Create a maintainable and drought tolerant landscape. Use flagstone for a beautiful and unique walkway.
9 DECORATIVE ROCK YARDS
Nevada
Las Vegas
2600 W. Ann Rd. (702) 471-ROCK (7625)
5380 Blue Diamond Rd. (702) 382-ROCK (7625)
8725 S. Eastern Ave. (702) 251-ROCK (7625)
Pahrump
911 Buol Rd. (775) 775-5300
Arizona
Utah
4140 Stockton Hill Rd. (928) 757-STAR (7827)
Fort Mohave
Kingman 6325 Hwy. 95 (928) 788-STAR (7827)
Lake Havasu
1141 N. Lake Havasu Ave. (928) 505-ROCK (7625)
DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE
1335 S. Dixie Dr. (435) 673-5436
Dixie 1145 W. Sunset Blvd. (435) 215-4356
St. George
Art/Design Doug Ryan
Contributing Staff Kelly Davis Madalyn Watt
Editor Tim Jeffery
Horticultural Experts Joey Lynn Paul Noe Our Staff
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Q’s Seasonal Recipe: Sour Grapes
WITH OVER 40 YEARS OF HISTORY, STAR NURSERY IS YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER FOR GROWING BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES IN THE DESERT. ACROSS OUR 16 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS, WE’VE DEDICATED OURSELVES TO DELIVERING AFFORDABLE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY AND EXPERT ADVICE THAT IS TAILORED TO OUR ENVIRONMENT.
OUR HISTORY
In 1983, Craig Keough, founder and owner, noticed the absence of a convenient one-stop shop where the community could purchase affordable landscape supplies. Starting with humble origins, Mr. Keough began selling plants at his first location on the corner of Wynn Road and Tropicana. Over the years, Star Nursery has grown in tandem with the growth of the Southwest. Today, we have locations across Southern Nevada, Southern Utah, and Northern Arizona.
Our journey is marked by a commitment to ensure that the communities we serve can access the resources needed to build gardens and landscapes at a reasonable cost. We believe that beautiful outdoor spaces shouldn’t be a luxury, but a possibility for everyone.
OUR PROMISE HOUSE CALLS
At Star Nursery, our promise is rooted in your success. Aware of the challenges that desert gardening presents, our staff is committed to continuous learning. Through education programs, community partnerships, and the passing down of generational knowledge, we ensure that our plant experts stay up to date on the latest horticultural knowledge.
When you need advice on your landscape, view our online garden resources, stop by and chat with an expert, or schedule a one-on-one consultation!
If you’ve been experiencing problems in your yard and can’t seem to find a solution, call Dr. Q!
A wide range of factors can affect a plant’s health. Most of the time, our in-store experts will be able to offer gardeners a solution on the spot! However, there are times when diagnosing an issue is more complex. In this case, you may require an expert to visit your home and examine the issue.
When you schedule a house call with the Dr. Q team, you’ll receive one-on-one advice from a Star Nursery expert. For a service fee of $90, you will receive up to one hour of consultation in your yard. To set up an appointment, please visit your favorite Star Nursery location to purchase your House Call.
LOCATIONS
Las Vegas, NV
Ann Road & Simmons 2600 W. Ann Rd. North Las Vegas, NV 89031 (702) 216-STAR (7827)
West Cheyenne & Tenaya 7330 W. Cheyenne Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89129 (702) 253-STAR (7827)
W. Charleston Blvd. & Cimmaron 8170 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89117 (702) 360-STAR (7827)
W. Tropicana & Fort Apache 9480 W. Tropicana Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89147 (702) 278-STAR (7827)
Boulder Hwy. & E. Tropicana 5340 Boulder Highway Las Vegas, NV 89122 (702) 435-STAR (7827)
S. Eastern & Pebble
8725 S. Eastern Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89123 (702) 333-STAR (7827)
Blue Diamond & Lindell
5380 Blue Diamond Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89139 (702) 444-STAR (7827)
Lake Havasu Ave. & College Dr. 1141 N. Lake Havasu Ave. Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403 (928) 505-ROCK (7625)
Kingman, AZ
Stockton Hill Rd. & Gordon Dr. 4140 Stockton Hill Rd. Kingman, AZ 86409 (928) 757-STAR (7827)
Fort Mohave, AZ
Hwy. 95 & Boundary Cone Rd. 6325 Hwy. 95 Fort Mohave, AZ 86426 (928) 788-STAR (7827)
Bullhead City, AZ
Mohave Dr. & Miracle Mile 1579 Mohave Dr. Bullhead City, AZ 86442 (928) 758-STAR (7827)
St. George, UT
Sunset Blvd. & Bluff St. 1145 W. Sunset Blvd. St. George, UT 84770 (435) 688-STAR (7827)
Dixie Dr. & Gubler Ln. 1335 S. Dixie Dr. St. George, UT 84770 (435) 674-STAR (7827)
Washington, UT
Telegraph Rd. & 500 W. 385 W. Telegraph Rd. Washington, UT 84780 (435) 986-0820
IS ARTIFICIAL TURF RIGHT FOR YOU?
Let’s dive into the pros and cons
Artificial turf has gained popularity as a versatile alternative to natural grass. Whether in sports fields, residential lawns, or commercial spaces, its usage continues to grow. However, like any solution, artificial turf comes with advantages and disadvantages. Let’s dive into its pros and cons.
The Pros
1. Low Maintenance: Artificial turf eliminates the need for mowing, watering, fertilizing, and weeding. This saves time and money, making it an attractive option for busy homeowners and businesses.
2. Durability: It’s designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for sports fields and high-activity areas. Unlike natural grass, artificial turf doesn’t easily wear down or develop patches.
3. Water Conservation: Artificial turf requires no watering, offering an eco-friendly solution in regions facing water shortages.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: It maintains a lush, green appearance year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
1. Upfront Cost: The initial installation cost of artificial turf can be high, especially for large areas. Check with your local water company for grass removal rebates.
2. Environmental Concerns: While it conserves water, artificial turf is made of synthetic materials and has a limited lifespan, which can lead to disposal issues.
3. Heat Retention: Artificial turf can become extremely hot under direct sunlight, making it uncomfortable for walking or playing in warm climates.
4. Lack of Ecosystem Support: Natural grass contributes to the local ecosystem by supporting insects, birds, and soil health. Artificial turf provides no such benefits.
Artificial turf offers a practical solution for those seeking a low-maintenance, visually appealing surface. However, its environmental impact and potential health concerns mean it isn’t suitable for everyone. Choosing between artificial turf and natural grass depends on your priorities—whether you lean toward cost-effectiveness and convenience or environmental sustainability.
Star Nursery carries a large selection of artificial turf for as low as $1.99 per square foot. Visit us online at starnursery.com for more information.
JUNE Summer Gardener’s Calendar & Holidays
National
• Rose Month
• Pollinator Month
• Perennial Garden Month
• Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Month
• Water Responsibly: Resist the temptation to overwater your plants during the intense summer heat. Plant roots need oxygen too and if the soil stays too wet, for too long, it can be just as harmful to your plants as underwatering. Remember deep, infrequent watering builds strong root systems and keeps weed growth to a minimum.
• Mulch: Now is the time to add a fresh layer of mulch to your yard. Mulching helps lower soil temperature and retain moisture. Avoid stem rot by keeping the mulch 2–3 inches from the stems of flowers and trunks of woody plants. Try Dr. Q’s Paydirt Planting Mix & Mulch, a premium grade, fully composted garden mulch.
• Insect Pests: Common insects like roaches, ants, spiders, earwigs and sowbugs (roly poly), can be controlled with insecticides like Bonide’s Revenge Home Guard. It kills on contact and forms an invisible barrier that continues to kill insects for up to 18 months indoors.
• Prevent/Control Spider Mites: Spray your evergreens like cypress, juniper and pine with a high pressure stream of water and wash the foliage every 2–3 weeks. Spider Mite symptoms include a dusty, off color or rust colored appearance with fine spider-like webbing on the foliage. If present, treat with BioAdvance Insect, Disease & Mite control.
• Plant Heat-loving Flowers: Star flower, vinca, marigold, moss rose, zinnia, gazania, salvia and verbena are summer all stars. Give them a great start and keep them blooming with Dr. Q’s Rose & Flower Food. Apply at planting and every 4–6 weeks after, during the growing season.
• Lawn Maintenance: Keep it healthy without pushing excessive growth using a mild, balanced fertilizer like our Dr. Q’s Triple Play 7-7-7 Allow the lawn to grow longer this summer. Keeping it 2–3 inches high can decrease mowing frequency, water use and soil temperature. Keep an eye out for common summer issues like fungus, insect pests, and unsightly weed growth. If your grass isn’t looking it’s best and you’re not sure why, stop by your favorite Star Nursery Garden Center location to discuss solutions with one of our experts.
• 1st–7th National Garden Week
• 6th National Gardening Exercise Day
• 10th National Herbs and Spices Day
• 11th National Corn on the Cob Day
• 12th National Red Rose Day
• 13th National Weed Your Garden Day
• 16th Arborist Appreciation Day
• 16th National Fresh Vegetables Day
• 16th–22nd National Pollinator Week
• 23rd National Pink Flamingo Day
• 27th National Orange Blossom Day
• 27th National Onion Day
The first step was looking at the environment around my garden. How much sun does my garden actually get. Hmmm.. did I have trees, my house, anything providing shade? NO! It was smack dab in the middle of pure desert, with sun ALL day.
• Irrigation check-up: July is one of the hottest months in our desert climate, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying your garden. Take advantage of the cooler parts of the day to walk your yard and ensure your irrigation system is working properly. Catching irrigation issues early, saves you time and money. Plus, you get to enjoy your yard when the temperatures are much more comfortable out.
Next, was buying the cloth. 50%, 60% ,70%. What did all those numbers mean?! Back to go visit my BFF, Mr. Handy Google. I’ll save you guys a trip. The number represents the percentage of sunlight being filtered. So, a 50% will filter out 50% of the light coming in, 60% filters out 60%, etc. Mr. G. also kindly mentioned that most edible plants will do well between 3050% with 60% pushing it to too much light filtered out.
April was coming to an end and I still didn’t have the cloth up. Then came this amazing collaboration with Star Nursery and it really lit the fire under my tush. I put on my garden boots, rolled up my sleeves, headed to my local star nursery to finish gathering supplies and get started.
• Make Your Own Shade: If your new landscape additions are struggling in the intense summer sun, we’ve got you covered. We have pre-rolled shade cloth options on hand, or you can buy it by the linear foot. Step into comfort by putting up temporary shade to cool your garden and keep it looking its best.
I chose a 40% over the entire garden and a 50% over the greenhouse. Seeds don’t require much light in the beginning but that’s for another article. It was the perfect balance!
Guys make sure you beat the heat and cover up! Go to your local Star Nursery, get your shade covers and remember to invite me over for some fresh salsa in July! I’ll bring the cantaloupe!
• best crop quality for all of your gardening efforts.
• Plant Late Summer, Early Fall Vegetables: July is a good time to start seeding heat-loving plants like corn, beans, squash, melons and tomatoes. Planting them now will yield a late summer/early fall harvest. If you want to grow your own halloween pumpkin, plant them now for an October harvest.
Inspiring you to start a garden www.TheVixenGarden.com
• 4th Independence Day National
• 6th National Build a Scarecrow Day
• 8th National Blueberry Day
• 10th National Pick Blueberries Day
• 10th National Don’t Step on a Bee Day
• 16th National Cherry Day
• 16th National Fresh Spinach Day
• Blueberry Month
• Watermelon Month
• Eggplant Month
Claudia Ivonne
National
• Peach Month
AUGUST
• Cut Tomato Plants Back by 50%: This encourages new growth and flowering. As the nighttime temperatures begin to cool, tomatoes will set fruit again to give you a bonus fall crop! If you planted determinate varieties, they are finished for the season. You call pull them out and free up the space for your fall crops.
• Start Seeds For Cool Weather Gardening: Late August is a great time to start seeds for flowers like pansies, violas and snapdragons. By the time the plants reach flowering size, cool weather will be here once again. The same can be said about your fall vegetable crops, like lettuce, spinach, kale, collards, swiss chard, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, peas and beets! Start your seeds inside while the temperatures are still hot 4-6 weeks before you plan to plant. Note: for other cool season root crops like, carrots, radishes and turnips, or bulb crops like onions, and garlic it’s best to wait until late September and directly sow them into the garden.
• Give Your Roses Some Love: Summer is winding down but its not over and it isn’t usually kind to our roses. With a little love they will perk back up and put on a beautiful fall show. For now, keep faded flowers cut, top off with a cooling layer of mulch and give them a boost with Dr. Q’s Plant Tonic. Designed specifically to help plants recover from seasonal stress or transplant shock and promote healthy root development with supplemental micronutirents.
• Powdery Mildew: A common fungus that can infect all types of landscape plants. This white/gray “powdery” looking fungus creates spores that grow on the outside of the leaf. It’s important to treat it early to prevent it from spreading to your other landscape plants. Use Bonide Sulfur Dust according to package directions and re-apply every 5-10 days until treated.
• 3rd–9th National Farmers Market Wk.
• 3rd National Watermelon Day
• 8th National Sneak Some Zucchini Into Your Neighbor’s Porch Day
• 10th National Melon Day
• 16th World Honey Bee Day Green Pages, Summer, 2025
• 19th National Potato Day
• 24th–28th World Water Week
WATER SMART CLASSES FREE!
Get the help you need to make your landscape desert-friendly, and your irrigation system and home more water-efficient! These FREE CLASSES are taught by experts from the Southern Nevada Water Authority in partnership with the Springs Preserve.
CLASSES IN ENGLISH CLASES EN ESPAÑOL
BASICS OF PERFORMING A HOME WATER AUDIT
BASICS OF A WATER SMART LANDSCAPE DRIP IRRIGATION
Find class dates & times SCAN TO REGISTER
BASES PARA CREAR UN HUERTO Y UN JARDÍN EFICIENTE
BASES PARA INSTALAR UN SISTEMA DE RIEGO POR GOTEO
AUDITORÍA DE AGUA EN EL HOGAR
Classes are offered both in person and online. In-person classes are held at the Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd.
For additional landscaping resources, visit snwa.com.
GROWING GRAPES IN THE DESERT SOUTHWEST
Can be both beautiful & bountiful!
The desert southwest, with its long sunny days and low humidity, can be an excellent place to grow both table and wine grapes–with the right care. This guide focuses on successfully cultivating the following varieties in hot, arid climates:
Table Grapes
Thompson Seedless: Sweet, green-yellow seedless grapes. Great for fresh eating and raisins, but sensitive to summer sunburn.
Concord: Dark purple grapes with a bold, tangy flavor. Commonly used for juices and jellies, performs best in cooler high desert areas.
Perlette: Pale green and crisp with a subtle sweetness. One of the earliest to ripen, great for fresh snacking.
Red Flame: A popular red seedless grape with spicy-sweet flavor. Handles desert heat well with good spacing and airflow.
Wine Grapes
Cabernet Sauvignon: Small dark grapes used for bold red wines. Heat-tolerant and ideal for valley conditions with cool nights.
Merlot: Medium-sized dark grapes with a smooth, fruity flavor. Ripens earlier and is easier to grow than cabernet.
Zinfandel: Medium-sized dark grapes produce rich, spicy red wines. Needs space and some protection from direct sun in peak heat.
Chardonnay: Versatile small green-gold grape used for many white wine styles. Adapts well to desert sun with well-draining soil.
Pinot Noir: Delicate small dark grapes with cherry-like flavor. Difficult to grow in low elevations; best in cooler or elevated sites.
Sauvignon Blanc: Medium-sized green crisp citrus-forward grape perfect for white wine. Grows well in hot, dry regions with airflow and moderate shade.
Climate & Sun Requirements
Grapes thrive in the desert’s intense sunlight, but they do need some protection during the extreme summer heat–especially young vines.
• Spring through Early Summer: Full sun is ideal to encourage vigorous growth.
• Mid to Late Summer (July–August): Use 50-60% shade cloth in the hottest part of the day or position vines near light afternoon shade. This helps prevent sunburn on fruit and foliage.
• Fall through Dormancy: Full sun exposure is fine.
Soil Preparation & Amendments
Desert soils are often sandy or clay-heavy, with low organic matter. Grapes prefer well-draining loam and benefit from added nutrients. Plant vines on raised rows or mounds to avoid root rot in poorly draining areas.
• Soil pH: Aim for a pH of 6.0–6.5.
• Amend with: Compost & Dr. Q’s Paydirt or Dr. Q’s Vegetable and Herb Planting Mix to increase organic content.
• Dr. Q’s Plant Tonic or similar balanced soil conditioner
• Perlite or sand for better drainage in clay soils
Planting & Spacing
Plant in early spring after the last frost, giving roots time to establish before the heat of summer.
• Spacing: 6-8 feet apart for table grapes; 4-6 feet for wine grapes.
• Trellis Systems: Are essential–T-type or vertical shoot positioning (VSP) trellises work best.
Thomspon Seedless
Concord
Perlette
Red Flame
Cabernet Sauvignon
Watering Needs
While drought-tolerant once established, grapevines need deep, infrequent watering in the desert.
• New Vines: Water 2-3 times per week during the first summer.
• Established Vines: 1 deep soak per week is usually sufficient.
• Use drip irrigation with emitters placed at the base of the plant.
• Reduce watering after harvest and stop entirely as vines go dormant.
Pruning & Training
Proper pruning improves air circulation, sunlight penetration, and fruit production.
• Winter Pruning (Dormant Season): Remove 90% of last year’s growth; choose 2-4 canes to retain.
• Summer Pruning: Light thinning to improve airflow and reduce fungal risk.
• Use the spur pruning method for wine grapes and cane pruning for table grapes like Thompson Seedless and Perlette.
Harvesting
• Table Grapes: Harvest when fully ripe–sweetness doesn’t increase after picking. Thompson Seedless and Perlette ripen in late June to July, Red Flame and Concord follow in late summer.
• Wine Grapes: Harvest based on Brix (sugar level) and acidity. Cabernet, Merlot, and Zinfandel ripen late summer to early fall. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are earlier, usually in August.
Taste, color, and ease of removal from the stem are good ripeness indicators for both types.
Final Tips for Desert Growers
• Mulch around base with bark or straw to reduce soil evaporation.
• Protect from birds with netting during fruiting season.
• Fertilize in early spring with a low nitrogen blend.
• Monitor for powdery mildew and spider mites, which can be more prevalent in dry climates.
With patience and the right techniques, grape growing in the desert Southwest can be both beautiful and bountiful!
Merlot
Zinfandel
Chardonnay
Pinot Noir
Sauvignon Blanc
DR. Q’S SEASONAL RECIPE
Frozen Sour Candied Grapes
Prep Time:
Ǻ 5 minutes
Chill Time:
Ǻ 2 hours
Total Time:
Ǻ 2 hours 5 minutes
Ingredients:
Ǻ 4 cups Green Grapes, rinsed, organic, if desired
Ǻ 1 cup Organic Cane Sugar
Ǻ 2 Limes, juiced
Ǻ 2-3 tbsp. Citric Acid, optional
Instructions:
1) Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, set aside.
2) Combine grapes, lime juice and if using citric acid add it to the mixture, mix well until evenly coated.
3) Refrigerate the grape mixture for 10 minutes.
4) While chilling the grapes, add sugar to a large clean mixing bowl.
5) Remove the chilled grape mixture from the refrigerator and toss mix in the cane sugar until evenly coated.
6) Place sugar coated grapes on a parchment lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap and place in the freezer for 2 hours.
7) Once grapes have been thoroughly chilled they are ready to enjoy!
To store:
Keep them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to a month.
NV NURSERYMAN
Congratulations to our recent graduates!
Navigating the challenges of desert gardening is always a rewarding journey, one that we at Star Nursery continue to embrace with unwavering enthusiasm. With over 44 years of dedication we have cemented our tradition of expertise and teamwork throughout the Southwest. Since 2021, our commitment to community education has flourished through our partnership with the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, which brought forth the Certified Nevada Nurserymen course. This course, led by seasoned desert gardening experts, offers high-quality guidance to our staff and local gardening enthusiasts. Throughout the twelve-week program,
students delve into a wide range of subjects, from plant biology to indoor horticulture. They explore the unique aspects of our zone 9 climate, focusing on the viability of native plants, and the delicate balance of our desert ecosystem. Participants gain valuable insights into identifying plant diseases and pests and developing effective treatment strategies. Additionally, they acquire practical skills such as pruning, potting, and propagation techniques. We take immense pride in equipping our students with expert knowledge, empowering them to assist their communities in desert gardening while also safeguarding our environment. In just four years, numerous Star
Nursery team members have proudly become graduates, with many more currently on this educational journey. Recently, we celebrated the graduation of 14 students, encouraging them to continue sharing their newfound knowledge with their communities. When you visit our nursery, look for the distinctive blue Nevada pin worn by our team members—a sign that you’re in the capable hands of a certified Nevada Nurseryman. Feel free to ask our knowledgeable team members your desert gardening questions. We’re here to help you grow!
HYDRATED
When thinking about gardening pots, almost everyone can describe what a terracotta pot looks like. Its distinctive earthy-orange color is easy to spot anywhere. People love using them. But as the summer heats up, you find yourself watering daily and struggling to keep up. Your plants might start to suffer in return. But have you ever tried the ancient irrigation technique of Olla?
Olla is a clay pot that is buried under the soil to help water the plants near it. This irrigation practice has been used around the world from pre-Mexico, China, and north Africa.
Let’s take a closer look at how people over 2,000 years ago made this work. People made the pots out of soil and fired them slowly to create pots of different sizes. The pot would have a skinnier neck with a flat top to cover the opening. This would help with evaporation. In their garden, they would bury the pot next to plants that needed the moisture. Then, the gardeners would fill the olla up with water. The water would seep out from the sides, the roots would find the water and get exactly what they needed.
The same is still true for ollas today. All you do is put it in the ground, add water, and let it do its trick!
A few things to keep in mind; First, based on the diameter of the pot will determine how far the water can spread out. Bury the plant too far away the roots might not be able to reach.
Also, the water flow will depend on many factors such as temperature outside, so check on water level about every 72 hours. If it is less than half full, refill. Don’t forget you need something to cover the olla to protect the water from bugs. Even a rock will do!
Plus, be aware as weather gets near areas with hard freezes. There is potential for an olla to crack or break. You can
take it out of the ground for the winter months.
Finally, consider if the olla is too close to a woody plant with strong roots as it could break overtime as well. For example, trees would need careful placement of the olla.
Ollas can be an additional tool in your gardening belt. It can supplement your watering habits during the summer months in Nevada’s arid region by giving the plants a consistent water source. The benefits are obvious, water goes to the source–the roots and not only the leaves which can be crucial in helping your plants thrive in hot temperatures. It truly assists in the months of drought and can save up to 50 percent water instead of just using a hose or irrigation. Additionally, it slows down evaporation. Best of all, it saves you some time and energy!
DIY Garden Irrigation
Create a simple olla using terra cotta pots and saucers:
1. Glue two pots together at the open ends.
2. Seal one hole with a saucer.
3. Bury the olla near plants, leaving the open hole exposed for refilling.
4. Cover the opening with a saucer to reduce evaporation.
Olla Alternatives:
Want to try this idea but on a small scale? Try the Never Dry Plant Pal Kit They are designed to release just the right amount of water into the soil. As the soil begins to dry, it will slowly release the water as needed, just like the olla! They are also great for vacation watering, so you wont have to worry about hiring a plant sitter.
For larger projects in your landscape, consider adding DEEP DRIP Watering Stakes. They direct water and nutrients deep to the plants root zone, reducing surface watering, preventing runoff, evaporation and leading to deeper, stronger roots, healthier plants, increased harvests and reduced water bills.
Find these and even more irrigation solutions at your favorite Star Nursery Garden Center!
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO EMU BUSHES
Varieties that will thrive in your desert southwest garden
Looking to spice up your garden in the desert Southwest? Emu Bush (scientifically known as Eremophila) could be the answer! This Australian native plant has been taking gardens by storm with its stunning flowers and ability to thrive in tough conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, here are four musthave varieties of Emu Bush that will add color, texture, and resilience to your garden.
Winter Blaze:
A Winter Color Pop Winter Blaze offers vibrant red flowers that bloom in winter, brightening up your garden
when most plants are dormant. Its compact size and dense foliage make it perfect for small or large gardens, thriving in full sunlight and welldrained soil.
Blue Bells:
Pollinator Paradise With bellshaped flowers ranging from pale blue to violet, Blue Bells attracts bees and butterflies. Thriving in sandy or rocky soils, it’s ideal for xeriscaping, offering low water needs and beautiful blooms that support local pollinators.
Valentine Bush:
A Romantic Desert Favorite Valentine Bush blooms in rich pinkish-red flowers, adding color and contrast to your garden. Hardy and drought-tolerant, it handles both frost and dry conditions, making it a low-maintenance beauty that offers year-round interest with evergreen leaves.
Outback
Sunrise:
Desert Sunrise in Your Backyard
Outback Sunrise features bright yellow-orange flowers that resemble a desert sunrise. Once established, it’s drought-tolerant and attracts native birds, making it a vibrant, easy-care plant perfect for a low-water garden.
Emu
Bush Care:
Keeping Your Plants Thriving in the Desert. Emu Bush varieties are known for being tough, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance, making them perfect for desert Southwest gardens. However, like any plant, they do require a bit of care to ensure they stay healthy and vibrant.
Here’s a quick guide to help you keep your Emu Bush looking its best:
1. Sunlight
Emu Bush plants love the sun! They thrive in full sunlight and need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Make sure to plant them in an area that gets plenty of sunshine, especially in the hotter months.
2. Soil
Well-drained soil is key for the success of your Emu Bush. These plants don’t like to sit in soggy soil, so it’s important to plant them in soil that drains well, such as sandy or rocky soils. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
3. Watering
While Emu Bush plants are drought-tolerant, they still need some water to get established. Water them deeply but infrequently, especially during the hotter months. Once established, they will require little water, so be careful not to overwater them. In fact, it’s better to underwater than overwater.
4. Pruning
To keep your Emu Bush looking tidy and encourage more blooms, prune it after flowering. Remove any
dead or damaged branches, and trim back any leggy growth. This will help promote a bushier shape and keep the plant looking full and vibrant.
5. Fertilizing
Emu Bushes are not heavy feeders, so they don’t require much fertilizer. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring should be sufficient. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers, so it’s best to keep it minimal.
6. Pests and Diseases
These plants are generally pest-resistant, but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for common desert garden pests like aphids or spider mites. If you notice any pests, use a gentle insecticidal soap or a strong spray of water to remove them. Emu Bushes are also fairly resistant to diseases, though overwatering can sometimes lead to fungal issues, so be mindful of your watering schedule.
7. Temperature Tolerance
Emu Bush plants are well-suited to the heat of the desert, but they can also handle a little chill. Most varieties are frost-tolerant, though it’s a good idea to protect them during extreme cold spells. Mulching around the base of the plant can help protect its roots from cold temperatures during the winter.
By following these simple care guidelines, your Emu Bush varieties will flourish in the desert Southwest, adding vibrant color and texture to your garden year-round.
The Star Nursery family is made up of remarkable individuals.
Our employees are the heart and soul of our company, each with unique talents and stories that drive our success. It’s what we love most to highlight their journeys and achievements, showcasing the extraordinary impact they have on our communities. Whether through their expertise, dedication, or commitment, these stars embody our values.
First, we’d like to show appreciation for Casey Holbrook, Assistant Manager at our Kingman location and a reliable go-to team member. Casey joined Star Nursery driven by her love for plants and desire for a peaceful work environment. Her journey has been filled with growth, hands-on learning, and passion. One of Casey’s proudest achievements is managing limited space efficiently, especially during the busy spring season. She’s known for her readiness to help and her strong rapport with her team, always leading by example. For Casey, the most fulfilling part of the job is helping customers and seeing her team succeed. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, raising her children and chickens, and growing her own food. We’re grateful to have Casey as part of the Star Nursery family!
If you’ve visited our Dixie, St. George location we’re sure you’ve met Isaac, our Head Carryout and a vital part of the Rock Yard team. Isaac has been with Star Nursery for three years, with a goal to deepen his agricultural knowledge. His journey has been both fun and fulfilling, as he mastered plant care and became a reliable team player. Isaac has brought joy to customers and built strong relationships with his colleagues. Now, as he transitions to Rock Yard operations, he continues to embrace new challenges and enhance his skills. Outside work, Isaac enjoys hiking and fishing, aligning perfectly with his passion for the outdoors and plants. We are proud to have him as part of the Star Nursery team!
Meet Bobette Lee, the heart of our Mesquite Star Nursery location! As Head Cashier, she trains new cashiers, assists with sales, and ensures a welcoming customer experience. After managing an HVAC company with her husband for over 30 years, Bobette brought her strong work ethic to Star Nursery. Within a year, her dedication earned her the Head Cashier title, a role she proudly embraces. For Bobette, the most rewarding part of her job is helping customers and fostering a sense of community in her longtime hometown. Outside work, she enjoys exploring Nevada’s charming towns and scenic mountains. We’re grateful for Bobette and the warmth, wisdom, and dedication she brings to Star Nursery!
