Common names: Green Thumbs, Dirt People, The Manure Party

Range: Since this species has been introduced, it has spread quickly and can be located all over the world.  Unfortunately, no cure has been found.

Of all the people in the world, gardeners have got to be one of the most interesting as they are constantly subjecting themselves to all kinds of abuses normal people would not think of tolerating.  The first step into the world of gardening is usually small, a few houseplants or turning a postcard patch of earth into a flower or veggie garden.  After minimal success they often decide to cross over into other areas.  Usually beginners are soft, both mentally and physically, until the challenges of battling pests and diseases, moving tons of rocks, mourning over dead plants, digging planting holes in caliche, and varmints destroying everything in sight, eventually hardens them up.

Most gardeners develop broad vocabularies, spouting Greek or Latin effortlessly, and of course, speaking that universal language – cussing.  Some take the ultimate vow and enroll in classes to become Master Gardeners.  Gardeners are usually referred to as “big dreamers.”  There is no end in sight for gardeners – once you start, there is no stopping.  In fact, there are documented cases of people gardening for over 50 years!

Really great gardeners can be easily identified.  Ask them about a problem you have, and they will be the first to pass along their mistakes, how they solved them, and as a bonus, an additional hour of useful tips.

Usually after a few years in the field, most gardeners develop a passion for one or two subjects.  Whether it’s propagation methods, integrated pest management, or xeriscape gardening, they are a wealth of information and are highly regarded as ‘Garden Figures’ in the community.  As we bravely venture into a New Year of gardening, here are some resolutions for the New Year: 

• Teach someone – especially children – to garden. 
• Plant an herb garden
• Save water this year – get a Water Wise Audit of your home or business – contact Cado Daily at 458-8278 Ext 141 to make your appointment
• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle this year
• Start a compost pile
• Become a Master Gardener – contact the Extension Office at 458-8278, Ext 141 for details
• Plant a tree
• Start a garden journal
• Get into Natives – plant a native plant
• Join a Garden Club
• Start a wildlife garden
• Mark your calendar to attend the next High on the Desert Annual High Desert Gardening and Landscape Conference
• Sow only one squash/zucchini plant this year
• Thank the person who taught you how to garden.