Shrubs

10 Non-Native plants for New Mexico

10 Non-Native Plants for Southwest NM

10 Non-Native Plants for Southwest NM. If you’ve gardened in Southwest New Mexico for any length of time, you already know this isn’t Ohio. We deal with blazing summer heat, alkaline soil, wind that doesn’t quit, and long dry stretches with very little rain. That’s why plant selection matters so much here. Native plants are […]

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family zinna plants

Why Zinnias Thrive in Hot Weather

If you want dependable summer color in Southwest New Mexico, zinnias are hard to beat. Why Zinnias Thrive in Hot Weather They love the heat.They tolerate our intense sun.And they bloom nonstop when many other flowers are struggling. Whether you garden in Las Cruces, El Paso, or surrounding desert communities, zinnias are one of the […]

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Planting the Sotol Plant

Planting the Sotol Plant

If you want a stunning, low-maintenance focal point for your desert yard, the Sotol plant (Dasylirion wheeleri) is one of the best choices you can make. Native to New Mexico, Arizona, and northern Mexico, this hardy succulent thrives in arid climates and adds dramatic Southwest character to any xeriscape landscape.

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Root Rot in Desert Plants

Treat Root Rot in Desert Plants

How to treat Root rot in desert plants. Root rot is a common problem—even in dry, arid climates like the American Southwest. While desert plants are drought-tolerant, they can still suffer from overwatering, poor drainage, or extended rainy spells. This guide will help you spot the signs early and take action to save your plants. […]

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Homstead Red Verbena

Homestead Red Verbena

Homestead Red Verbena: Bring a Burst of Color to Your Garden Homestead Red Verbena grabs your attention fast. Its brilliant red blooms brighten any homestead, and it keeps coloring up the landscape long after most flowers fade away. I love how it fills empty garden space with energy, and it’s no wonder more people are […]

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What is Cochineal

What Is Cochineal

The Surprising Insect Shaping Desert Gardens and Cactus Health What Is Cochineal? Pronounced (koch-uh-neel). If you’ve spent any time caring for cacti, you’ve likely heard about cochineal. These tiny bugs hide under a fluffy white coating and suck the juices out of prickly pear pads. Most people don’t realize cochineal’s impact reaches far beyond a […]

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Amazing low water plants

Low Water Plants That Look Amazing

Stylish Choices for a Drought-Smart Garden [2025] Low water plants that look amazing. Dry summers and tighter water rules are changing how I look at my garden. Low water plants are becoming the choice for many gardeners. These tough, good-looking plants save water and make my outdoor space stand out. Picking the right low water […]

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Improve drainage in soil

Ways to boost drainage in clay soil

Ways to boost drainage in clay soil. Planting in clay soils isn’t for the faint of heart. If you’ve ever dug in sticky, heavy earth after a rainstorm, you already know the struggle. Roots suffocate, water pools, and plants sulk or just give up. Boosting drainage fast is key if you want lush, healthy plants […]

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Easy Ways to Control Aphids

Easy Ways to Control Aphids on Outdoor Plants [2025 Guide]

The easy way to control Aphids outdoor plants. Aphids are tiny bugs that love to suck the juice from my plants. They show up in bunches and can spread fast, leaving leaves curled, sticky, or covered in little green or black dots. If I don’t control aphids, they can weaken plants and even pass along […]

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How to Spot Powder Mildew

How to Spot Powdery Mildew Early

How to spot powdery mildew early.  This fungus creeps in like a light blanket of snow—soft, silent, and quick. It’s a fungal disease that pops up on many outdoor plants, especially during midsummer when gardens should be bursting with color and life. I’ve learned that letting this fungus take hold can spell trouble for leaves, […]

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