Things to notice:
The Southwest is such a diverse region, during summer months, some areas are dry and dusty, while others are welcoming the annual monsoon rains. Arizona and New Mexico receive up to half of their annual rainfall during the summer monsoon

In the Sonoran desert, saguaro fruit are ready to harvest. Called “Ha: San Bak” by the Tohono O’odham Indian Nation, the Saguaro Fruit Harvest marks the beginning of the year. Saguaro fruit are collected and boiled until they become a sweet tasting syru

Watch for signs of water stress and sunburn on plants. If you’re increasing your watering, check your hose before you spray—beware of hot hose water!

Periwinkle, Vinca minor

“Gardening is cheaper than therapy and you get tomatoes.” –Unknown

Things to do:
Depending upon where you live, now may be the time to harvest almonds, nectarines and grapes.

If you’re looking for flowers to fill in your summer beds, vincas (periwinkles) are the go-to. Native to northwest Africa and southwest Asia, they’re well suited to heat of the Southwest.

Finding too many slugs in your garden? Go out at night, when they’re most active, and drown them in a container of soapy water. Slugs love the yeast in beer, and will willingly drown themselves in any saucers of beer left in the garden overnight.

Garden in the early morning or evening to beat the heat!