Things to notice:
September is warm and dusty throughout much of the Southwest. Dusty leaves are a haven for mites and other insects. Hose down your plants to remove dust and dirt.

Keep an eye on acid-loving plants like gardenias, blueberries and camellias. If young leaves appear yellow, add iron to boost their growth and color.

Garden nurseries should begin to carry cool-season annuals such as ornamental cabbage, pansies, primroses, snapdragons, and stock.

Keep your eyes open for fall plant sales at local botanical gardens. These are your best opportunity to purchase desert plants like yuccas, creosote, and Mormon tea.

Pomegranate, Punica granatum

“I appreciate the misunderstanding I have had with Nature over my perennial border.  I think it is a flower garden; she thinks it is a meadow lacking grass, and tries to correct the error.” –Sara Stein

Things to do:
Harvest pomegranates!

Fertilize citrus, fruit trees and roses on Labor Day. Remember to water deeply before and after feeding.

September is a great month to plant most trees and shrubs.

Prune existing shrubs and plants.

Plant tomatoes, peppers, beans, squash, gourds and pumpkins. Transplant any cool season veggies you started indoors.

Divide and transplant irises.