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Hi, Desert Gardener!
While we didn't get any rain from Tropical Storm Lorena, I know some of you have! We at least have had a nice cool down and some clouds. I noticed some of my plants perked up immediately even without rain -- greens looked greener and flowers bloomed more profusely. Have you noticed that, too? But don't get lulled into thinking that heat is behind us. (Last year, the first 13 days of October were over 100.)
🌵 🌵 🌵
You may recall that a few weeks ago I accidentally left my soaker hose on overnight and consequently bought a timer. Well, I just found out that Tucson Water has a program that offers free water conservation devices including hose timers! Now I've got one for each hose. 😉They also have rain gauges, which every desert gardener should have.
What you'll find in this week's newsletter:
- Featured Plant: Gregg's mist 🦋
- Protect your trees from future storm damage 🌩️
- What to do in the garden in September
- Upcoming gardening classes & events
- and more!
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Gregg’s Mist: Flutters of Butterflies
If you’re thinking of starting or expanding a butterfly garden, this is a “must have” addition. Butterflies can’t resist its lavender flowers! Learn the fascinating reason butterflies flock to this plant. It's "complicated".
Read more here →
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Fun Butterfly Fact!
A group of butterflies can be called a swarm, flutter, flight, rabble, wing, or kaleidoscope. 🦋 🦋🦋
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September: What to Do in the Garden This Month
September means the monsoon is winding down and even though it might be fall elsewhere, it’s still summer here. Here’s a look at what you should and shouldn’t plant, what you can fertilize, pests to expect, fruit you can harvest, and more.
Learn more here →
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A Reader Asks:
"I plan to replace some struggling plants with more drought resistant plants this fall. What do you suggest?"
If you're looking for plants that survive our dry summers without a lot of fuss, considering growing native plants which have evolved to thrive in desert conditions. You'll find plant profiles of my favorite native plants here.
The only caveat is that just because a plant is native, doesn't mean it is drought tolerant. For example, Gregg's mist, our featured plant, is native to Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, but naturally grows along stream beds. Consequently, it's not truly drought-tolerant and is one of the thirstier plants in my garden.
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How to Protect Your Trees From Storm Damage
Every monsoon an alarming number of desert trees lose large limbs or are completely uprooted. Why does this happen? What can you do to protect your trees from storm damage? If you have trees, this is "must know" information!
Read more here →
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Tucson Garden Events & Classes
Lots of interesting garden events and classes coming up soon. Highlights include:
* Planting Trees in Pots @ Tucson Botanical Garden (Zoom)
* Free Succulent Saturday @ Four Arrows Garden
* Common Garden Myths @ Pima Co. Master Gardeners
Check out $5 Fridays at Tucson Botanical Gardens (now through September). What a great deal! 🤩
Get the details on these events and more in our Tucson Gardening Events Calendar →
Not in Tucson? Look for classes for everyone offered via Zoom.
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Garden Quote
"Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience." -- Ralph Waldo Emerson, philosopher
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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".
Keep growing and learning,
Desert Dee
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113 Cherry St #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
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