Water-Wise Plants for the Southwest

Nan Sterman, Mary Irish, Judith Phillips and Joe Lamp’l

“Water-Wise Plants for the Southwest” is a comprehensive guide written by Nan Sterman and a team of horticultural experts, focusing on selecting and growing water-efficient plants in the Southwest region of the United States. The book provides valuable information on drought-tolerant plants, water-wise gardening techniques, and creating beautiful, low-maintenance landscapes in arid climates.

Key Sections and Details:

1. Understanding Water-Wise Gardening
   • Overview of the Southwest’s arid climate and the importance of water conservation in gardening.
   • Explanation of water-wise gardening principles and their benefits.
2. Plant Selection
   • In-depth profiles of over 300 water-wise plants, including:
     • Common and scientific names
     • Plant descriptions and growth habits
     • Water, light, and soil requirements
     • Drought tolerance and heat resistance
     • Pollinator and wildlife value
     • Care and maintenance instructions
   • Plants are organized by type (e.g., trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, grasses, and succulents) for easy reference.
3. Designing and Maintaining Water-Efficient Gardens
   • Guidance on designing and creating water-efficient gardens.
   • Information on soil improvement, irrigation, and mulching.
   • Tips on incorporating native plants and attracting pollinators and wildlife.
4. Special Features
   • Sections dedicated to:
     • Growing edibles in the Southwest
     • Creating vertical gardens and container plantings
     • Incorporating hardscaping elements into water-wise gardens
5. Resources and Further Reading
   • List of additional resources, including books, websites, and nurseries, for readers interested in learning more about water-wise gardening in the Southwest.

Nan Sterman is a horticulturist, author, and garden designer with extensive experience in growing and studying plants in the Southwest. She has written for various gardening publications and has appeared on television shows such as “A Growing Passion” and “Waterwise Gardening.”

This book is an essential resource for gardeners in the Southwest looking to create and maintain beautiful, low-maintenance landscapes using water-efficient plants. Its comprehensive coverage and practical advice make it an invaluable tool for both amateur and experienced gardeners.