Since last July, the Master Gardeners have been working diligently at the ESVC native plant demonstration garden. We have removed the huge weeds (largely bassia) that had overtaken the garden and continue to monitor the area to restrict the growth of new weeds. Some wild mallow continues to try to grow in the open areas of the garden, and Harold with his hula hoe has managed to keep it in check. We have worked on the irrigation system, shutting off the excessive water that has been killing some of the beavertail and cholla. At our last visit, we transplanted some of the plants and hope to see them flourish in the future. 

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, we were unable to return to the garden during the 2020 spring bloom, so we were an excited group of gardeners when we arrived at the garden for our May 1 work party.  We were not disappointed!

Spring is indeed the season for flowering natives. The wild roses are all open. The apricot mallow, purple sage, rose penstemmon, sulfur buckwheat and Palmer's penstemmon are a sight to behold.  In addition to the flowering plants, many of the trees and bushes have leafed out. Visitors can enjoy fern bush, desert willow, rabbitbrush, and a variety of native grasses.

Different plants in the garden should be blooming for the next few months. Drop by and enjoy your surroundings if you have a chance! The bookstore at the ESVC is now open seven days a week, so the gates are usually open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Be sure to double check dates and times before your visit as they may change.