By the time you read this, dense stands of bright green stinknet, with its striking yellow flowers, will have turned a drab brown. Stinknet (Oncosiphon piluliferum), also called globe chamomile and manzanilla apestosa, is a winter-spring annual native to South Africa, but highly invasive in the Southwest. It was first noticed in Phoenix in 1997, and in Tucson in 2015.

Most, if not all, landscaping plants in arid environments require supplemental water to survive and thrive. So, making sure that drip emitters or bubblers are properly located near plants and that the irrigation system functions properly are essential tasks for landscape managers. But there’s more to it than that.

Insects and snakes are common creatures found in many parts of the world, and while they can be fascinating to observe, they can also pose a danger to humans. Understanding how to stay safe around insects and snakes is important, especially for those who spend time outdoors.

The experts say at least 80% of industrial accidents are caused by unsafe acts on the part of employees—and not by unsafe conditions. Although employers are required by law to provide a safe and healthful workplace, it is up to you to be aware of your work environment and follow safe work practices. Doing so will reduce accidents, increase productivity, and save costs.

Have you ever strolled by plants and noticed something’s been munching on the leaves? Or maybe there’s a mysterious brown spot in a tree that seemed to develop overnight? Sometimes plant pests come and go in a matter of days, but their damage may linger for months after they’ve moved to a new green ‘residence’. Fortunately, our dry desert conditions don’t make for an overly welcoming environment for arthropod ‘friends’ to reside. However, during mild times of the year, a few critters may be lurking in our landscape. Here are a few to watch out for in the coming months.