wind, and frost pockets. With smart placement, soil improvement, careful watering, and seasonal protection, Phoenix area homeowners can enjoy homegrown mangos (and believe […]
Maricopa County Planting Guide: What to Plant and When in Phoenix
Gardening in Phoenix is different than anywhere else in the country. The heat is intense, the air is dry, and winter can sneak in with a frost. Timing is everything. If you’ve ever wondered what can I plant right now?—this guide has your answer. That’s why the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension created the Maricopa […]
To Honor the Past, We Bloom
In nature, death is constant. Leaves fall, limbs break, animals die. But nature does not mourn in the way we do. It accepts. It absorbs. It transforms. A dead branch becomes food for the soil. A fire clears the way for stronger growth. Seeds wait in silence and darkness, then break open—not in spite of it, but because of it.
Battling Aphids in Phoenix?
If you live in the Phoenix area, you’ve probably noticed a recent explosion of aphids in gardens across the Valley. These tiny sap-suckers seem to show up overnight, clustering on tender new growth and leaving behind sticky honeydew and curled leaves.
Building Quality Soil in The Desert
Building Quality Soil in The Desert
Creating Your Desert Microclimate: Growing Tropical Plants in Phoenix
Growing tropical plants in Phoenix might seem impossible with our scorching summers and occasional freezes, but with the right approach, you can create your own lush oasis in the desert. The key is building a microclimate using a strategic layered planting system.
The Lesson is in the Listening
I had a moment recently that made me think about how we learn and grow, not just in gardening, but in life. It started with a question posted in a gardening group on Facebook. Someone was asking if they should use Round-Up to kill some grass. I jumped in and said, “No, it will kill the soil as well, which will negatively affect the other plants nearby.” I offered an alternative solution.
Turn Your Dates In Caramel
My awesome mother-in-law took my Medjool dates and turned them into this awesome date caramel dip! If you’re growing dates, check out this recipe and give it a shot!
How to Fix Clay Soil
If you’ve been struggling with heavy, compacted clay soil in your Phoenix garden, you’re not alone. The dense clay here makes it difficult for water, air, and roots to penetrate, leaving many gardeners frustrated. But don’t worry—we’re about to show you exactly how to transform your clay soil into a thriving, nutrient-rich environment.