Garden Gal

Gorgeous hydrangeas! These showstoppers bring a burst of color to any garden. From classic Bigleaf to the climbing Miranda, there’s a hydrangea for every space. Bigleaf hydrangeas change color with your soil’s pH–blue in acidic soil and pink in alkaline. Climbing hydrangeas add vertical interest, while Oakleaf dazzles with its fall foliage. Peegee hydrangeas can even be trained into trees! Smooth hydrangeas like Annabelle are known for their massive blooms. Remember, pruning depends on whether they bloom on old or new wood. Hydrangeas thrive in well-drained soil with plenty of compost, preferring bright shade in our Arizona climate.

Lilacs… just the word conjures up memories of Grandma’s garden, right? That unforgettable fragrance, those beautiful blooms … lilacs are a classic for a reason. And here in Prescott, they thrive like nowhere else with our mountain air and sunshine.

Here’s a little secret: the best time to plant your perfect lilac is right now, before they start leafing out. You get the pick of the litter. We’ve got all the classics, from the deep purples of “Charles Joly” to the unique blooms of “Sensation.” Plus, I’ve hand-picked some varieties perfect for Prescott’s unique climate, like the warm-winter-loving “Lavender Lady” and the late-blooming “Miss Kim.”

This spring, find the perfect lilac to fill the garden with fragrance and beauty. Here are my Top 10 Lilacs for a more fragrant garden and my grandmother’s Lilac Jelly recipe.

Bringing the outdoors in with lush greenery is an excellent way to spruce up your sweet home. Extra care is needed for your indoor plants if you have furry friends roaming around. We want our pets to be happy and healthy, but some common houseplants can cause anything from mild irritation to a full-blown pet emergency. Keep your pet paradise toxin-free and choose plants that won’t make our four-legged pals do a double take.

Fortunately, many “pawsitively perfect” pet-friendly plants can add life and beauty to your home without posing a risk to your beloved animals. Here are a few of the best choices, along with tips on how to grow them indoors: