Organic Landscaping

Planning- Holly is a plant widely associated with Christmas, but it generally only grows in climates that are colder than those offered here in the arid Southwest. Desert barberry (Berberis haematocarpa) and barberry (B. fremontii) are two options that will substitute nicely. These closely related evergreens have the look and feel of holly and are cold-hardy enough to handle our mild winters. Both varieties thrive through the hot and dry conditions of summer and require only minimal irrigation to supplement dry spells. Planting- Only cold hardy plants should be planted during the month of December Care- Frost is the main concern here. On the coldest of nights, cover susceptible plants with frost cloth or plastic. In a pinch, burlap, a bed sheet, or even a blanket will do. Secure the cover with clothes pins to prevent wind from blowing it away. For longer stretches of time, it is best to craft a supportive frame that will keep the material from contacting the plant. Also make sure to