June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County from ME to Y O U Master Gardeners Are Making a Difference

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

6 Children Know Once They Grow 8 Landscaping Responsibly 12 Summer Corn: ATempting Tradition 16 Going to Bat for Bats 18 The Prickly Pear: Handle with Care! 22 Tra veling Garde n e r : Summers Past Far m INSIDE THIS ISSUE Master Gardener Journal

From Me to You: Master Gardeners are Making a Difference 3 Calendar of Events 4 Things to Expect & Do 5 Children Know Once They Grow 6 Better Landscape Design: Landscaping Responsibly 8 Special Feature: Of Blue Skies and Brilliant Sunsets 11 Computer Corner 11 A Bountiful Garden: Summer Corn, ATempting Tradition 12 Creature Comforts: Going to Bat for Bats 16 Ask a Gardener: Underappreciated Desert Trees 17 Meet the Natives: The Prickly Pear, Handle with Care! 18 Neophyte Nook: Birds in the Garden 20 Summer Tree Care: Watering & Plant Care Tips for Summer Sizzle 21 Garden-Smart Tips 21 The Traveling Gardener: Summers Past 22 Word Wise 23

Maricopa County Master Gardeners: Cultivating Plants,People & Communities since 1980 Master Garden volunteers are trained by University of Arizona faculty and staff during a 17-week course. Th e y provide educational leadership to the community with res e a r ch-based horticulture knowledge.Volunteers promote efficient use of wat e r , fe r - ti l i z e r s , and pesticides, and pres e r vation of our desert envi ro n m e n t . Ed i t o r : Candice Sherrill, [email protected] Co p y Editors:Vicki Bundy, v i c k i 2 5 0 1 @ c o x . n e t ,B a r b a ra Hamilton, [email protected] De s i g n / L a you t : Donna A t wo o d ,a t wooddesign.com Web s i t e : Jo Cook, he m i s p h e re s i n t e r n e t . c o m The Master Gardener Jou r n a l , published 6 times a year by Maricopa County Master Garde n e r s , is printed on rec ycled paper under the direction of the Maricopa County Cooperative Extension Office, 4341 E. Bro a d way Rd., Ph o e n i x , AZ 85040-8807. Phone 602-470-8086 Ext. 30 1 . Fax 602-470-8092. Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p. m .w e e k d ay s . Home page: http://ag.arizona.edu/maricopa/garde n / Subscriptions: Available to the public for $18 for 6 issues.Rate for active Master Gardeners $15 or free online at http://ag.arizona.edu/maricopa/garden/html/pubs/mgjournal.htm.Send name,mailing address,and a check payable to University of Arizona.Mail to: Maricopa County Cooperative Extension, ATTN: MG Journal Subscriptions,4341 E.Broadway Rd.,Phoenix,AZ 85040-8807. Northwest Valley Satellite location: Property Owners & Residents Association (PORA) Office 13815 Camino del Sol Blvd.,Sun City West,AZ 85375.Phone 623-546-1672.Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.Monday-Friday. East Valley Satellite location: East Mesa Multigenerational Center 7550 E.Adobe Rd.,Mesa,AZ 85207.Phone 480-985-0338.Hours: 9 a.m.-noon,Mondays and Thursdays. Northeast Valley Satellite location: Via Linda Senior Center 10440 E. Via Linda,Scottsdale,AZ 85258.Phone 480-312-5810.Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays. Urban Horticulture Staff: Lucy K.Bradley, Extension Agent,602-470-8086 Ext.323,[email protected] Kathleen Moore,Instructional Specialist,602-470-8086 Ext.306,[email protected] Kelly Young,Program Coordinator, 602-470-8086 Ext.311, [email protected] Trade names given herein are supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended by the University of Arizona and no endorsement or criticism of similar products is implied. Persons with a disability ma y request a reasonable accommodation, such as a sign language interpret e r , at all events sponsored by the University of Ar i z o n a . Call 602-470-8086. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time for arran g e m e n t s . Cover Photos: (clockwise from top left) Xeriscape and Prickly Pear by Candice Sherrill, Kid’s Garden courtesy Cooperative Extension, Indian Corn by Donna Atwood Lucy Bradley,Extension Agent,Urban Horticulture

Page 2 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County FROM ME TO Y O U Master Gardeners are Making a Difference

by Lucy K. Bradley, Extension Agent, of Nutrition Services to bring 543 Arizona Community Tree Council. Urban Horticulture students from 10 schools to the • Working Group Grant - Jun i o r Extension Office Outdoor Learning Master Gardener Statewide Trai n i n g , ith over 3 million people in Center for a Five-A- Day/ G a rd e n $5 , 7 3 1 , University of Ar i z o n a WMaricopa County, a large per- Nutrition Prog ra m . “The kids love d Co o p e r ative Extension. centage of them newcomers to the the hands-on experience and I was • Arizona Department of Education, So n o r an Desert, the need for public glad that they were able to learn $5 , 5 0 0 , Pr i n t i n g , Pos t a g e , education reg a r ding appropriate selec- about plants in a new setting. Th e Re g i s t r ation Pac k e t s . ti o n , placement and care of plants is trip was really well orga n i z e d . ” • National Junior Master Garde n e r tre m e n d o u s . The Master Gardener pro- (Anna Shetty, 3r d grade teacher, Of f i c e , $9 9 0 , to sponsor Award s . gr am seeks to improve the health of Hamilton Elementary School • Arizona Department of Health plants and people, while prom o t i n g 11 / 1 / 0 2 ) . Se rv i c e s , $5 0 0 , to Underwrite env i r onmental responsibility in the gar- • Planned Interpretive Trail: Began to Sp e a k e r . de n . This includes the efficient use of cr eate an envi r onmental education • World Hunger Ecumenical Ar i z o n a wat e r , fe r t i l i z e r s , and pesticides, and the in t e r p r etive trail based on wat e r , Task Forc e , $2 0 0 , to sponsor speaker. reduction of green was t e . pl a n t , and nitrogen cyc l e s . A hearty and sincere thanks to each of • Enhanced the Youth Gardening Web YOUTH GARDENING/ you who have had a part in this signifi- Si t e . GR O WING AWAR E N E S S cant and impressive group of accom- • Supported the Youth Gardening List Maricopa County Master Garde n e r s pl i s h m e n t s . I look forwar d to all we will Se rv e , which enables 115 subscribers make a difference by working to continue to achieve in 2003. ■ connected with youth gardens to in c r ease the knowledge, skills and sh a r e information and find answers mo t i v ation of teachers, p a re n t s ,a d m i n- to their questions. is t ra t o r s , and community members to • Cr eated and maintained a database (1) manage effective, sustainable you t h of school gardening contacts: We and community gardens and (2) use continue to maintain and expand a the gardens as a tool for experiential “Of all human activities, database of 1,800 orga n i z a t i o n s , learning of life skills (including health ag e n c i e s , sc h o o l s , and individuals apart from the procreation and nutrition, res p o n s i b i l i t y , cr i t i c a l in volved with youth garde n i n g th i n k i n g , planning and much more) , of children, gardening is the ef f o r t s , and shared res o u r ces and academic subjects, and envi ro n m e n t a l expertise to make these prog ra m s most optimistic and hopeful. st e ward s h i p . ex c e l . IN 2002, MASTER GARDENERS: The gardener is by defini- • Responded to 455 individual phone, GRANTS AND GIFTS RECEIVED: tion one who plans for and mail, email, and in-person requests. • Digging Deeper - Statewide You t h believes and trusts in a • Co o r dinated annual Youth and Ga r dening Training Institute, Community Gardening Conferen c e $100,326 USDA via Ar i z o n a future, whether in the short for 250 participants.“This was SO Department of Education. much more than I expected - What a • Food Stamp Matching Funds, or the longer term.” t re a t ! ! ”( S u rv ey Response 2002). $9 8 , 9 8 0 , Arizona Nutrition Networ k . — SUSAN HILL • Taught 60 participants in wor k s h o p s • Env i r onmental License Plate Fund, and trai n i n g . $3 0 , 0 0 0 , State Land Department. •Par t n e r ed with Maricopa County • Master Gardener Tour - Real Department of Public Health Office Ga r dens for Real Pe o p l e ,$ 8 , 0 3 0 ,

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 3 P L A N N I N G A H E A D Calendar of Events

JU N E , 20 0 3 showcase of gardens and ens into a rich, sweet syrup. 6/3 — Pr o p a g a t i o n . Tue s d a y, 6:00 pm wealth of family centered Learn about other desert to 8:30 pm at the Extension Office. Le t activities promises to make plants that were important our master gardeners show you how to this a conference you’ll long food sources for native successfully propagate your favo r i t e remember! Prog r am topics: people and about the ani- plants and watch your collection multi- A major theme of the con- mals that use the saguaro pl y . With the right techniques, you will fe r ence will be biodiversity for food and shelter. $6 7 ha ve plenty of plants to share. Pr i c e : as it effects landscape man- members; $75 non-mem- 20 . 0 0 . Re g i s t r ation re q u i re d .A d d re s s : agement and envi r onmental stewar d- be r s . Register online at: https://secure. Co o p e r ative Extension office, 4341 E. sh i p . This will be emphasized in: da k o t a c o m . n e t / d e s e r t m u s e u m / l i n k / s o n Bro a d way Road, Ph o e n i x . Co n t a c t : Nationally recognized speakers to chal- ora n s t u d i e s re g i s t ra t i o n . h t m l . Ai n s l e y LaCour at ainsley@ a z o rc h i d s . lenge your thinking. Ha n d s - o n 6/27 — West Nile Vir u s . Fr i d a y, 9: 0 0 co m . Phone (602) 470-8086. Web s i t e : Workshops that provide take-home am to noon. Dr . Da wn Gouge, ht t p : / / a g . a r i z o n a . e d u / m a r i c o p a / g a rd e n / . ideas for future projects as you networ k Assistant Entomology Specialist for the with colleagues from other states. Trad e 6/7 — Water Wise Workshop Series: Maricopa Ag r i c u l t u r al Center will speak show with nationally recognized ven- ”Y ou Call THIS Soil?” Sa t u rd a y, 9: 0 0 to Master Gardeners about the Wes t do r s . Local tours and attractions that am in Sierra Vi s t a .S a n dy Kun z e r , Nile Virus in the Palo Ver de room at the highlight horticulture in Kentucky and Ge o l o g i s t , and Betsy Kun z e r , Phy s i c a l main extension office. Ad d re s s : Oh i o . Price: TBA . Re g i s t r ation req u i re d . Sc i e n t i s t . Price: Fre e .A d d ress: UA Co o p e r ative Extension office, 4341 E. Ad d r ess: Northern Kentucky So u t h , 1140 N. Co l o m b o , Si e r r a Vis t a , Bro a d way Road, Ph o e n i x . Co n vention Center, Cov i n g t o n , KY . AZ . Contact: Cado Daily at cdaily@ag. Subject: Contact: Bobbi Strangeld at JU L Y, 20 0 3 ar i z o n a . e d u . Phone (520) 458-8278. st ra n g f e l d 1 @ p o s t o f f i c e . a g . o h i o - 7/8 — The Ins and Outs of Home Website: http://ag.arizona.edu/ st a t e . e d u , phone (513) 946-8986. Water Management. Tuesday, 6:30 pm co c h i s e / wa t e r w i s e / . Website: http://masterga rd e n e r. o s u . e d u / to 9:00 pm in Gilbert. Learn where 6/10 — The Ins and Outs of Home im g c 2 0 0 3 . our water comes fro m , how to re a d Water Management. Tue s d a y, 6:30 pm your meter, and learn simple tips to 6/21 — Summer Plant Sale. Sa t u rd a y, to 9:00 pm. in Gilbert. Learn where our reduce your water consumption and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Ar b o r etum in water comes from , how to read you r c o s t s . Class offered by the Town of Fl a g s t a f f . Choose from hundreds of me t e r , and learn simple tips to red u c e Gilbert Water Conservation Office. high elevat i o n , dr ought tolerant plants. your water consumption and costs. Price: Fre e . R e g i s t ration re q u i re d . Fr ee admission. Class offered by the Town of Gilbert A d d ress: Regional Libra ry - 775 N. Water Conservation Office. Price: Free . 6/21 and again on 6/26 — Sa g u a r o G reenfield Rd. S/E/C Greenfield & Re g i s t r ation re q u i re d .A d d re s s : Fruit Harves t . Sa t u rd a y, and again on Guadalupe Roads. Contact: Lisa Regional Librar y - 775 N. Gre e n f i e l d Th u r s d a y, 7:00 am to 1:00 pm both Hemphill at [email protected]. Rd . S/E/C Greenfield & Guadalupe da ys at the Ar i z o n a - S o n o r a Desert Phone:(480) 503-6878. We b s i t e : Ro a d s . Contact: Lisa Hemphill at lisa- Mu s e u m . The Sonoran Desert silently h t t p : / / w w w. c i . g i l b e r t . a z . u s / wa t e r. he m @ c i . g i l b e r t . a z . u s . Phone:(480) 503- ce l e b r ates its new year with the 7/12 — Bi r d Wal k . Sa t u rd a y, 7:30 am 68 7 8 . Website: http://www.c i . g i l b e r t . a z . swelling of the saguaro’ s rosy fruits. to 9:00 am at the Ar b o r etum in us / wa t e r . Join us to gather and prep a r e saguaro Fl a g s t a f f . Led by experts. Meet by fron t fruits in the traditional O’odham man- 6/19 thru 6/22 — International Master door of Ar b o re t u m . Fre e . Br i n g , or bor- ne r , using a harvesting pole made from Ga r dener Conference 2003. Th u r s d a y row our binoculars. the ribs of the giant cactus, then cook thru Sunday. Come with us to celebrat e the fruit for seve r al hours until it thick- ga r dening in the Ohio River Val l e y. Th e

Page 4 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County by Candice Sherrill, Master Gardener Things to Expect & Things to Do by Terry H. Mikel, Extension Agent, Commercial Horticulture

CITRUS FRUIT DROP should be finished. Na vels consistently win the prize for most drop p e d . FALSE CHINCH BUGS migrate to greener pastures as the desert dries in the he a t . The dry winter has reduced their numbers dram a t i c a l l y . ME T ALLIC FLEA BEETLES make their annual presence known. Th e y are especially fond of Mexican primrose (Oenothera berlandieri), and provide a 7/12 — Going Bats. S a t u rd ay, 5:00 pm much-needed pruning to this plant. to 8:00 pm at the A r i z o n a - S o n o ra LA WNS will begin to show stressed areas if the sprinklers are not putting out Desert Museum. T h ey use night as water uniformly over the area . their cover and are shrouded in my s- t e ry and misunderstanding. But we’ll BR O WN BEETLES suddenly appearing around the lawn indicate emerge n c e t h row some light on one of the most and mating time. Treat 45 days to 2 months after first seeing small (1/2 to 5/8 intriguing desert animals - Bats! Learn inches long) brown beetles near lawn area s . Waiting this time allows all the em e rg e n c e , ma t i n g , and egg laying of the beetles to happen. how they make our desert more beautiful and more liva b l e . Join us as we CI CA D AS buzz incessantly, marking the beginning of summer as no other sign. s e p a rate fact from fiction on the 28 ANTS AND TERMITES become more active and swarm during Ar i z o n a ’ s d i f f e rent bat species in Southern summer storm season. Look for swarms on hot sultry mornings. To distin- A r i z o n a , then take a trip out onto the guish ants from termites, th e r e are two things to look for: 1) ants have a tight ASDM grounds to study the animals constriction between the head/thorax and the abdomen, and 2) ant antennae in action. Instructor: Karen Kre b b s , bend to nearly 90 degrees about halfway out. ASDM Conservation Biologist. $ 3 6 TO ADSTOOLS AND SLIME FUNGI increase around the landscape with the members; $40 non-members.You can warm wetness of the season. Though some may be edible, do n ’ t chance it. My register online at: https://secure . d a k o- criteria for eating a wild mushroom is letting someone with over 30 years of t a c o m . n e t / d e s e r t m u s e u m / l i n k / s o n o- experience choose it. One wrong choice can ruin your day. ra n s t u d i e s re g i s t ra t i o n . h t m l . PALO VERDE BEETLES continue to emerge from the ground under infested 7/26 — Wil d f l o wer Wal k . Sa t u rd a y, tre e s . Ex t r a TLC remains the best trea t m e n t . Re m e m b e r , Palo Ver de Borer s 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Ar b o r etum in ha ve been found on many other types of trees; especially (but not necessarily) Fl a g s t a f f . Limited to 15 participants. ones with tap roo t s . Re s e r vations req u i re d . Fr ee guided wal k FERTILIZE CITRUS after the annual natural fruit thinning. Doing it before the in the Upper West Fork of Oak Cree k dr op will make you think the fertilizer caused it. The next time is Ca n yon . August/September prior to fruit sizing time. 7/26 — Learn Your Lizards Wal k . WATCH LAWNS FOR SIGNS of poor wat e r i n g . If some areas look weak, Sa t u rd a y, 9:00 am to 11:00 am at Boyc e check to ensure even water distribution by putting out cans and checking the Thompson Ar b o re t u m , 37615 Hwy 60, amount after a normal wat e r i n g . This will quickly slow any va r i a t i o n .A re a s Su p e r i o r .Visitors spotted dozens of with less water need attention to those sprinklers. By fixing the poor sprin- entertaining reptiles during the kl e r s , you won ’ t over water the rest to supply the weak. Ar b o re t u m ’ s guided tours last summer. HA R VEST WI L D F L O WER SEEDS from your beds for next season. A simple Various colorful and comical lizards are way is to put a brown paper bag over the whole plant and pull it up. This lets common along the 1.5-mile main trai l . the seeds stay in the bag. Arizona Game and Fish Department MULCH SOIL SURFACES of tree s , shrubs and flowerbeds to keep root zones herpetologist Daren Riedle will lead cooler and to minimize evap o r ation loss of wat e r . walks lasting two hours up the main tra i l . Participants should carry binocu- PRUNE AND PLANT PALMS in the summer. Warm soils stimulate the roo t s lars and water bottles. Wear a hat and to start growing and the flower spikes are there for easy rec o g n i t i o n . dr ess for a warm day. ■ WATER CAR E F U L L Y for better plant growth and to save wat e r . The wat e r i n g needs of plants increase with hot, dr y weather. Be attentive to wilt symptoms. Water deeply, but only as often as necessary to maintain good grow t h . Remember the 1 - 2 - 3 rule.

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 5 SCHOOL GARDENING Children Know Once They Grow

by Becky McAneny, Master Gardener adults will have to drag hoses and help the children decide where plant- sprinklers to the garden when wat e r i n g ing beds and paths will be located. Th e ids play in the mud, dig for wor m s , needs to be done. Dr ainage is another plan is easy to follow after putting the Kand catch bugs. Th e y also roll in important considerat i o n . If the garde n design on paper. the gras s , hide in the bushes, and jump is full of puddles after wat e r i n g , no t Ne x t , get out those shovels and rak e s ! into piles of leave s . Not only are these only will you have soggy plants but you It ’ s energy time—time to clear the area ch i l d r en having fun, but they are also will also have soggy kids. One way to and physically mark the gard e n .W h e n learning about soil, wat e r , wi g g l y , turn on the energy switch in kids is to eve r y child has his or her own tool to cr awling things, and plants. us e , th e y can actively show their own- Such activities can be developed into a ership in the garden plot by digging out teaching prog r am for kids. El e m e n t a r y weeds or raking up leave s , st i c k s , school gardens involve math, sc i e n c e , stones and other debris. In addition, and English, and they are quickly the children lay out the planting area s becoming an important educational and pathways by hammering stakes in to o l . Some educators are seeing an the ground around the borders and im p r ovement in classroom interest and connecting them with string. The last in test scores among children who are step in developing the site is for eve r y- in volved in garden pro g ra m s . Ch i l d re n one to use a shovel to loosen and turn use science and math to choose a loca- the soil, and if necessary add fertilizer tion and design for their gard e n .T h ey or compost. also learn what they need to do to pre- Ev e r yone involved in the process gets pa r e their new garden for planting and excited at this point. It ’ s time to decide how to maintain it. Th e y dig up wor m s what to plant. The third major step in and learn how they help the soil, an d the development of the garden is to how to use a ruler by measuring plant- ha ve the kids look at calendars to see ing row s . The experience of creating a what plants to consider for the time of ga r den enriches the lives of both the year and location. After they have cho- adults and the children who wor k sen their favorite vegetables, fruits and together planning and nurturing their hand them a shov e l .T h ey can help fill fl o w e r s , the kids plant seeds or tran s - outdoor classroo m . in the puddles with soil so the grou n d plants with another round of wild Once the school sets up the garde n is leve l . Co n venient access to the gar- en t h u s i a s m . The children plant row s pro g ra m , the fun begins! den from the classrooms will be impor- with curves and angles that are not on the original plan, and often the daisies The first step is to walk with the chil- ta n t . Teachers and students can easily ar e next to the cauliflower. Then after dr en around the campus and decide on extend their classroom activities outside the planting is finished, the adult a site for the gard e n .T h ey need to when the garden is located nearby. “G a r den Fai r i e s ” water the garden as choose a place that will have 6 to 8 The next step is to design and deve l o p ne e d e d , and eve r yone looks forwar d to hours of sunlight each day. One way to the site. It ’ s important to think small. If seeing the res u l t s . During this period help them understand this concept is to the garden is too large , weeding and the children can help maintain the gar- show them where shadows fall arou n d watering can become ove r w h e l m i n g de n , and can create journals of their their school. Another important site ta s k s . An easy way to involve the stu- successes and failures so they can learn co n s i d e r ation is how water will be dents is to get out a large sheet of fr om them. br ought to the garde n . Unless a wat e r - br own paper and give them crayon s . ing system is installed, one of the Dr aw an outline of the garde n , an d The final step in the proc e s s , after the

Page 6 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County A NEW WAY OF CONTRIBUTING by Ron Mark, Master Gardener

s a Master Garde n e r , I have experienced firsthand the incredible atti- Atude of volunteerism from Master Garde n e r s . Being past president of the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association and having served on the bo a r ds of other non-profit orga n i z a t i o n s , I have never seen as much cr ops have grow n , is to invite the direc - enthusiasm and willingness of people to give of their time. Th e r e has been tor of the local food bank and have the another “Call for Ac t i o n . ”This call for action is far kids harvest food to donate. Then it’s mo r e difficult… the call for monetary support. time for celebrating the garden with a feast at the school! Show the children An endowment has been set up with Th e recipes for the foods that were grow n , University of Arizona Fo u n d a t i o n .T h e and help them cook the fruits (or veg- monies contributed will directly benefit gies) of their labor for their families. the Master Gardening Pro g ra m .T h e In vite a newspaper reporter to publicize endowment is not meant to cover the your successful garde n , and watch the te m p o ra r y shortfalls that you have ch i l d r en stretch their necks with pride recently heard about, but to build on the as they tell about the tiny carrots and successes of the Prog r am for the future. the giant squash they grew and then Our company last year started a horticultural co o k e d . se r vice called CHAMP. CHAMP has pledged to When children grow an outdoor class- donate a mere $1.00 per service call each month to the endowment fund. It roo m , th e y become little scientists. Th e y is not much now, but it is a start. As our business grow s , the contribution learn patience and critical thinking. Th e will grow . It is also our plan to ask our clients to support the endowment pr ocess of planning a garden for an by adding whatever amount they wish to their service amount as their con- el e m e n t a r y school fosters pride, tr i b u t i o n . We have requested that the money that CHAMP sends be spent res p o n s i b i l i t y , self- confidence, an d for the Youth Gardening Prog ra m . The Master Gardening Prog r am has community spirit in eve r yone who given so much to me, and yes I have given some of my time, but now I takes part in this hands-on educational really feel I can make a differen c e ! ■ ex p e r i e n c e . Is there a small way you could contribute to the endowment? Be crea t i v e ! If you are unable, you may know individuals or companies that would be willing to help. Again be crea t i v e , make a list and send the informa- “A gardener is never shut tion to Lucy Brad l e y.You might even contribute by serv- out from his garden, wher- ing on a committee to contact possible donors. Let us know how you can help. ■ ever he may be. Its comfort never fails.Though the city may close about him, and the grime and soot descend upon him, he can still wan- der in his garden, does he but close his eyes.” —BEVERLEY NICHOLS

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 7 BETTER LANDSCAPE DESIGN Landscaping Re s p o n s i b l y

e see it in the newspaper head- pl a n , choosing appropriate plants, ir r i - n e c e s s a ry for those with small chil- Wlines and hear it on the eve n i n g gating efficiently, and limiting fertilizer d ren or pets. If you must have one, ne ws… seve r e drought conditions, and chemical use are the keys to consider limiting its size and make gro u n d water and soil contamination, responsible landscaping. certain your sprinklers are directed at rising levels of pollutants. As if that the lawn so you are n ’t irrigating yo u r THE PLAN is n ’ t troublesome enough our natural patio or sidewa l k . Whether landscaping a new home, ren - res o u r ces are in jeopardy; explosive ovating your current landscape or mak- Pools are high priority items in our hot population growth in Maricopa County ing minor changes in your yard , desert climate, but they involve using a along with the lack of substantial pre- de velop a design that will have a mini- co n s i d e r able quantity of water and cipitation has many wondering how mum impact on the envi ro n m e n t . ch e m i c a l s . A pool cover minimizes long we will have an adequate supply Think carefully about how you use you r water evap o r ation and chemical of wat e r . yard . Be creative in finding ways to req u i re m e n t s . If you love the idea of Th a t ’ s the bad news… the good news limit your water use. ha ving a water feature in your yard , is that the manner in which we design th e r e are many attractive alternatives Ha r dscape features such as patios, fi r e- and maintain our home landscapes can such as fountains and ponds. places and pathways can make you r make a significant differen c e . landscape more livable—and they don’t Plan for a “m i n i - o a s i s ” if you love grow - Establishing and maintaining a verda n t need to be wat e re d ! ing roses or other plants with high landscape in the desert and being envi - water req u i re m e n t s . Plant them near Maintaining a lawn re q u i res a ronmentally responsible can go hand in patios and seating areas where you can t remendous amount of water and fer- ha n d . De veloping an earth-friendly en j o y them. t i l i z e r. Some will argue that a lawn is THE PLANTS Select native and desert-adapted vege- ta t i o n . These plants have evolved in ways that allow them to thrive in our arid climate. Sm a l l , na r r ow leave s , li g h t gr een or gray foliage, and other leaf modifications are just a few ways that these unique plants conserve moisture. Th e y survive in their natural habitat with little water and low humidity, an d th e y tolerate the alkalinity present in the desert soil. Take time to learn about the plants available in our area . Visit your local botanical garde n , attend landscape cl a s s e s , get on the Internet, and take ad vantage of the res o u r ces at you r Co o p e r ative Extension office or local li b ra r y. Lo w - w ater plants are avai l a b l e in eve r y size shape and color imagina- bl e . Look around and you ’ re sure to find some favo r i t e s .

Page 8 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County by Sandy Turico, Master Gardener

La yer your plantings. Use tree s , sh r u b s Gr oup plants with so i l , reducing water loss and grou n d c o vers in your plan. Ma n y similar water req u i r e- fr om evap o r ation and limit- smaller shrubs and grou n d c o vers will ments into separat e ing the growth of weeds benefit from the shade provided by zones in your system. that compete for wat e r . la r ger plants and tree s . Using organic mulch has the added No matter what type of irrigation you benefit of improving soil structure. Consider using plants to shade some of us e , remember to check it periodically. your paved area s . Paving materials Look for leaks in the system, bro k e n FE R T I L I Z E R S absorb then release heat, which can sprinkler heads and plugged emitters. Using native plants will greatly red u c e in c r ease the water req u i r ements of or eliminate the need for fertilizers. Th e • Watering sche d u l e ne a r b y plantings. desert produces little organic matter, Knowing when and how long to irri- and these plants have survived in the Do n ’ t plant more than you can care for. gate is not an exact science. Wat e r wild without soil amendments for It ’ s tempting to stroll through a nursery applied deeply and infrequently to the eo n s . A minimum amount of fertilizer and fall in love with eve r y plant you en t i r e root zone will result in stron g e r , can be used to give the landscape a se e , but if you don’t have time to prop - healthier plants capable of withstand- bo o s t , but is not usually necessary. erly maintain your landscape, you will ing our searing summer heat. A conse- waste water and energy . quence of irrigating too frequently is The foliage color of plants is not neces- weak roots that are unable to absorb sarily indicative of the need for fertil- IR R I G AT I O N nu t r i e n t s . iz e r . Plant diseases, insects and weather It is estimated that over 60 percent of conditions can cause abnormal leaf the water used by the ave r age home- Water trees to a depth of 36 inches; co l o r . Use a soil-testing kit when you owner goes for landscape irrigation. shrubs to 24 inches; grou n d c ov e r s , ar e in doubt. Co n s e r ving water does not mean ca c t i , and annuals to 12 inches; and resigning yourself to a yar d full of la wns to 10 inches. Use a soil probe to Too much fertilizer will stimulate exces- roc k s , boulders and a few cacti. A flour- determine how deep the water is pene- sive growth and promote the occur- ishing landscape is attainable with tra t i n g . The type of soil you have deter- rence of disease and pest damage. ca r eful planning. mines how fast water is absorbed and Ov e rg r owth leads to pruning, wh i c h how far it sprea d s . adds unnecessary yar d waste to our • Irrigation equipment la n d f i l l s . Watering your landscape can be M o re plants suffer from ov e r wa t e r i n g accomplished through flood irrigation, than under- wa t e r i n g . Indications of A plant cannot tell the differen c e sp r i n k l e r s , bu b b l e r s , or drip irrigation. water stress are wilted, c u r l e d , o r between organic and synthetic fertiliz- A drip system is a very prac t i c a l d rooping foliage; yellowed older er s . Ho w ev e r , or ganic fertilizers such as method to keep your plantings in tip- l e aves that drop; and dead stems or ma n u re , co m p o s t , fish emulsion, an d top shape. Since water is applied b ra n c h e s . Symptoms of excess irriga- bone meal are slow rel e a s e , lasting ove r exactly where it is needed in a slow tion include brittle leaves that re m a i n a longer period of time. Th e y are less tr i c k l e , evap o r ation and runoff are on the plant; wilted shoots; soft, apt to burn plants and can actually gr eatly red u c e d . smelly tissue; and algae or mush- im p r ove soil conditions. rooms present in the are a . Using an automatic control box to reg - — continued page 10 ulate your irrigation is an efficient way Mulching your landscape plants will to get the job done. Adjust your wat e r - de c r ease the amount of water needed ing schedule seasonally. Du r ation of to sustain them. Th r ee to four inches of the irrigation should not change, on l y rock mulch or organic mulch such as the interval between irrigations. co m p o s t , le av e s , gr ass clippings, bra n c h e s , or pine needles will cool the

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 9 BETTER LANDSCAPE DESIGN

CH E M I C AL USE • Insecticides • Herbicides By definition, pesticides include insec- Follow Integrated Pest Management or Herbicides kill vegetation—both land- ticides as well as herbicides. While it is IPM guidelines. Monitor the affected scape plants and weeds—so utilize sometimes necessary to resort to plant to determine what type of damage these chemicals with caution. chemical use, it is easy to become is being done.Verify that it is an insect • Hand pulling or hoeing weeds is a dependent on them. The inhere n t causing the problem and identify the tedious yet effective means of con- danger in the overuse and inappro p r i- pe s t . Decide if any action is necessary. tro l . Make sure you rem o ve the ate application of pesticides is the poi- If you choose to correct the prob l e m , weeds before they go to seed. soning of our natural re s o u rces and use the least toxic solution possible. • Boiling water and vinegar sprays are possible disruption in the balance that Ac c o r ding to the Master Gardener man- home remedies worth tryi n g . normally exists in nature . Decide how ua l ,“ W e generally associate insects with • Never use soil sterilants in a land- sev e r e a problem is and how much cr op loss or disease tra n s m i s s i o n ,b u t scape setting. In addition to elimi- damage you are willing to tolera t e . only a small number of insect species nating plant growth,they remain in Use chemicals as a last re s o r t . (less than 3 percent) are considered to the soil for long periods of time and • Read the labels… they’ re there for a be pests of humans, a n i m a l s ,c ro p s ,o r may spread through the soil and kill reason! Chemicals are toxic. Safe use fi b e r . Most insects are either outward l y desirable plants. depends on following the direc t i o n s beneficial or harmless.”Th e re f o re , th e Landscaping responsibly should be a and heeding the precautions on the sensible solution is to control pests top priority for the homeowner. Sh o w la b e l . Apply the correct amounts… without harming other insects. your appreciation for our beautiful mo r e is definitely not better. • Non-toxic solutions include desert envi r onment by protecting it! ■ • Minimize insecticide “d r i f t ” by apply- mechanical traps and barriers, wat e r ing the chemicals on a windless day. and soap sprays , and rem o ving and • St o r e chemicals in a cool, dr y, we l l - de s t r oying large insects by hand. ventilated place. It is imperative that Home remedies such as hot pep- these toxic materials are locked away pe r s , garlic and herbal mixtures may “On every stem, on every fr om children and pets. be helpful. • Al w ays keep chemicals in their orig- leaf, …and at the root of • Another option is biological in a l , labeled containers. controls… predators, parasites, everything that grew, was a • Make sure bags or containers are and diseases. not damaged or leaking. professional specialist in the shape of grub, caterpillar, aphis, or other expert, whose business it was to devour that particular part.” —OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES

Page 10 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County SPECIAL FEA T U R E Computer Corner Of Blue Skies and by Candice Sherrill, Master Gardener

Brilliant Sunsets DE P ARTMENT OF STATE Traveling abroad this summer? Check out the U. S. De p a r t m e n t of State’s Bureau of Consular by Sue Hakala, Master Gardener Affairs website for the latest an n o u n c e m e n t s , rec o m m e n d a - hen I first moved here from the tions and war n i n g s . Gives gen- WChicago area , I was amazed at er al advice on important trave l the breathtaking blue of the Ar i z o n a is s u e s … f r om preparing for a crisis sk y. Even now, twenty-six years later, I ab r oad to bringing food, pl a n t s still often sit in my yar d with my chair and animals back into the coun- as well as to the distance sunlight must tilted back, agog at the astonishing tr y. ht t p : / / t r ave l . s t a t e . g ov / color display ove r h e a d . tr avel to reach us at different times of the day and the amount of airborne GARDEN GLOSSARY Per h a p s , like me, you ’ ve won d e r ed why dust in the sky. Ga r dening neophytes and adepts our sky is sooo blue. It ’ s because some- alike should find this handy ref e r - As light zooms at us from the sun, it wh e r e in the earth’s atmosphere there ence useful. It currently lists 4400 bounces off air and water molecules as is a layer containing tiny floating wat e r terms relating to botany, ga rd e n - it is entering our atmosphere and scat- dr oplets called aeros o l s . These aeros o l s in g , ho r t i c u l t u re , and landscape ters in all direc t i o n s . At noon when the come in various sizes, and they scatter arc h i t e c t u re . And it’s updated sun is near to us, sunlight scatters out light coming to us from the sun to pro- reg u l a r l y . ht t p : / / g l o s s a r y.g a rd e n - and diffuses the warm end of the color duce the color differences we see in our we b. c o m / g l o s s a ry / s k i e s .T h ey seem to scatter all the colors spectrum (red , ora n g e , yel l o w ) , so that of the light spectrum about equally. blue dominates. At sunset the light has PALM ENCYCLOPEDIA to travel further, bouncing off a grea t e r Ha ve a particular interest in palm In climates more humid than the number of air molecules and scattering tr ees? This extremely compre- So n o r an Desert, such as in the Midwe s t out the cool end of the spectrum (blue, hensive site is a virtual palm and the East, the sky may look white, gre e n , pu r p l e ) , so that the warm colors en c yclopedia that lists palms ha z y , fo g g y , bright—but not blue. This is do m i n a t e . found throughout the wor l d . because there are more aerosols in the Includes many, ma n y photos, as In the desert airborne dust attaches to air in those parts of the country, and the well as a wealth of horticultural the water droplets—those old aeros o l s light is more scattered . He r e in the Val l e y in f o r m a t i o n . ht t p : / / w w w. p l a n t a - ag a i n . This dust intensifies the dominant of the Sun we have fewer aerosols in the pa l m . c o m / v p e / v p e _ t o c . h t m at m o s p h e re , so more of the color blue is reds bouncing off the aerosols at dusk, allowed through to crea t e , at least to our cr eating our famous sunsets. So iron i - ONLINE CONVERSIONS eyes , our fabulous blue sky. ca l l y , da ys of high pollution and airborne Bookmark this site to quickly look dust contribute greatly to our bright red up conve r s i o n s . Includes length, No w , if we were looking at the sky su n s e t s . During the calm of night dust te m p e ra t u re , sp e e d , vo l u m e , th r ough the eyes of, sa y, a honeybee or settles out of the air, which is why the we i g h t , co m p u t e r , co o k i n g , a hummingbird (both of whom see color of our sunrises aren ’ t as spectacu- en e rg y , fi n a n c i a l , and many more. ul t r aviolet light which our eyes don’t) , lar as our sunsets.The best starga z i n g ht t p : / / w w w. o n l i n e c o nv e r s i o n . c o m the sky would appear to be a differen t takes place after midnight, when skies TURF TI P S co l o r . And if our atmosphere were the contain the least amount of dust. same as Mars, I would be explaining Summer is here and lawns are wh y our daytime sky is such a beautiful The next time you ’ re enjoying a sunset, gr owing lush. The U of A’s Dr. shade of oran g e - r ed instead of blue. you may notice a blue band making its Da ve Kopec discusses turf. way across the sky. Re l a x . It ’ s just the ht t p : / / a g . a r i z o n a . e d u / t u r f / t t . h t m Our state’s spectacular sunsets—with ea r t h ’ s shadow reflecting on our the beautiful afterglow that we are for- at m o s p h e re , a comforting rem i n d e r tunate enough to experience—are also that evening is on its way. ■ related to aerosols in the atmosphere,

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 11 A BOUNTIFUL GARDEN Summer Corn: A Tempting Tradition

BO TAN I C AL NAM E out the Caribbean and Am e r i c a s , fro m DE S C R I P T I O N Zea mays southern Canada to the Andes of Per u . Corn is a member of the Poa c e a e (G ra m i n e a e ) fa m i l y , which includes most COMMON NAM E S The horticultural expertise of indige- gr ains and gras s e s . It is an annual and Ma i z e , co r n , el o t e nous people has given us varieties that one of the most easily identified plants thrive in the ”long day, short grow i n g OR I G I N , HI S TO R Y & FOLKLORE in any home garden or farmer’s field. se a s o n ” of the northern latitudes, as Corn is native to the Am e r i c a s . It is well as the hot and humid trop i c s . Corn has an upright growth habit that descended from teosinte, a wild gras s Other varieties flourish in cold grow i n g can reach 15 feet in height. It is a that continues to thrive in parts of climates with temperat u r es of 40 mo n o c o t , which means it has vas c u l a r Me x i c o , Guatemala and Honduras . de g r ees or at elevations ranging from bundles scattered throughout the gree n Ar chaeologists have found 7,000-yea r - sea level to 12,000 feet. st e m . Plants may also produce second- old evidence of teosinte in dry cave ar y or side shoots that form at grou n d deposits in the Tehuacan Val l e y of cen- Varieties grown by the Hopi and le vel or near base of the main stalk. tr al Mexico. Na vajo have the ability to emerge from a planting depth of up to 18 inches. The dark green leaves exhibit paral l e l Mo r e than 5,000 years ago, pre h i s t o r i c This is truly amazing since most var i - venation and grow to be 2 to 4 inches people were selectively cultivat i n g eties fail to emerge if planted deeper wide and 2 to 3 feet long. ma i z e , along with other plants native to than 3 or 4 inches. the region (i.e., sq u a s h , be a n s , go u rd s , The roots are that of a grass: a networ k chili peppers, avo c a d o s , and amaran t h ) . An 1828 seed catalog listed one var i e t y of shallow, easily damaged roots that of “m o d e r n ” sweet corn. By 1881, ga r - can spread a foot or more outwar d By the time Columbus arrived in the deners could choose from 16 var i e t i e s . fr om the main stalk. To improve stabil- Ne w Wor l d , maize was grown throu g h - Tod a y, th e r e are hundred s . it y , plants may produce sturdy support roo t s . Pollen is produced by specialized male flowers that form in terminal plumes, commonly called tassels. The female f l o w e r s , which are found on the lower leaf axils, consist primarily of two parts: the ear and a group of stra n d s , called silks. One pollinated silk produces one kernel. The fruit (kernels) are large , st a rc h y gr ains on a thick and sturdy axis (cob). Depending on the var i e t y , cobs may ha ve 8 to 24 row s , with kernels appearing in straight lines or random patterns. Corn comes in a rainbow of colors, fr om white to red and blue to black. Corn types are based on the shape of kernel.The most common are Flour, Flint, Flour/Flint, Dent, Sweet and Popcorn.

Page 12 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County by Linda Trujillo, Master Gardener

The Flour types ers sow 1 to 3 tend to be soft seeds in clusters grinding var i e t i e s spaced 12 to 18 Corny Stuff! typically used for inches apart. cornmeal and Others sow 1 to ho m i n y. The Flint 2 seeds eve r y 3 THE STOR Y BEHIND ty p e s , which have to 4 inches and ST OWE L L ’S EVERGREEN ha r d pericarps, thin until they he original strain of this var i - ar e difficult to ac h i e ve the Tety was bred by Nathaniel grind when dry, de s i r ed spacing. Ne wman Stowell, who was born but offer a grea t e r Because corn Ma y 16, 1793 in New Ipswich, resistance to pollen is distrib- Ma s s a c h u s e t t s . After years of insect damage uted by wind, refining the strai n , Nathaniel sold an d , th e re f o re , better results are achieved when plants tw o ears of seed for $4 to a friend ha ve a longer storage life. Th e ar e arranged in blocks or spirals with at who agreed to use it only for his Flour/Flint types have kernels that are least 4 plants in all direc t i o n s . pr i v ate use. His “ f r i e n d ”t h e n ha r d on the outside and soft on the turned around and sold the seed in s i d e . Corn is a heavy feeder. Once plants for $20,000 and it was introd u c e d reach 6 inches tall, th e y benefit from Dent types have a dent on the crown of to the seed trade in 1848. Af t e r regular side dressing with nitrogen rich each kernel and are usually grown for 150 yea r s , his variety is still the fe r t i l i z e r . At a minimum plants should animal feed. Sweet types are grown for leading white variety for home be fertilized 3 times: when knee high, fr esh eating since they are better at ga r dens and market grow e r s . when waist high, and when tassels and pr oducing and holding sugar in the —f r om the Seed Savers Exchange silks appear. ke r n e l s . 2003 Seed Catalog, p. 16 Most of the literat u r e available today Popcorn is a type of flint with colorful, focuses on growing sweet corn by con- small kernels that burst open when Teosinte literally means ventional methods. Ho w ev e r , I pref e r exposed to heat. Th e r e are two major “G o d ’ s corn.” corn circl e s , a more traditional method kinds: pearl (smooth with rou n d e d closely associated with the Hopi and cro w n s ) , and rice (pointed crow n s ) . Got Texas Root Rot? Na vajo people. Try corn, it ’ s a monocot! HO W TO GROW A corn circle is a round basin with a Corn req u i r es full sun, adequate wat e r raised ridge around it. The corn circl e s and benefits from rich, we l l - d ra i n e d All corn types are edible in their I use are typically 2 to 3 feet in diame- soil with a pH of 5.8 to 6.5. In the low milk stage. Th a t ’ s when you pres s te r , 4 to 5 inches deep and spaced 4 to desert southwest, corn can be planted your thumbnail into a kernel 5 feet apart. in early spring (February/ M a r ch) and cr own and out squirts a milky, late summer (Jul y / A u g u s t ) . —continued page 14 sweet liquid. Those who prefer the conve n t i o n a l method for growing corn should sow Corn planted in July or A u g u s t seeds 1 to 2 inches deep in rows spaced will ripen during cool nights, 3 to 4 feet apart. Seed spacing depends and this is said to increase its on the chosen variety and the pref e r re d s w e e t n e s s . pr actice of the garde n e r . Some garde n -

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 13 A BOUNTIFUL GARDEN

Corn circles allow water to be captured or applied and directed downwar d to wa r d the roo t s . In addition, wh e n seeds are sown in a spiral , the outer ring of plants creates a protective wal l ar ound plants in the center of the circl e . Re g a r dless of wind direc t i o n , pollen is carried into the center of the ci r cle where it is more likely to land on exposed silks. I love to grow native, desert-adapted or heirloom var i e t i e s . My current favo r i t e is “S t o w e l l ’s , ”which does well when planted in corn circl e s . I sow 12 to 15 seeds in a spiral pattern 6 to 8 inches apart and 2 to 3 inches deep. I use the traditional companion planting technique of “T h r ee Sisters.” ni t r ogen available to the corn and vo re d , white-kenneled ears mature in Between corn circl e s , I plant beans or sq u a s h , which reduces the need for side about 100 days . dre s s i n g . The squash plants weave their bl a c k - e yed peas and squash. The corn I choose Stowell’s for fall planting way around the stalks and their large pr ovides afternoon shade, as well as because it “ h o l d s ”f resh-eating ears le a ves shade the soil, which red u c e s support for the beans or peas. Th e longer than other var i e t i e s . It is also mo i s t u r e loss due to evap o ra t i o n . beans or peas increase the amount of unique in that should the weather turn Whether you prefer grow i n g unseasonably cold, the plant can be corn by a conventional or tra- pulled up with immature ears attached ditional method, when tem- and hung upside down in a cool place, pe ra t u r es soar above 90 such as a garage or storero o m , wh e r e de g re e s , it may be necessary the ears will continue to ripen until to hand pollinate in the early th e y can be harve s t e d . morning hours to ensure a Most local plant nurseries or mail orde r good harve s t . seed houses offer a wide variety of corn The method I use is to take a se e d . My favorites are Native Seed la r ge stainless steel bowl and Se a rc h , Seeds of Change and Botanical hold it next to the main stalk In t e re s t . Limited selections by Seeds of just below the tassel. Th e n Change and Botanical Interest can be tap the tassel so pollen falls found locally at Whole Foo d s . into the bowl. Co l l e c t e d PESTS & DISEASES pollen is then distributed Insect pests include the corn earwor m , onto exposed silks. Southwestern corn borer , corn seed VARIETIES & SEED ma g g o t , flea beetle, Japanese beetle, SO U R C E S and corn sap beetle. Other pests St o w e l l ’ s is an heirloom var i - include birds and rac c o o n s . ety originally introduced in Diseases include Stewar t ’ s wilt, st u n t 18 4 8 . The plant grows 8 to 10 and smut. Smut is said to taste similar feet tall and produces two or to mushrooms and is considered a deli- mo r e 7- to 9-inch-long ears ca c y in many parts of the wo r l d ,i n c l u d- per plant. These sweet-fla- ing Mexico.

Page 14 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County A BOUNTIFUL GARDEN Grilled Corn in the Husks WHEN TO HARVEST NU T R I T I O N AL VAL U E & HOW TO STOR E Corn is a source of vitamins A, B1 and ne of the home garde n e r ’ s Look at the silks, which darken and dry C, as well as phosphorus. Corn is also Ogr eatest taste treats is that of as the ears mature. Squeeze and feel high in carbohyd r ates and contains fr eshly harvested corn that is the ear through the husk to check for pr otein and amino acids. In fact, wh e n immediately prep a r ed and eaten! kernel plumpness. If an ear looks and corn is eaten with beans and squash, Almost eve r yone has a favo r i t e feels ripe, then gently pull back the the combination of amino acids crea t e s way to prep a r e this delightful husk to expose a small portion of the a protein equivalent to that of meat. ve g e t a b l e . ea r . Pr ess your thumbnail into a kernel Re f e re n c e s • 4 ears corn, unhusked cr own to see if squirts out a milky, A s h wo r t h ,S u z a n n e . Seed to Seed. • 1-2 sprigs of fresh herb (such sweet liquid. If the fluid is clear the ear ISBN 0-9613977-7-2 (pp. 18 8 - 1 9 6 ) . as basil, ci l a n t ro , ore g a n o , is not yet ripe, so replace the husk and Ch a dw i c k , Janet Bachand. The Busy Per s o n ’ s thy m e , and chives) or 1-2 check again the following day. If the Guide to Preserving Food: Easy Step-by-Step teaspoons of dried herbs fluid is thick, the ear is still edible but Instructions for Fr e e z i n g ,D r y i n g ,a n d • 2 garlic clove Ca n n i n g . ISBN 0-88266-900-1. past its prime, so harvest and use as • 2-4 tablespoons softened, soon as possible. C h e s m a n ,A n d re a . The Vegetarian Grill. unsalted butter ISBN 1-55832-127-6. The method I use to harvest an ear Fos t e r , Nelson and Linda S. Co rd e l l . Ch i l i e s Peel back, but do not rem ov e , th e req u i r es both hands. I use one to hold to Chocolate: Food the Americas Gave the husks from the corn. Re m o ve the the main stalk above the ear to be har- Wor l d . ISBN 0-8165-1324-4. silks and place ears in cool wat e r ve s t e d . With the other hand I grab and Mi k e l , Ter r y H. and Kai Umeda. Uo f A to soak for about 15 minutes. twist the ear, then pull down and away Co o p e r ative Extension Online Publication, fr om the stalk. “Growing Sweet Corn in Arizona.” Finely mince the herbs and gar- ww w. a g . a r i z o n a . e d u / p u b s / c ro p s / a z 1 1 4 1 . p d f . lic. Add it to the butter and mix For short-term storag e , le a ve ears in Ny h u i s , Jan e . Desert Harvest: A Guide to until you have a relatively the husks and ref r i g e ra t e . For longer Vegetable Gardening in Arid Lands. smooth paste. st o ra g e , whole ears can be froz e n ISBN 0-918080-84-3. unhusked and unblanched. Si m p l y Dr ain the ears. Coat each ear place them in the freezer for about 48 with about 1 tablespoon of the ho u r s , then put them in freezer bags butter mixture. Bring the husks and return to the free z e r .Jan e t back over the ears. Banchand Chadwi c k , in her book Th e “Though I do not believe Cook on the grill over a medium Busy Per s o n ’ s Guide to Pres e r ving Foo d that a plant will spring up high fire, turning frequently for details other ways to pres e r ve quickly about 10-20 minutes. The husks and easily your bountiful corn harve s t . where no seed has been, I will be dry and the kernels will SEED SAVI N G have great faith in a seed. begin to brow n . Pull back the husks and serve hot off the grill. Ac c o r ding to Susan As h wo r t h , sw e e t Convince me that you have corn varieties maintain 50 percent ger- Based on a recipe in mination for 3 yea r s . Fl i n t , dent and a seed there, and I am pre- The Vegetarian Grill popcorns retain high germination rat e s by An d r ea Chesman. for 5 to 10 yea r s . If you plan to save pared to expect wonders.” se e d , please read the section on corn in —HENRY DAVID THOREAU Susan As h wo r t h ’ s book Seed to Seed. It is a complex proc e s s , and As h wo r t h pr ovides clear instructions and photo- gr aphs that detail various methods, including hand pollination and “b a g - gi n g ” of ears and tassels.

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 15 C R E A TURE COMFORTS Going to Bat for Bats

by Marion Adams, United States, with some species in with some species flying only under Master Gardener Intern danger of extinction. Bats have many co ver of night. Co n t ra r y to popular na t u r al enemies, but the most signifi- be l i e f , bats are not blind; most can see Did you know: cant cause of their decline is human ve r y well (only in black and white). • There are nearly 1000 species ac t i v i t y . Destruction of the bat’s natural Ma n y also use a unique radar system of bats worldwide. habitat and contamination of their food called echolocation, which helps them • The United States has 44 species; and water sources are two factors that to navigate in complete darkness. Th e ap p r oximately 18 species in the ha ve contributed greatly to their continuous high-pitched sounds bats desert southwest. de c r easing numbers. pr oduce are far above the human ran g e • Bats are unique among mammals of hearing, but they allow the bat to Bats are generally very shy crea t u re s , because they can fly. receive echo patterns that help them and avoid humans whenever possible. locate food and warn them of obsta- Although bats are more likely than Some live singly, while others live in cl e s . most small mammals to live out their co l o n i e s . Some hibernate in the winter; full life potential, th e r e is a serious others migrate great distances. So m e Th e r e is a common misconception that decline in bat populations in the fly in daylight; others at dawn or dusk, bats are dirty. In rea l i t y , bats are very clean mammals and may spend as much as 30 minutes “b a t h i n g ”b e f o r e settling in to sleep. Un wa r r anted fears have given bats a bad reputation and have led to unjusti- fied attempts at erad i c a t i o n . Bats are ve r y docile. Even rabid bats are rare l y ag g r essive; they are responsible for only about one death per year in the United States. Comparing that to “m a n s ’ best friend,”a greater number of human beings are attacked and killed by dogs in one year than succumb to bat rabies in an entire decade or longer. Left alone, bats pose little threat to hu m a n s . The benefits bats provide are numer- ou s . Some bats are primarily fruit and nectar eaters. This makes them grea t pollinators and seed dispersers. Le s s than 3 percent of all bats are carnivores , dining on small vertebrates as well as in s e c t s . Nearly all bats living in the United States feed on bugs. Th e y are the primary predator of night-flying in s e c t s . A single little brown bat can eat 1200 mosquito-sized insects in an hour! If that’s not amazing enough, a

Page 16 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County Ask a Garde n e r by Judy Curtis, Master Gardener UNDERAPPRECIATED DESERT TREES QU E S T I O N : co l o n y of bats living under the I have a small yard . What are some Co n g r ess Avenue Bridge in downtown suggestions for trees that won ’ t get Au s t i n , Texas consumes approx i m a t e l y too large for the space? 40,000 pounds of insects nightly!! How wise to consider the eve n t u a l Another benefit, bat guano, is mined by size of the trees you are going to the ton as one of the wor l d ’ s most pl a n t . Thinking ahead will avo i d valuable fertilizers. the expense of rem o ving ove r - Th e r e is an urgent need for bat conser- gr own plants and repairing dam- vat i o n . Displaced bats need new age from invasive roots later on. ho m e s . You can help attract bats to you r He r e are three trees that deserve yar d by providing a suitable place for mo r e attention in our landscapes. them to roost and raise their young in Th e y are all moderately fast grow - sa f e t y . The Bat Conservat i o n ers to between 15 and 20 feet. International group web site (www.b a t - Local nurseries can order them if they are not in stock. co n . o r g) has good information on Prosopis pubescens pr operly designed bat houses for pur- A Sonoran native, the screwbean mesquite sports unique spiraled pods that ch a s e , as well as plans for building you r ar e edible like those of its close rel a t i v e s . Pods can also be soaked and used in o w n .T h ey also provide information for outdoor grilling for flavo r . This tree has yellow flowers that bloom in late the most successful placement of you r sp r i n g . The feathery foliage is deciduous and it is both frost hardy and heat bat house. Ma n y catalogs offer artificial to l e ra n t . It provides filtered shade in summer, allows sunlight to come in dur- roo s t s , but generally these are of poor ing winter, and is considered a relatively clean tree because of its small leave s . design with little information on prop e r The wood has been highly prized in the past, and was used to make gun- pl a c e m e n t . stocks during World War II. Bats are fascinating crea t u r es to wat c h , Eysenhardtia orthocarpa as well as wonderful natural pest con- The common name, ki d n ey wo o d , refers to its historic uses for medicinal pur- tro l l e r s . Do n ’ t be discouraged if they po s e s . It has frag r ant white flowers that smell of vanilla and are attractive to do n ’ t take up residence immediately in bu t t e r f l i e s . Also a Sonoran native, it will take full sun, reflected heat, po o r your bat house. It may take seve ra l so i l s , and cold weather. Depending on the winter temperat u re s , it is semi- months or even a season or two before eve rg r een to deciduous. th e y move in. Pi s t a c hia lentiscus Arizona bat species known to use bat This Asian import, known as the mastic tree , is eve rg r een and provides more houses are: Pallid bat, Big brown bat, shade than the other two. It has a long history; leaf fossils from it have been Cave myotis,Yuma myotis, Mexican dated back six million yea r s . Its resin is used for chewing gum and perfumes, ■ free-tailed bat. the small red fruits that turn black are ingredients in sweets in As i a , and the Re f e re n c e s : tannin is used to tan leather. It also withstands heat, dro u g h t , poor soils, an d ww w. a n g e l f i r e.com/(bat houses) is hardy to about 20 degree s . ww w. d e s e r t u s a . c o m ww w. n ew s r evi e w.c o m For more small tree suggestions go to tucsonbotanical.org. Click on garde n ww w. a z w i l d b i rd s . c o m / b a t s info and links, and then click on “Think Small.” This is an excellent site about ww w. b a t c o n . o r g small desert-adapted trees with photos and tables of the characteristics of var - ious species. ■

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 17 MEET THE NA T I V E S The Prickly Pear: Handle with Care!

BO TAN I C AL NAM E CL A S S I F I C ATION & RANGE Opuntia spp. The genus Opuntia is the largest and most widespread of the family COMMON NAM E S Ca c t a c e a e , subfamily Opuntiodeae. It Prickly pear cactus, be av e r t a i l , Sa n t a contains 181 species plus 10 natural l y Ri t a , Indian fig, bu n n y ears, co w ’ s occurring hyb r i d s , and is found from to n g u e , et c . Canada to southern South Am e r i c a . It A beautiful desert garden can be is divided into the Opuntias (prickly ac h i e ved with a good mixture of pears) and Cyclindropuntias (chollas). spines become visible. Fou r t h , wh i l e desert-adapted tree s , sh r u b s , su c c u - most other cacti have shiny black Opuntias and Cyclindropuntias are dis- le n t s , and wildflowers. One great natu- se e d s , Opuntia seeds have a pale cov- tinguished from other cacti by four ral choice for an Arizona garden is the ering called an aril. ch a r acteristics: First, their stems are prickly pear. Fr om treelike and shrubby segmented into distinct joints or pads HI S TO R Y, FO L K L O R E , & USES to low-growing mound, th e r e is a called cladodes. Stems have determi- Opuntias have been an important food prickly pear to fit the needs of almost nate grow t h , that is, the onset of the so u r ce for many of the native peoples an y landscape. Un f o r t u n a t e l y , th e y dr y season permanently stops the elon- of the Am e r i c a s . Native Americans in do n ’ t often find a place in the garde n gation of joints or cladodes. Se c o n d , Mexico and the Caribbean were culti- due to the dreaded glochid, th o s e although regular spines may be pres e n t vating Opuntia ficus-indica (Indian Fig na s t y , nearly invisible bristles that or absent, th e y all bear glochids. (S o m e Cactus) prior to their conquest by become detached at the slightest touch. mo r e than others!) Th i rd , ru d i m e n t a r y Spain in the sixteenth century. Th ey ’ re also prone to outgrow their le a ves are present as new pads or joints welcome over time, but with prop e r The Spanish took the Indian Fig Cactus ar e formed. Th e y dry and fall off as the pruning they can be kept in bounds. back and introduced it to their country, and it spread from there to North Af r i c a , It a l y , Gr eece and other Me d i t e r r anean countries. It has since become naturalized in these area s . Indian fig has been used for medicinal purposes as a treatment for diabetes, whopping cough, rheumatism and no s e b l e e d s . The fruits (called tuna in Spanish) of some species are very tasty. With the glochids and spines rem ov e d , th e y can be eaten fres h , or the juice can be expressed to make jellies, dr i n k s , and syrup. The Aztecs had large plantations of Opuntia cochenillifera infested with cochineal scale, Dactylopius coccus, to support their dye industry. The dye, made from the dried crushed bodies of the cochineal insect, was used to color the robes of the Aztec emperor s . Li k e

Page 18 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County by Christine Bahto, Master Gardener Intern

O. fi c u s - i n d i c a , the Spanish brought the purple fruit, which persist dye back to Europ e . At the time, it was for months. worth more than gold! Interes t i n g l y , th e Indian Fig Prickly Pear (O . dye was used to color the “re d c o a t s ”o f fi c u s - i n d i c a ) , with its treelike grow t h sa w and tongs to hold the pad steady, the British soldiers who fought in the and height of 6 to 18 feet, makes for an or loppers. For get the gloves! You’ll only American Revo l u t i o n . excellent border or background plant. end up throwing them away. Opuntias have also played a part in the Flowers are yellow or oran g e - re d , an d (Remember prickly pears have construction of Spanish missions in the fruits are edible. With its origins in gl o c h i d s ) . Step back and really look at Ca l i f o r n i a . The mucilage from the stem tr opical Am e r i c a , this prickly pear the plant to determine which pieces joints was used to strengthen adobe needs a little more water in the sum- you want to rem ov e . Make sure you see mo r t a r . It was most recently used in the mer than the others listed. all the pads that are connected to the res t o r ation of the San Xavier del Bac ones you want to rem ov e . (Y ou can’t PR O P AGA TION & CAR E Mission in Tuc s o n . reattach them)! For a natural look fol- Prickly Pears are a great plant to con- low the line of pads to be rem o ved and People aren ’ t the only crea t u r es to find sider if you have a spot in your garde n make the cut where the rem a i n i n g Opuntias useful. Jave l i n a , rab b i t s , an d that is too hot to grow anything else. pads will hide it. It ’ s an easy pa c k r ats eat prickly pear pads. Pac k ra t s Pu r chase smaller plants, which are def- pr ocess…just watch your fingers, and some birds build nests in low grow - initely easier to handle. Once estab- el b o w s , kn e e s , et c ! ing prickly pears, safe from coyot e s . l i s h e d ,t h ey will grow pretty quickly (for a cactus, any w ay) . Remember to con- Should you notice white cottony masses OPUNTIAS TO CONSIDER sider the mature size of the plants and showing up on the surface of you r Be a vertail Prickly Pear (Opuntia basi- pick a site away from pedestrians and O p u n t i a s ,t h ey are the aforem e n t i o n e d la r i s ) is a beautiful low-growing plant. pl a y area s . Use beaker tongs, a piece of cochineal scale, th e r e to feed on the The wedge-shaped pads are blue-gray folded news p a p e r , or old (no longer in pl a n t ’ s juices. A good blast of water from and grow from the base of older pads. use) garden hose to handle the plants. a garden hose should dislodge them. It spreads about 2 to 3 feet with a Minimal water is needed. Once eve r y 2 Since they need the plant to feed on, height of about 20 inches. Ma g e n t a to 3 weeks in the summer is sufficient once they are dislodged they soon die. flowers appear around late February or for new plants. When established they early March . So there you have it… the perfect plant can generally survive on rainfall alone. (if you forget about the glochids)! Th e y Santa Rita or Purple Prickly Pear (O . As with any herbaceous plant, ho w - can take the heat, su n , co l d , and lack of violacea v. santa rita) has blue-gray pads eve r , shriveling or wilting means they rai n , and they don’t have prob l e m s with a purplish coloration that intensi- need to be wat e re d . with pests. Better yet , if you plant them fies in times of drought or cold Pr opagation couldn’t be easier! Using ar ound the perimeter of your yar d or we a t h e r . It grows about 4 to 5 feet tall beaker tongs or a piece of folded news - under a vulnerable window, you can and as wide, with more of an upright pa p e r , just cut off a pad. (Y ou can swap keep pests of the human type out! ■ (r ather than spreading) grow t h . Yel l o w pads with a friend)! Let the wound dry flowers bloom from April through May. for about a week, then plant the pad in Re f e re n c e s : En g e l m a n n ’ s Prickly Pear (O . en g e l m a n - a shallow depression cut side down. A n d e r s o n ,E dwar d F., The Cactus Family ni i ) makes an outstanding specimen Water eve r y 2 weeks to get the roo t s Ar i z o n a - S o n o r an Desert Museum, pl a n t . It grows to form a sprea d i n g st a r t e d . A Natural History of the Sonoran Desert mound about 4 to 5 feet tall and 10 feet Pruning your prickly pears is also a Qu i r k , Pat r i c k , Cactus Horticulturist, wi d e . Yellow flowers bloom between simple matter. First and forem o s t , be Desert Botanical Garde n April and Jun e , but the real show starts fearless but focused! Use either a clean with the formation of the dark red to

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 19 NEOPHYTE NOOK Birds in the Ga r d e n

by Mike Mekelburg, Master Gardener bi r ds are lost eve r y yea r ti o n s , so bird garde n i n g in the United States to is definitely beneficial. rofessional birder Tom Savage gave ca t s . A further 100 mil- But don’t just do it, do it Pan exceptional talk on bird garde n - lion are lost each yea r ri g h t . ing at the last Ajo Garden Club meet- to collisions with pic- The most basic ingred i - in g . It was immediately clear that tu r e windows. Erg o , if ents of successful bird Sa vage knows his Arizona low-desert you have cats or picture ga r dening are water and cove r . A roc k bi r ds; what they eat, wh e r e they nest, windows in your house, you may be or perch of some kind can be placed in how to attract them. doing more harm than good by bird the water supply so small and you n g ga rd e n i n g . What was of even greater interest were bi r ds can partake. Co ver can include some of the hard-hitting points Savag e Sa d l y , all the birds killed by cats and plants that provide food, sh a d e , an d made that brought an occasional gasp windows is a drop in the bucket com- ne s t i n g . Prickly pear cactus and aloe fr om the audience. pa r ed to those lost to destroyed habitat; ve r a are good choices. namely development of the land. For instance not eve r yone should try to Seed feeding is a mistake according to at t r act birds to their yard , and here’ s Sa vage noted that there has been a Sa vag e . De s i r able birds can forage for the reason: An estimated 12 million tr emendous decrease in bird popula- th e m s e l v e s . Seed feeding helps the house sparrow , the most common bird in Ar i z o n a , who tends to take over an ar ea and drive off more desirable birds . Remember that hummingbirds should only be given a sugar and water solution mixed at the ratio of 1 part sugar to 4 parts wat e r . Ho n e y, corn syrup, and food colorings are not rec o m - me n d e d . Th e r e may be nothing we can do about the rapid development of our low desert habitat, but we can take steps to bring that habitat back into our yard s . Landscaping with native plants is gen- er ally a win-win situation. ■

“The man who has planted a garden feels that he has done something for the good of the world.” —VITA SACKVILLE-WEST

Page 20 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County E A R T H - F R I E N D L Y GARDENING Garden- Watering & Plant Care Smart TIPS EASY ID TAGS for your vegetable garden can be Tips for Summer’s Sizzle made from the plastic tags that come with your tran s p l a n t s . I take a hole punch and punch a hole in the end of the tags and by Donna DiFrancesco Master twist-tie them to my tomato Gardener,Water Conservation ca g e s , tr ellises or wherever I need Specialist City of Mesa to identify a specific var i e t y . (f r om Bonnie Newh o f f , on ’ t let our current spring-like Master Garde n e r ) Dweather fool you . Summer is just ar ound the corner and the long, ho t , KNOW WHEN TO WATER dr y conditions ahead can tax the POTTED PLANTS en d u r ance of many plants. For plant using those complimentary raw success this summer season, fo l l o w wood chopsticks that many ori- these tips: ental restaurants make available. ADJUST WATERING SCHEDULES One set of chopsticks takes care Water needs will increase as the tem- of two plants; just snap them pe ra t u r e rises. Landscape wat e r i n g apart and gently twist them down guidelines are available from you city into the soil. A quick glance will water conservation office. Th e y are FERTILIZE NON-NATIVE PLANTS tell you it’s time to get out the printed onto a handy, plastic card that Follow product label rec o m m e n d a t i o n s watering can. can be placed right inside your irriga- to fertilize established non-native TIRED OF LOOKING AT tion controller box. Call your wat e r pl a n t s . Native plants usually do not THOSE WH I T E , 60S-ERA co n s e r vation office for a free copy. req u i r e fertilizers and generally grow SC ALLOPED BORDERS? better without them. CHECK IRRIGATION SYST E M S Pull them out a few at a time, Replace clogged drip emitters and PRUNE FROST-DA M A GED PLANTS scrub them off, and paint them in repair leaks. In c r ease emitter numbers If plants have been damaged by the earth tones (or even wilder colors and adjust emitter placement on tree s . co l d , wait until new growth emerge s if you prefer) once they’ re dry. For sprinklers, place cups or cans out in be f o r e you prune. Prune other plants Now put them back where you your lawn , turn your system on, an d only when necessary. Low tree limbs got them—only upside-down! check for uneven cove r age to deter- or branches keep plants shaded and Voila…an updated look that not mine problem area s . cooler in summer. only costs very little, but also keeps excess material out of the MULCH PLANT ROOTS REPLANT LOST PLANTS la n d f i l l ! Replenish organic mulches around If plants have died or are not perform- your plants each year to improve soil, ing well, plant new ones before the MAKE YOUR BED reduce moisture loss, and keep roots summer heat sets in. Be sure to select AND BASK IN IT! cool during the summer months. Keep native or well-adapted plants to ensure A clever friend recently put a mulch away from plant trunk or main fu t u r e success. ■ rusty old bed frame to good use stem and cover the mulch with granite in her gard e n . She partially if you prefer. buried it and turned what wo u l d RE M O VE WE E D S h ave been the mattress area into Winter weeds can compete with land- a mounded “ b e d ”for her annu- scape plants for wat e r . Re m o ve the a l s . Each season, she creates the weeds by hand or check with your local look of a patchwork quilt by nu r s e r y for safe weed sprays . planting the bed with 2 colors of annual plants.

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 21 T H E T R A VELING GARDENER Summers Past Fa r m s

ummer has come and the charms of April while the superb morn- SSan Diego are nudging more per- ing glories were just featured sistently—cooler climes, surf and in Sunset Magazine. Per h a p s sh o re l i n e , cloud cove r , and sweatshirts this is true, but I knew no dis- in the eve n i n g s . Or perhaps it’s the appointment during a mid- zo o , Sh a m u , or Balboa Park that come July excursion. At the time, th e to mind. ma n y outdoor offerings the many soap-making classes offered . included an arom a t i c , oc t a g o n a l - d e s i g n Although rural attractions are seldom herb plot, a Shakespeare Garde n , an A fairly large event area permits special associated with this coastal city, just a ar ea for children ’ s plantings, a Garde n fe s t i v als year rou n d . Su m m e r ’ s pro- fe w miles to the east there is an incred - of Delights which led to the Wed d i n g gr ams begin with the Fai r y Festival on ible opportunity to relax and indulge Ar b o r , a cutting garde n , gr een houses June 7. Bring your gauze, wings and the senses. For in the San Diego and the obligatory potager (French for other regalia to participate in the Fai r y foothills is hidden a most colorful and a kitchen gard e n ) .T h e n , be yon d , ar e Fashion Para d e . Prizes will be award e d charming countryside ret re a t , Su m m e r s the fields of everlasting flowers and to the best wee garde n , that patch con- Past Far m s . he r b s . si d e r ed most alluring to the farm’s pix- This is written from a distance of some ie s . You can pretend you are in the A large post-and-timber barn is home four summers past, when I first discov- fields of Provence on June 21, when the to thousands of dried herbs and er ed this enchantingly rustic collection ma n y var i e t i e s , sm e l l s , colors and uses blooms suspended from the raf t e r s , as of country stores and barn, theme gar- of lavender are featured . Visitors are well as books, swa g s , unique floral de n s , fields of herbs and flowers, wat e r en c o u r aged to dress in shades of purple offerings and arom a t h e ra p y prod u c t s . fe a t u re s , and pets-at-large . While my th e n . Ge r anium Day is celebrated Jul y Cr afting classes are held in the bright recollections may be a bit hazy I am 12 , when the nursery will be filled with loft area , fro m quite clear on an array of var i e t i e s , and staff will be on which you can my exceedingly hand to discuss uses and cultivation of gaze onto the reluctant depar- these excellent plants. August 16 brings colorful fields tu r e following a the Summer Salsa Competition.You while hand full morning do n ’ t have to share your rec i p e , but you selecting you r th e re — n o t must be reg i s t e r ed a week in advan c e materials from because it to compete. the beams. Th e meant ret u r n - nu r s e r y spe- Do n ’ t forget a picnic blanket. Go u r m e t ing to Phoenix, cializes in box-style lunches are generally avai l - but because I herbs and fra- able on these festival days . Li g h t was simply gr ant plants ref r eshments are offered at the ca p t i va t e d ! with a growing collection of peren n i a l s , Es p r esso/Snack Bar. A hat and wat e r Quite happily will I soon make a ret u r n all available for purch a s e . ar e rec o m m e n d e d , as it’s often war m e r visit to take in such recent additions as in the highlands than in San Diego the lavender field with its Prove n c e - Equally impressive is Ye Old Soap pro p e r . style facade of fountains, co u r t ya r d and Shoppe and Fac t o r y, pu rv e yors of very a Grand Allé of arches in the style of fine vegetable-based soaps as well as If your plans don’t permit a visit to the Mo n e t . bath and skin care pro d u c t s .T h e fa r m , you can check out the products of adv e n t u r ous can purchase soap-mak- the Ye Old Soap Shoppe at its sister It was suggested that a late spring visit ing kits, cu t t e r s , molds and other sup- outlet of the same name in Old Tow n shows the farm at its frag r ant and col- pl i e s . You can always return for one of San Diego, at the corner of Harney orful best. Sweet Pea Day was in late

Page 22 June/July 2003 MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County by Linda A. Guy, Master Gardener mu c i l a g e (Prickly Pear p.18)—a gelat- Word Wise inous plant substance similar to plant Definitions for terms used in this gums; often used as an adhesive. is s u e … na t u r a l i z e d (Prickly Pear p.1 8 ) — 1-2-3 Rule (Things to Expect p.5 ) — in t r oduced from elsewh e re , bu t a useful rule of thumb for wat e r i n g becoming established in a particular plants: water small plants such as ge o g r aphical area . gro u n d c o vers and annuals to a depth of 1 foot; shrubs to a depth of 2 feet, parallel ven a t i o n (Summer Corn and trees to a depth of 3 feet. p.12)—with primary veins running pa r allel to the leaf axis or to each St r eet and San Diego Ave n u e . am a r a n t h (Summer Corn p.1 2 ) — other; as opposed to netted venation various annuals of the genus Th e r e is no charge to visit Summers wh e r e veins run in different direc - Am a ra n t h u s , ha ving clusters of tiny Past Far m s , open Wed n e s d a ys throu g h tions and resemble netting. Su n d ay s . Fr om San Diego, tr avel east gr een or red flowers. Includes weeds, on I-8, exit Harbison Canyon / D u n b a r or n a m e n t a l s , and food plants. Al s o pe r i c a r p (Summer Corn p.1 2 ) — t h e Lane ram p . This is about 30 minutes called pigweed. wall or outer layer of the fruit; the ripened wall of a plant ovar y. fr om downtown. For more information ca r n i vor e (Going to Bat p.1 6 ) — call 619.390.9371, or take a virtual tour a flesh-eating animal or plant. re s i n (U n d e ra p p r eciated Tree s of the grounds at http://www.s u m - p.17)—a sticky organic substance de c i d u o u s (U n d e ra p p r eciated Tree s me r s p a s t f a r m s . c o m (usually tran s p a r ent or tran s l u c e n t p.17)—falling off, as leaves from a and flammable) formed in plant It ’ s a perfect way to eke out just one tr ee; not eve rg r een; not persistent. mo r e delightful day of vacation before se c r etions and insoluble in wat e r . ever g r e e n (U n d e ra p p r eciated Tree s halfheartedly returning to Val l ey ’ s heat. sc a l e (Prickly Pear p.18)—an infesta- p.1 7 ) — h a ving green leaves throu g h tion by a prolific group of homopter- the winter; not deciduous. ous insects with winged males and gu a n o (Going to Bat p.1 6 ) — w i n g l e s s ,s c a l e - c ov e red females that dung used as fertilizer attach themselves to a host plant. Th e young suck the juices out of the plant. he r b a c e o u s (Prickly Pear p.1 8 ) — ha ving the characteristics of an herb side dressing (Summer Corn (no above - g r ound woo d y stems); p.12)—to place nutrients on or in the not woo d y soil near the roots of a crop , no t di r ectly on it. indigenous (Summer Corn p.12)— having originated in and being pro- specimen plant (Prickly Pear p.1 8 ) — duced, growing, living, or occurring a term used by people in the nursery Summers Past Far m s naturally in a particular region or in d u s t r y to mean a tree or shrub 15602 Old Highway 80 environment. la r ge enough to significantly impact a landscape; a large , conspicuous plant. Flinn Springs, CA 92021 leaf axil (Summer Corn p.1 2 ) — t h e 61 9 . 3 9 0 . 1 5 2 3 angle formed between the axis of a ta n n i n (U n d e ra p p r eciated Trees p.1 7 ) ht t p : / / w w w. s u m m e r s p a s t f a r m s . c o m / i n d stem and the leaf projecting from it. An y of various soluble, as t r i n g e n t ex . h t m l plant substances used in tanning, ma m m a l s (Going to Bat p.1 6 ) — dyei n g , in k s , and medicines. Ye Old Soap Shoppe warm-blooded higher vertebrat e s ht t p : / / w w w. s o a p m a k i n g . c o m / that nourish their young with milk ver t e b r a t e s (Going to Bat p.1 6 ) — se c r eted by mammary glands, an d or ganisms having a spinal column. usually have skin cove r ed at least partially with hair. mo n o c o t (Summer Corn p.1 2 ) — a plant with a single seed leaf or cotyledon (the primary or first grow t h that emerges from a seed); as opposed to a dicot, which has 2 seed leave s .

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maricopa County MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL June/July 2003 Page 23 H O T O F F T H E P R E S S ! Ea r t h - F ri e n d l y Desert Garde n i n g An Arizona Master Gardener Press Publication

AT LAST! Subscribe Today! It is possible to have an “E a r t h - F r i e n d l y ” yar d that Six 24-page issues a year packed with: works in harmony with • Secrets for successful gardening in na t u re . “E a r t h - Fr i e n d l y the low desert Ga r d e n i n g ” pr ovides useful • Upcoming gardening classes and st r ategies in these horticultural events 6 important area s : • Important gardening tips timed to each season • Energy Conservation • Fruit and vegetable articles with •Water Conservation tasty new recipes to try • Green Waste Reduction • Book, Internet site, and publication • Water Quality Pres e r vat i o n reviews of interest to plant lovers •Wildlife Habitat • Current environmental, pest, • Edible Landscaping disease, and chemical bulletins By authors Cathy Cromell, • Plant selections for our desert Jo Miller and Lucy climate Bradley. • Exciting illustrations and Illustrations by photographs Janice Austin. For information on subscription rat e s , Price: $14.95, plus $4.00 shipping. Arizona residents add 5.6% sales tax ($0.83). please contact Carol Noyes at 602-470- Checks should be made out to the University of Arizona and mailed to: 8086 ext. 30 8 , or visit our web page at Maricopa County Cooperative Extension, 4341 E. Broadway Road, Box 105 ht t p : / / a g . a r i z o n a . e d u / m a r i c o p a / g a rd e n / Phoenix, AZ 85040-8807. html/pubs/mgjournal.htm