Pima County Master Gardener 23rd Annual Home Garden Tour

This garden has a very mature xeric front yard, which is in total contrast to its very lush backyard. Pathways will take you through cacti, including a golden barrel for each year they have lived there, to many fruit trees, and a beautiful ramada. The idea for this backyard oasis was the English country garden with a southwestern twist. Truly an inspiration for what can be done with a smaller residential lot.

This garden exhibits both cultivated landscape/gardens and open desert in the Tucson Mountain Foothills. The yard features several microclimates, which have been encouraged to maximize the enjoyment of the yard. The love of nature shows in every area of the garden, providing food and water for birds, a family tortoise, and native wildlife. This garden has been created with respect for the environment by focusing on native or desert-adapted plants, water harvesting, and growing food.

This garden is situated with a view across the valley, featuring native plant species, artwork, and specialized habitats for butterflies, birds, and cats. The owner is a self-described “casual gardener” who utilizes low-water use plantings and minimal maintenance to create a beautiful environment. This garden is a wonderful example of a native landscape.

This garden concentrates on attracting butterflies and birds. Many of the plants are nectar or host plants. Water harvesting is prominent throughout this yard, including the use of greywater. The front yard is filled with old growth ocotillo, yucca and palo verde. The patio in the backyard has many beautiful containers and the Arizona room is filled with succulents. This is a garden to relax in and enjoy.