When I share the secrets to growing crape myrtles in Prescott, gardeners often express surprise. You might think these gorgeous, long-blooming trees are exclusive to warmer climates. Not so! With a bit of know-how, you can enjoy their vibrant summer flowers, beautiful bark and attractive fall foliage right here in our mile-high climate. Crape myrtles thrive in our intense Arizona sun, making them perfect for hot, exposed locations where other plants might struggle. They thrive in our dry air … [Read more...] about Southern Belle to Mountain Gem: Crape Myrtles Brighten Prescott Gardens
Ken Lain
Butterfly-Friendly Herbs for the Garden
With increasing awareness of the risks of certain pesticides to essential pollinators like butterflies and bees, modern gardeners are turning to plant selections that foster these beneficial insects by providing attractive habitats and food sources free from harmful chemicals. To entice butterflies, gardeners should focus on vibrant blossoms and establish a safe haven where these insects can feed on nectar and find shelter and hydration. Butterflies and bees thrive in organic environments free … [Read more...] about Butterfly-Friendly Herbs for the Garden
Rose Rainbow: Every Color, Every Scent
The colors stun gardeners in their tracks. Thousands of roses are offered at the garden center in dozens and dozens of fragrances. Choosing the perfect one can be overwhelming, but not after this read. Plant experts are working hard at developing new hues and colors while improving the vigor and brilliance of garden roses. From the calm vibes of an all-white garden, the contrast of the color wheel or the free-spirited look of a cottage garden, there is no doubt a rose color to suit … [Read more...] about Rose Rainbow: Every Color, Every Scent
Popular Rose Colors You Can Grow
The colors of roses stun gardeners in their tracks. Thousands of roses are offered at the garden center in dozens and dozens of fragrances. Choosing the perfect one can be overwhelming, but not after you read this. Plant experts are hard at work developing new hues and colors while improving the vigor and brilliance of garden roses. From the calm vibes of an all-white garden, the contrast of the color wheel, or the free-spirited look of a cottage garden, there is a rose color to suit … [Read more...] about Popular Rose Colors You Can Grow
Recognizing the Wild Wonders of Native Plants
Arizona’s enchanting landscapes, where the rugged desert meets the majestic mountains, boast more than 4,000 native plants, adding vibrancy and resilience to your outdoor oasis. As you embark on your garden journey this spring, consider these eight vibrant plants carefully selected to transform your Arizona landscape into something unique and beautiful. 1. Bear Grass, Nolina microcarpa, adds a touch of elegance and texture to any landscape. In spring, this clumping perennial grass produces … [Read more...] about Recognizing the Wild Wonders of Native Plants
Learning the Art of Pruning Fruit Trees in Seven Steps
Every tree needs a little TLC now and then, and winter is the perfect time to give your apple trees some attention. Think of it as a spa day for your trees! The first step is to remove any unproductive wood that might be causing problems. It’s easy to prune an overgrow tree if you follow these seven steps in sequence. I hope you find this helpful. Step #1: Remove Unproductive Wood that Attracts Problems Start by taking out any dead, damaged or diseased branches. Dead wood is usually pretty … [Read more...] about Learning the Art of Pruning Fruit Trees in Seven Steps
Nature’s Night Owls: Stunning Plants that Love the Dark
Adding plants is my favorite way to add life to any room. Having plants indoors makes everything feel lighter, brighter and more alive. Houseplants add color and texture, purify the air and look nice. Basements and dark corners challenge houseplants through winter. Many plants like it dark, and the short winter days only make them happier. Here’s the list and their best care. The Biology of Low-Light Indoor Plants Large leaves are designed to soak up more light. Others have a waxy outer layer … [Read more...] about Nature’s Night Owls: Stunning Plants that Love the Dark
Green Therapy: How Houseplants Secretly Improve Your Life
It turns out that houseplants do more than just add a pop of greenery to a room – they provide a range of physical and mental benefits, too. Biophilia refers to the innate tendency of human beings to seek out connections with nature and other living things. According to this philosophy, humans are more disconnected from nature than ever before, which may help to explain the increasing popularity of decorating with and caring for houseplants. While the benefits of being exposed to nature are … [Read more...] about Green Therapy: How Houseplants Secretly Improve Your Life
Nine Houseplants that Make a Kitchen Statement
Houseplants are a quick and easy way to spruce up your decor. When it comes to the kitchen, growing plants indoors has some practical applications. The right plants purify inside air, add splashes of color and provide fresh produce. These nine houseplants are the ideal place to start in your kitchen. African Violets Saintpaulia, is the perfect houseplant substitute for those who enjoy cut flowers in the kitchen! Happy African Violets flower nearly year-round and come in a multitude of … [Read more...] about Nine Houseplants that Make a Kitchen Statement
Beyond Pumpkin Spice: Fall Tips for a Lush Landscape
Autumn gardening is a great time to look back on garden successes and disappointments. There’s still plenty of time to do some garden maintenance. Fall gardening takes advantage of cooler temperatures and fewer weeds and insects. Putting the garden to bed is not as hectic as waking it up in the spring. You’ll have time to really see how your plants are doing. Here are some tasks to do now, to make next year’s garden brighter and better. Enrich garden beds with Watters Barnyard Manure. … [Read more...] about Beyond Pumpkin Spice: Fall Tips for a Lush Landscape
