Fall is one of our favorite times of the year. 

 

Fall can have distinct effects on desert landscaping, which differs from the typical fall changes observed in temperate regions. You might notice that your plants look healthier than in summer. This is why gardeners in the desert often refer to autumn as our ‘second spring.’ In desert climates, fall brings about some unique challenges and opportunities for maintaining and enhancing the landscape. You may be wondering what changes fall might bring about in your yard. Here are some of the differences you may see in your plants this time of year: 

 

  • Darker foliage replaced the sun-bleached appearance of some plants due to less intense sunlight.
  • As the sun’s intensity diminishes, flowering increases and the blooms appear more vibrant. 
  • Some plants only bloom in fall, like black dalea (Dalea frutescens), cascalote (Caesalpinia cacalaco), and my favorite pink muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris).

 

Overall, the fall season brings significant changes to your yard, signaling a transition from the growth and vibrancy of summer to the preparation and dormancy of winter. Embracing these changes and taking appropriate care of your yard during fall can help ensure its health and beauty throughout the changing seasons. If you have questions concerning your landscape and the changing seasons, feel free to schedule a consultation with us.