Rescue, Reuse, Reclaim—and Roses

This home garden consists primarily of rescued cactus and succulents thereby creating low-maintenance spaces which require less water.  Rainwater harvesting provides water for beautiful roses and citrus, and French drains allow the garden to have level surfaces and make it handicap accessible.  A natural turf area has been converted to artificial turf which extends the patio to allow more space for entertaining.

Areas of Interest: cacti and succulents, sun vs shade, roses and rainwater harvesting

Spines, Prickles, Thorns and Teeth

From a vacant lot, the homeowner has created beautiful courtyards with artwork, native trees and vines, numerous perennials, and raised beds of roses and evergreens.  The collection of unusual cacti and succulents, a bonsai aloe, a crested cactus, and living rocks are tastefully coordinated with beautiful pots.  Be sure to see the Lady Banks Roses along the courtyard and the lovely path through the arroyo filled with native plants that leads back to your car.

Areas of Interest: roses, cactus and container gardening

Serenity on the Mountain

Built in the shadow of the Santa Catalinas on open rangeland, this home garden has changed with each successive owner adding plants and different types of irrigation.  The current owners have created garden rooms to enjoy the mountain views with native plants and an enclosed garden for fresh vegetables and herbs.  Rainwater harvesting from the ramada and barn provides irrigation and informal composting of garden waste along with a barrel composter for kitchen waste, enriching the soil for the many beautiful plants.

*This garden can only be accessed by a provided shuttle bus or via a Virtual Video at the Extension.

Areas of Interest: water-harvesting, raised beds, garden art, wild life

The Wild Side

In five years, the homeowners have added fruit trees, an enclosed vegetable garden, vines, native trees, succulents, and flowers to this one-acre property.  Sustainable water practices have been incorporated to meet the water needs including passive rainwater catchment basins filled by runoff from the street, cisterns filled from the roof and a laundry-to-landscape system. As you walk the paths enjoying each section of the gardens, be sure to visit the desert tortoise enclosure and enjoy the views from many different areas in this garden. You don’t want to miss the enchanting children’s garden created by the children themselves.  

Areas of Interest: wildlife and pollinator gardens, vegetable and fruit trees, desert tortoise enclosure and water conservation