Challenge 5: Earth-Friendly and Sustainable Landscaping

As cooler weather approaches, consider enhancing your landscape with plants that support Arizona's delicate ecosystem and help promote pollinator health. Here are three types of plants to consider adding to your garden:

Plants for Butterflies

Butterflies are not only beautiful but also vital pollinators that provide natural pest control. Their presence indicates a healthy environment. Arizona-friendly plants that attract butterflies include:

• Butterfly Mist (*Conoclinum greggii*)

• Mexican Sunflower (*Tithonia rotundifolia*)

• Mirabilis Multiflora

Plants for Bees

Bees play a crucial role in food security, as one-third of global food production relies on their pollination. Plants that attract bees and thrive in Arizona’s climate include:

• White Yarrow

• Indigo Bush

• Rock Verbena

• Arizona Milkweed

• Purple Coneflower

• Aster

Native Plants

Native plants are adapted to our local climate, making them resilient and low-maintenance. They are drought-resistant, requiring less water once established, and can thrive with minimal care. Consider planting:

• Desert Marigold

• Brittlebush

• Desert Milkweed

• Chuparosa

Research which of these plants best suit your space, and help make a positive environmental impact by creating a habitat for pollinators!