Southwestern Deserts
December, 2006
Regional Report
National News - From NGA Editors
Sourcing Organic Seeds
For those avid about using organic methods to grow their vegetables, herbs, and flowers, using organically grown seed is a must. However, not all seed companies offer organic seeds so it can take...
Plant Sales Support Medical Research
Perilla is a colorful annual flower that resembles coleus but is more sun and heat tolerant. A newly introduced perilla not only has improved leaf color and texture, it also has a special story...
Amended Compost Holds More Nutrients
Adding compost to your garden soils is a great way to improve water retention and drainage and add nutrients. Making your own compost is the best way to produce large quantities at home, however,...
New Orange Eggplant
Eggplant is a favorite vegetable for grilling, roasting, and using in soups and other dishes. Most commonly available with purple skins, in the last 20 years eggplants have been introduced with...
In the Garden
Tomato Starts
It seems a bit odd to be thinking about tomatoes during a season filled with pine trees and poinsettias. However, it's a good idea to add "purchase and sow tomato seeds" to your to-do list. This will ensure that transplants are ready to set out as soon...
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Resources
Favorite or New Plant
Silk Floss Tree Native to South America, Chorisia speciosa is an incredibly showy tree. Its trunk is studded...
Tool or Gardening Product
Wall O' Waters Heavy-duty plastic tepees help expand the tomato-growing season by protecting tender plants from...
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Regional Reminders
- Monitor Houseplants
- Plant Annual Color Bowls
- Water Lawns Appropriately
- Transplant Volunteer Seedlings
- Turn Compost
