Southwestern Deserts
July, 2007
Regional Report
National News - From NGA Editors
New, Red Japanese Painted Fern
Ferns are popular shade garden plants that add texture and interest to areas where many plants wont thrive. While the dominant color of ferns is green, the Japanese painted fern adds a silvery...
Simple, Safe Wasp Deterrent
Wasps and yellow jackets have a habit of ruining outdoor picnics and gatherings. They often build nests close to houses or in our yards and can become a nuisance when we try to use our outdoor...
Rose Hips May Ease Rheumatoid Arthritis
Roses have been known for years to be not only beautiful but edible and medicinal as well. The rose hip, in particular, can be used in applesauce, soup, stew, marmalade, bread, pie, jam, and...
Native Ground Cover for Deep Shade
Ferns and hostas may make a big impact in shady areas, but don't overlook the beauty of smaller ground covers, especially when they burst into bloom like Meehan's mint. This native, creeping mint...
In the Garden
Saguaro Cacti
Visions of Southwestern deserts often bring to mind the mighty saguaro ( Carnegiea gigantea ), arms stretched upwards to the sky. New residents lucky enough to have saguaro in their landscape often ask about birds creating cavities in the saguaro,...
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Resources
Shows & Events
Butterfly Exhibit Live butterfly exhibits have become extremely popular at botanical gardens, providing...
Clever Gardening Technique
Picking a Ripe Cantaloupe When cantaloupe are ripe, they will easily detach or "slip" from the stem with a gentle push or...
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Regional Reminders
- Water Lawns Efficiently
- Sow Pumpkin Seeds
- Plant Palm Trees
- Pollinate by Hand
- Monitor Rainwater Flow
