Blog - Urban Farming Education

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Pairing Vegetables in Arizona Gardens

Desert Gardening

Over eons of agriculture, gardeners have learned that different species of plants benefit each other when planted close together. Despite centuries of anecdotal evidence, many skeptics in the gardening community still dispute the value of companion planting and use the lack of laboratory testing to back up their claims.

How to Prevent Insects, Birds, and Other Animals that Destroy Gardens

Everyday Gardening

The world would be a lifeless husk if we didn't have insects, birds, and other animals to help maintain the ecological balance. Still, that doesn't mean we should let insects have their run of the garden or provide a buffet for the local rabbit population and birdlife. As gardeners, we will always have pests eyeing our hard work as a potential meal, but the goal should be control rather than eradication.

Gardening During the Pandemic - How to Get Started and Stay Safe

Everyday Gardening

With the COVID-19 pandemic maintaining its grip on the planet, more people are staying at home. An interesting side-effect of a house-bound populace is a sudden surge in interest for gardening. Maintaining a garden at home is one thing. However, gardening is not always a solitary activity - neighbors often share gardening space while others head off to the community garden with friends.

A Bountiful Harvest of Edible Native Plants in Arizona

Desert Gardening

The hot and dry desert landscapes of Arizona would appear barren of anything edible, at least, nothing tasty that isn't covered in nasty looking prickles. However, if you take the time to explore a little deeper, you will find many delicious ingredients for your dining pleasure. Read on to discover unique flavors and textures you can use in everything from salads to cookies and ice cream.

Keeping Your Garden Safe from Arizona Garden Pests

Desert Gardening

Insects are an essential part of the ecology, but that doesn't mean you need to let them destroy your hard work in your garden or share your harvest with them. Knowing which Arizona garden pests are most likely to invade your garden is an excellent first step in preventing an infestation and protecting not just your garden, but your neighbor's as well. Read on to learn more about Arizona garden pests that might be preying on your garden, and a few tips on safely dealing with them.

Gardening in Small Spaces in Phoenix, Arizona

Desert Gardening

Just because you live in an apartment, or don't have much yard, doesn't mean you have to miss out on the joys of gardening. Creative use of containers and vertical spaces combined with smart plant choices means you can have thriving green areas around your home, no matter its size. Villas and townhouses with small courtyards, rental properties, and apartments with balconies are all prime locations for small gardens where space is at a premium. Use your imagination to indulge your passion and read through the rest of this article for inspiration.

How to Germinate a Seed

Everyday Gardening

Whether you are a veteran gardener, or you have just noticed a new shade of green on your thumbs and want to explore your options, growing plants and mucking about with nature can be incredibly rewarding. Using seedlings or potted plants from the nursery is quick and convenient, but it's not the cheapest way to populate your garden beds.

Low Maintenance Desert Plants

Desert Gardening

Deciding to plant a native species garden is a great choice. It can help the sustainability of local insects and animals in your area and will also conserve more water than having a traditional lawn. It makes sense to try to conserve as much water as you can while living in the desert to remain eco-friendly and reduce the cost of your water bill. Another benefit of having a yard or garden filled with desert plants is the drastically lower amount of both time and energy dedicated to maintaining it as opposed to a traditional lawn.

Everything You Should Know About Vertical Gardening in Arizon

Desert Gardening

Patric Blanc, a world-renowned botanist, is the inventor of the vertical garden. His vertical lush, green landscapes have been putting down roots into iconic structures around the world. From Bangkok, Thailand to Sydney, Australia, Blanc's vertical gardens beautify the urban landscape in dozens of major cities around the globe. Vibrant garden landscapes scaling the walls of high-rises are inspirational in demonstrating what's possible with vertical gardening.

Mulching in the Desert and What it Can do For Your Garden

Everyday Gardening

The importance of organic mulch is frequently underrated and misunderstood. However, mulch plays a critical role in Arizona gardens, especially during water shortages and record high temperatures. If you aren't all that familiar with mulch and how it can help your garden, keep reading. By the end of this article, you should have a firm grasp on mulching and can look forward to a lush, vibrant garden.

Five Useful Plants to Grow in Your Garden

Desert Gardening

Starting a garden in Phoenix, Arizona is a difficult task due to its extreme heat during the summer months and the not ideal natural soil conditions. It takes planning and effort to create a garden bed suitable to grow a wide range of plants. A benefit of gardening in Phoenix, Arizona in particular is that you have the ability to garden year-round with multiple growing seasons appropriate for different types of plants.

Ten Raised Garden Bed Ideas

Everyday Gardening

Raised garden beds add a level of versatility to your gardening that would not otherwise be possible. You can use them to add another layer of pest and animal protection, increase your gardening area, or create an attractive design feature.