Landscaping Trees

COMMENTARY

• Red push pistache trees provide excellent afternoon shade with minimal upkeep
• Mesquite and palo verde recommended for drought tolerant landscapes
• Texas ebony noted for dark green foliage but is thorny
• Ironwood’s historical role as a natural indicator for citrus grove planting
• Navel orange and tangelos citrus trees favored for home fruit production

Real And Artificial Lawns

COMMENTARY

• Bermuda grass thrives in heat but struggles in shade
• Transitioning from rye grass requires lowering mower heights in the spring
• Replacing front yard grass lawns with artificial turf or xeriscaping to save water
• Artificial turf can last 8-10 years with proper maintenance
• Succulents and aloe vera are drought tolerant plants for desert landscapes

WaterUseItWisely.com/blog/plant-of-the-month-partridge-breast-aloe/

Timing To Fertilize

COMMENTARY

• Traditional citrus fertilization dates are Valentines Day, Memorial Day and Labor Day
• Fertilizer composition
  • Nitrogen is the most important nutrient for citrus foliage and growth
  • Phosphorus supports flowering and fruit set
  • Potassium is often adequate in soil
• Organic fertilizers have lower nutrient percentages than conventional ones and require adjusted application rates
• Active growth periods are the best time to fertilize for efficient nutrient uptake