Hi, Desert Gardener!

Last week, some of us received much-needed rain. I don't want to sound too exuberant about this since I know some of you may have experienced flooding. I know how damaging storms can be and I hope all is well with you and your garden. 😢

This week, I started my fall planting. What a joy it is to dig in soft, wet soil! I obsessively watch my new plants and am delighted to report that they all look happy with no signs of transplant shock.

Planting in the fall really does make gardening easier -- on your plants, and on you.

My husband called me a "helicopter parent" because I not only go outside to check my new plants often, I also check on them from inside with my binoculars! 🚁

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I've got a couple of last minute garden events that are not in the Events Calendar.

Pima County Master Gardeners will be at Tucson's Heirloom Farmer's Markets -- Rincon Valley and Rillito Park on Saturday and Sunday, respectively. This is a great opportunity to stump them with your toughest gardening questions!

Tucson Cactus & Succulent Society has thousands of rescued cactus and ocotillos that are being sold to the public Sunday (the 19th). BTW, they are always looking for volunteers to help rescue plants from either homeowners or construction sites. If you don't mind working with prickly plants, it's a great way to meet fellow plant lovers.

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What you'll find in this week's newsletter:

• Featured plant: Baja ruellia
• Important watering saving info 💧
• How to water desert trees
• What to do in the garden in October
• Upcoming gardening classes & events 🎃
• and more!

Important Water Saving Information!

The rule of thumb is that anytime you have more than 1/2" of rain, you can skip your next irrigation/watering cycle. But many of us received more than 3" and that much moisture can last a few weeks before additional watering is needed.

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Now that the temperatures are consistently staying below 90, it's time to adjust from a summer to fall watering schedule. Not sure how? Check out the free Landscape Watering by the Numbers flipbook. This contains information on watering that every gardener should know. I urge you to download or bookmark this invaluable reference. (I find pages 9 & 12 particularly helpful.)

Tucson Garden Events & Classes

There are lots of garden events, classes, and plant sales coming up soon, including Halloween-related fun for the whole family. Upcoming highlights include:
​* Halloween Night Market @ Rozet Nursery
​* Ladies Night Out @ Four Arrows Garden Center
​* Container Gardening that Thrives in Desert Winter @ Tucson Botanical Gardens

Get the details on these events and more in our Tucson Gardening Events Calendar →

Not in Tucson? Look for online classes. You can participate in these no matter where you live.

In Case You Missed It

Aloe ‘Diablo’: Devilishly Attractive​

​Water - Use it Wisely: Free Wildflower Seed Pack

​9 Things to Know Before Buying a Desert Landscape Plant

Garden Quote

"The most lasting and pure gladness comes to me from my gardens." -- Lillie Langtry, actress

Before You Go...

Do you have a gardening question you'd like to see answered here? Send it to ask@swgardener.com.

If you found this information helpful or interesting, please share it with friends! They can sign up for this newsletter here.

And please stop by the Southwest Gardener Facebook page and "Follow", "Like", or "Share".

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Keep growing and learning,
​Desert Dee