YOU CAN STILL ENJOY BEING OUTDOORS IN THE HOT SUMMER OF ARIZONA!

In the high-deserts of Globe, Miami and San Carlos (3500-4500 ft elevations), the morning and evening hours are perfect for many outdoor activities. It’s cool enough to garden, upgrade your landscaping or add to your small, backyard farm. All it takes is a little planning and help from your local nursery!

First, purchase plants which are hardy and conditioned to the Arizona heat. Otherwise, you are setting yourself up to fail. Golden Hills Nursery is currently fully-stocked with hardy shade, flowering and fruit trees which are appropriately conditioned for our local climates. Many of my plants are grown in my own soil mix, using native soil, and are ready to plant. The summer heat is also a perfect time to install a Bermuda grass lawn, either from seed or sod. I carry both.

Second, just like real estate, gardening is also about “location, location, location.” I locate my plants in appropriate areas with relationship to the sun. Sun lovers (most shade and fruit trees) are in full sun while more shade oriented plants are in various degrees of shade. Of course, some plants do not tolerate high temperatures - sun or shade. Water needs, cold hardiness and soil environments are also critically important. Call or visit me, Mike Shirley at Golden Hills Nursery, for better information and, hopefully, better results.

Lastly, consider putting in a little “sweat equity” this summer to raise your own food. My poultry pens and brooders are stocked with bantams, pullets, ducks, guineas and baby geese. Or, plant a vegetable garden. Make a commitment to raise fresh, home-grown vegetables, fruits, eggs and meat. It will save you money on groceries and provide an enjoyable way to spend your summer.

Don’t let hot temperatures keep you from enjoying Mother Nature! Call or stop by Golden Hills Nursery today for more summer gardening ideas.