July is Smart Irrigation Month - It is July, it is HOT, and our irrigation systems are working in full force. This month our focus is on the importance of efficient irrigation and how we can all play a part. The Irrigation Association has put together the following list of ways to participate in Smart Irrigation Month.

Trees are the cornerstones of our landscapes, and staking can play an essential role in giving them their best start. But all trees don’t need staking, and when staking is needed, certain guidelines must be followed to ensure the staking is done correctly to avoid detrimental effects to the tree.

Have you ever seen a beautiful plant in a landscape and wondered what it was because you would like to add it to your own landscape? Or do you have a space that needs a plant and wonder how to make the best choice? There are a number of ways to correctly identify a plant and make an informed decision on whether it is a good option for your location. Thanks to technology, many resources are at your fingertips.

Last month we brought you examples of some common abiotic – or non-living – causes of plant problems. This month, we focus on a few of our most common biotic – or living – causes of plant disorders. Biotic disorders may be caused by insects, mites, nematodes, parasitic plants, fungi, bacteria, protists (diverse collection of organisms) and viruses. Below, we highlight a few of the more common diseases you may see this time of year as the temperatures soar.

After our cool and moist February, the month of March is sure to bring warmer temperatures and a flush of spring growth as our landscape plants wake up after their short winter naps. Some plants, however, may just not seem right. Your landscape professional can help identify and treat plant problems that may arise. As part of ALCA’s Arizona Certified Landscape Professional program, we offer “Plant Problem Diagnosis” workshops for landscape professionals to further their education.