How to Plant for a Small Desert Garden

Desert gardens can include much more than cactus. Plants that are native to desert regions are naturally adapted to arid conditions and are well suited to home landscapes. You can plant other types of plants, such as roses or zinnias, if you like the color and fragrance these plants provide, but be aware that their water needs can be great in hot, dry parts of the country. To conserve water and keep your water bill low, choose plants that occur naturally.

Pencil
Paper
Measuring tape
Shovel or trowel
Compost

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the area where you want to build your garden. Then plot it on graph paper to assist you in planning your small desert garden area.
- 2
  Visit a nursery in your area that carries a good selection of plants that are suited to your desert region and purchase an appropriate number of plants, based on their mature size and the space you have available.
- 3
  Dig one part compost into every four parts of soil. The soil in many desert regions is sandy and will dry out quickly. When you add organic materials, it improves the drainage and adds nutrients that all plants need.
- 4
  Measure and mark the locations for each plant, allowing sufficient space between plants.
- 5
  Dig planting holes in your marked areas that are larger than the root system of your potted plants. Then remove all plants from their nursery pots and set them into the holes, backfilling with the soil mixture you dug out.
- 6
  Water the area for 20 to 30 minutes and keep the soil evenly moist until you see new growth emerging. You needn't give native plants regular water after they become established.

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