Southwestern Deserts
February, 2007
Regional Report
Shows & Events
14th Annual High-Desert Gardening & Landscaping Conference
Diverse topics will include basic gardening information as well as rainwater harvesting, gravity-fed drip irrigation, native plant propagation, arthropods of the high desert, ergonomics for gardeners, weed control, San Pedro River ecology, and more. Held February 15 & 16 in Sierra Vista, Arizona, and co-sponsored by Cochise County Master Gardeners and University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. For complete registration info, call (520) 458-8278; or go to http://www.ag.arizona.edu/cochise/mg/.
Favorite or New Plant
Emu Bush
The bright red, tubular flowers of 'Valentine' emu bush (Eremophila 'Valentine') seem to peak in time for Valentine's Day, thus its common name. Foliage is drought tolerant but grows more lush with moderate water. Prune after blooming to encourage next year's flowers. This Aussie native enjoys full sun and takes cold to 25 degrees F. It is a moderately fast grower that can reach 4 feet tall by 4 to 5 feet wide at maturity.
