Hi, Desert Gardener,

Here in Tucson, September is closing out with rain and cooler temperatures, giving us a "sneak preview" of fall. It's been delightful!

October is right around the corner, so get ready... this is the month we've all been waiting for! It’s prime time for planting most (but not all) desert landscape plants. Be sure to check out the October monthly "to do" guide which will help you get your new plants off to the best possible start and much more.

And I've included a new feature I hope you find helpful -- an "activity snapshot" for what to do in October. (See below).

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If you plan to plant any trees, large succulents, or make any other significant purchases this fall, this week's featured post is one of the most important things you can read. It will keep you from making expensive and disappointing mistakes. It will also keep you from shopping at a nursery chain known for ripping people off. 😡 (They are found in many SW states -- CA, AZ, NV, TX.) I can't say their name, but an easy hint can be found within the article.

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In this week's newsletter, we cover:

• What to do in the garden in October
• What to know before making a major purchase
• Featured plant: Chitalpa
• Upcoming classes & events
• and more!

🎃 October Activity Snapshot 🎃

Here’s a snapshot of the activities you can and/or should do this month and those you should skip.

See the October Gardening Guide for the details and exceptions.

Upcoming Tucson Events

There are plenty of garden-related activities happening around Tucson. Upcoming highlights include:
* Attract Bees & Butterflies @ Harlow Gardens (10/3)
* Mission Garden @ Seed Swap & Plant Sale (10/3)
* Fall Plant Sale @ Desert Survivors (10/3)

Desert Survivors Fall Plant Sale begins on 10/3 and runs through 10/11. Get the specifics including a list of plants for sale on their Facebook page.

Check out the details and find more events in the Tucson Gardening Event Guide →

Not in Tucson? Look for online classes. Anyone can participate in these.

Garden Quote

"The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all." — line from the movie Mulan

In Case You Missed It

​Kurapia: Promising Desert Lawn Substitute​

​What to Plant in the Fall (Month by Month)

​Javelina Resistant Plant List

Before You Go...

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

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Thank you for being a subscriber. Remember, you can access your free bonus guide, The 7 Most Common Gardening Mistakes, anytime.

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Keep growing and learning,
​Desert Dee