We can level that playing field, though, with our indoor envirnoments — we’re all [...]]]> High-altitude or low-altitude, those of us who live in desert landscaping environments will never have the lush exterior gardening experience those in high-moisture/high humidity climates are blessed with, but, we don’t have the humidity, bugs, mildew and other unwanted growing things, either!

We can level that playing field, though, with our indoor envirnoments — we’re all pretty much climate-controlled these days.  However, bringing desert landscaping indoors isn’t as simple as putting potted plants by windows, unless you’re going to stick with succulents, fronds, and ferns.

To really add some diversity, utility and “pop,” why not add some aerogardens to your decorating scheme? Besides the sheer delight of adding beauty to your sanctuary areas, there’s also the utility of being able to grow flowers, herbs and salad greens for your family. Imagine bud vases sprinkled around the house with your favorite cutting flowers, adding indoor cheer to winter. The best chefs will tell you cooking is all about high quality ingredients, and why not treat your family and friends to new culinary experiences by adding fresh herbs and just-picked greens to the plate?

The biggest advantage to adding aerogardens to the desert landscaping indoors, is, of course, simplicity — they are their own light source, they water themselves, all you need to do is pick the spot and enjoy!  Even those problem areas with little or no light can come alive and be an inviting place of comfort and joy with an aerogarden, (as long as there’s reasonable air circulation, of course).

Give the gift of growing, to yourself, your family, or your friends over the holidays. Nothing is more welcome, or black-thumb proof, than indoor gardening with aerogardens.

For lower elevations, your [...]]]> Desert landscaping challenges are certainly varied. In the high country, snow season is well underway. In the lower elevations, bring on the joy! These are the months to savor! Regardless of your desert garden’s latitude, new plants and garden supplies are always a lift as the sunlight diminishes.

For lower elevations, your desert landscaping seasons are a little tricky, but now is a wonderful time to plant frost hardy specimens for a vigorous spring start.  Also, think about incorporating cold-hardy but fast maturing vegetables and herbs — kale, rhubarb, spinach, even lettuce will be a bounteous green addition to the desert garden AND the kitchen table!  To add even more texture and interest, think about adding attractive and practical garden supplies storage such as a dual purpose storage bench.

In the higher desert landscaping elevations, it’s time to turn our attention to the indoor garden. Garden supplies for indoor gardening can be both fun, decorative, and indoor plants add some air filtration and replenishment to your home and environment.

Some suggestions –

Flowers — did you know some hardy summer annuals will flower all winter long, providing beautiful flowers to brighten your indoor environment? I have petunias, which I’ve been growing in a south window all summer, which will continue to bloom until next year. Petunias are beautiful, surprisingly fragrant cut flowers, excellent in small groups for bud vases and small necked containers.

Herbs — fresh herbs are an amazing gastronomic treat, and can easily be grown indoors with good sun.

Finally, remember when choosing varietals for indoor winter gardening or your outdoor desert garden, choose plants which can thrive in partial shade. Even in a south facing window or with southern exposure, plants will only receive maybe six to eight hours of sun per day, depending on your latitude.

Hopefully you’ve set a schedule for routine maintenance (watering, weed and pest control).  This is the perfect time to mentally “see” your desert landscaping at its peak, and work on making it your dream retreat.

Envision your area and its plantings in three dimensions, and as it will grow in the [...]]]> The plants are in, what next?

Hopefully you’ve set a schedule for routine maintenance (watering, weed and pest control).  This is the perfect time to mentally “see” your desert landscaping at its peak, and work on making it your dream retreat.

Envision your area and its plantings in three dimensions, and as it will grow in the coming months — will there be tall plants that could use support or accent to provide interest and texture in the dimension of height?  Staking options can be as simple as scavenged branches or long-lasting, even whimsical, with ornate stakes and plant supports.

Will the area benefit by paths to provide definition and draw visitors into the area?   There is such an opportunity to be creative and delight the eye with the lay-out, edging and surface treatments available for paths.

In all but the most formal gardens, curved patterns create interest.  The edges can be undefined and naturalized, flowing into the landscaped area, practical rubberized or metal edging to contain materials and create separation, or can be a design element themselves as would be the case with brick or molded edging pavers.

The surface treatment options can also be inspiring…perhaps irregular, smooth stone for visual interest, while still being barefoot friendly.  Practical mulches, either natural or of recycled material, are relatively inexpensive and virtually zero maintenance, if a proper barrier is installed underneath.

Also consider screening and fencing as accents to your slice of paradise.  Bamboo or willow screens are perfect for heat-sensitive plants, protecting them from full sun while providing plenty of air movement for plant growth and health.  Low fencing materials also provide vertical interest, and can introduce contrast color or just be plain fun for the eye.

Nothing is more captivating, particularly during summer, than the allure of water.  Small pond areas, or recirculating inground or above-ground fountains, mysteriously calm the mind and invoke peaceful, tranquil states.

Most importantly, see your desert landscaping as an extension of your home’s liveable area, invest in making it attractive and inviting.  The outdoors is our natural environment; natural light and fresh air are essential to our mental and physical well-being.  It takes a creative approach, but you can make sanctuary spaces in your desert landscaping, even in summer.

Create your dream outdoor retreat, and save with free shipping this weekend!

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