Be Inspired Blog | Arizona SummerWinds Nursery

3 different Southwest gardens with native and desert-adapted plants in a cottage garden style.

Native & Desert-Adapted Plants for a Cottage Garden Look

Create a charming, layered cottage garden using native and desert-adapted plants. Discover low-water favorites like desert marigolds, penstemons, and more that thrive in the Valley’s dry climate.

3 images of healthy desert home gardens and landscapes.

Keep Your Plants Healthy All Summer Long

Unfortunately, hand watering just isn’t enough for plants in the greater Metro Phoenix area. Learn how to deep water your plants properly using drip irrigation, and other smart techniques to keep your landscape and container plants healthy all summer long—even if you’re out of town.

Ants on leaves with aphids, scale and mealybugs in the garden.

How to Protect Your Arizona Garden from Ants this Spring

Stop ants from damaging your desert garden this spring. Learn which plants are most at risk and how to prevent and eliminate ant infestations with natural and effective methods.

A Gulf Fritillary butterfly, a Monarch caterpillar, and a Two-tailed swallowtail butterfly.

Beneficial or Harmful? How to Identify Garden Caterpillars in the Valley of the Sun

Learn how to identify beneficial and harmful garden caterpillars in the Valley of the Sun. Discover which species to protect for pollinators and which to manage to prevent plant damage. Get expert tips on natural pest control and butterfly-friendly gardening.

Three AZ backyards with happy trees, shrubs and flowers.

How Deep Watering Builds Strong Roots for Summer-Ready Plants in the Valley of the Sun

Deep watering strengthens roots in the Valley of the Sun’s heat. It improves drought resistance, conserves water, and keeps plants thriving. Learn best practices like proper depth, timing, mulch use, and moisture checks to keep your garden healthy, hydrated, and resilient all summer.