Never say “I can’t keep houseplants alive” ever again...
Spring Gardener’s Calendar
Seasonal tips from our experts to put the Spring back in your garden’s step!
Spice up your garden today!
Whether you’re craving the sweet, the smoky, or the lip-numbing spicy, we’ve got the perfect pepper for you!
Star Nursery - Your Garden’s Partner for Every Bloomin’ Thing!
Garden Centers
Create a maintainable and drought tolerant landscape. Use flagstone for a beautiful and unique walkway.
9 DECORATIVE ROCK YARDS
Nevada
Las Vegas
2600 W. Ann Rd. (702) 471-ROCK (7625)
5380 Blue Diamond Rd. (702) 382-ROCK (7625)
8725 S. Eastern Ave. (702) 251-ROCK (7625)
Pahrump
911 Buol Rd. (775) 775-5300
Arizona
Utah
4140 Stockton Hill Rd. (928) 757-STAR (7827)
Fort Mohave
Kingman 6325 Hwy. 95 (928) 788-STAR (7827)
Lake Havasu
1141 N. Lake Havasu Ave. (928) 505-ROCK (7625)
DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE
1335 S. Dixie Dr. (435) 673-5436
Dixie 1145 W. Sunset Blvd. (435) 215-4356
St. George
Art/Design Doug Ryan
Contributing Staff Kelly Davis Madalyn Watt
Editor Tim Jeffery
Horticultural Experts Joey Lynn Paul Noe
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WITH OVER 40 YEARS OF HISTORY, STAR NURSERY IS YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER FOR GROWING BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES IN THE DESERT. ACROSS OUR 16 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS, WE’VE DEDICATED OURSELVES TO DELIVERING AFFORDABLE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY AND EXPERT ADVICE THAT IS TAILORED TO OUR ENVIRONMENT.
OUR HISTORY
In 1983, Craig Keough, founder and owner, noticed the absence of a convenient one-stop shop where the community could purchase affordable landscape supplies. Starting with humble origins, Mr. Keough began selling plants at his first location on the corner of Wynn Road and Tropicana. Over the years, Star Nursery has grown in tandem with the growth of the Southwest. Today, we have locations across Southern Nevada, Southern Utah, and Northern Arizona.
Our journey is marked by a commitment to ensure that the communities we serve can access the resources needed to build gardens and landscapes at a reasonable cost. We believe that beautiful outdoor spaces shouldn’t be a luxury, but a possibility for everyone.
OUR PROMISE HOUSE CALLS
At Star Nursery, our promise is rooted in your success. Aware of the challenges that desert gardening presents, our staff is committed to continuous learning. Through education programs, community partnerships, and the passing down of generational knowledge, we ensure that our plant experts stay up to date on the latest horticultural knowledge.
When you need advice on your landscape, view our online garden resources, stop by and chat with an expert, or schedule a one-on-one consultation!
If you’ve been experiencing problems in your yard and can’t seem to find a solution, call Dr. Q!
A wide range of factors can affect a plant’s health. Most of the time, our in-store experts will be able to offer gardeners a solution on the spot! However, there are times when diagnosing an issue is more complex. In this case, you may require an expert to visit your home and examine the issue.
When you schedule a house call with the Dr. Q team, you’ll receive one-on-one advice from a Star Nursery expert. For a service fee of $90, you will receive up to one hour of consultation in your yard. To set up an appointment, please visit your favorite Star Nursery location to purchase your House Call.
LOCATIONS
Las Vegas, NV
Ann Road & Simmons 2600 W. Ann Rd. North Las Vegas, NV 89031 (702) 216-STAR (7827)
West Cheyenne & Tenaya 7330 W. Cheyenne Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89129 (702) 253-STAR (7827)
W. Charleston Blvd. & Cimmaron 8170 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89117 (702) 360-STAR (7827)
W. Tropicana & Fort Apache 9480 W. Tropicana Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89147 (702) 278-STAR (7827)
Boulder Hwy. & E. Tropicana 5340 Boulder Highway Las Vegas, NV 89122 (702) 435-STAR (7827)
S. Eastern & Pebble
8725 S. Eastern Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89123 (702) 333-STAR (7827)
Blue Diamond & Lindell
5380 Blue Diamond Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89139 (702) 444-STAR (7827)
Lake Havasu Ave. & College Dr. 1141 N. Lake Havasu Ave. Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403 (928) 505-ROCK (7625)
Kingman, AZ
Stockton Hill Rd. & Gordon Dr. 4140 Stockton Hill Rd. Kingman, AZ 86409 (928) 757-STAR (7827)
Fort Mohave, AZ
Hwy. 95 & Boundary Cone Rd. 6325 Hwy. 95 Fort Mohave, AZ 86426 (928) 788-STAR (7827)
Bullhead City, AZ
Mohave Dr. & Miracle Mile 1579 Mohave Dr. Bullhead City, AZ 86442 (928) 758-STAR (7827)
St. George, UT
Sunset Blvd. & Bluff St. 1145 W. Sunset Blvd. St. George, UT 84770 (435) 688-STAR (7827)
Dixie Dr. & Gubler Ln. 1335 S. Dixie Dr. St. George, UT 84770 (435) 674-STAR (7827)
Washington, UT
Telegraph Rd. & 500 W. 385 W. Telegraph Rd. Washington, UT 84780 (435) 986-0820
6 BEST HOUSEPLANTS FOR BEGINNERS
No green thumb required!
So, you think you can’t keep plants alive? At Star Nursery, we’ve heard it all:
“I wish I had the time to nurture houseplants, but my schedule is too packed,” or “I have a brown thumb and kill everything” or even, “Living in the desert makes it feel impossible to keep any plants alive.”
We sympathize with your excuseswe get it, it’s HARD... but it’s time we debunk the difficulties around growing houseplants in desert homes once and for all!
The fact is, your gardening capabilities aren’t the main issue here. Your choice of plant is what’s holding you back. That’s why we’ve put together our 6 favorite house plants for beginners!
Before you pick out your plants, be sure to grab a few houseplant essentials. You’ll want to pick out a moisture meter so that you always know when to water your plants. Remember, overwatering can kill houseplants just as fast as underwatering! If you don’t have one, check the soil manually by sticking your finger about an inch deep to feel for dryness.
When picking out pottery for your plant, make sure you choose a size that’s near the same size as the nursery pot the plant came in. Transplanting plants from one container to another can stress a plant so be sure to give the plant Dr. Q’s Plant Tonic for a seamless transition into their new home. Upgrade your
plant to a slightly larger container only when it shows significant root growth. Choosing the right medium for your plant is also important. Most plants will prefer well draining soil so make sure to grab the potting mix that suits your plant best. Adding materials like perlite, pumice, or sand to the soil mix can improve aeration and drainage to any pre-existing potting mix you may have.
Houseplants not only enhance décor but also purify the air, boost humidity, and create a calming atmosphere that reduces stress and improves focus, making them perfect for homes and offices. Find your next houseplant today at Star Nursery - your garden’s partner for every bloomin’ thing!
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Known as one of the hardiest houseplants, snake plants are perfect for desert homes. They tolerate a range of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light, and thrive on neglect. Their thick, upright leaves retain moisture, making them drought-resistant. Snake plants also help improve indoor air quality, making them a healthy choice for your home.
Care Tips:
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Another low-maintenance plant, the ZZ plant, is favored for its waxy, deep green leaves and its polished look. It’s highly adaptable and can tolerate low light, though it flourishes in bright, indirect light.
Care Tips:
Water only when the soil is dry. Its underground rhizomes store water, so overwatering is an easy way to put this plant’s health in decline.
1 3 5 2 4 6
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
For those who want a touch of lush greenery in shadier spots, pothos is a wonderful choice. Its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves add a soft, tropical vibe to any space.
Care Tips:
Although it tolerates low light, pothos thrives in bright, indirect light. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and it will reward you with vigorous growth.
Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
For a dramatic touch, consider the rubber plant. Its large, glossy leaves make a bold statement, and it’s surprisingly easy to care for.
Care Tips:
Place in bright, indirect light and water when the soil starts to dry. It prefers slightly higher humidity, so occasional misting can be beneficial.
Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
Don’t let the name fool you—the ponytail palm isn’t a true palm but rather a succulent. Its bulbous trunk stores water, and its long, flowing leaves make it a striking addition to any room.
Care Tips:
Place in bright, indirect light and water sparingly. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who travels frequently or forgets to water.
Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
The heartleaf philodendron is a versatile and forgiving houseplant that thrives in a variety of indoor conditions. Its cascading vines and heart-shaped green leaves add life to any space.
Care Tips:
It can tolerate low light but grows best in bright, indirect light. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. This plant is an excellent choice for hanging baskets or shelves.
MARCH Winter Gardener’s Calendar & Holidays
National
• Celery Month
• The application of a pre-emergent, such as Bonide Crabgrass & Weed Preventer, effectively controls weeds in flower beds, planters, and rock landscapes, ensuring the safety of established flowers and plants. Alternatively, consider using Hi-Yield Turf & Ornamental Weed & Grass Stopper, which contains dimension, on your lawn to prevent weed seeds from germinating. For detailed information on weed identification and control, refer to Star Note #625
• If weeds are already present, use a contact herbicide like Bonide KleenUp Weed & Grass Killer, to eliminate them before further spread.
• For those planning to start their spring planting of herbs and vegetables, soil preparation is crucial. Check out Star Note #215 - Growing Herbs in the Desert and #205 - Warm Weather Vegetable Gardening – Garden to Table for a selection of popular varieties successfully grown here.
Visit any Star Nursery location for the best selection before quantities run out.
• Now is the ideal time to start planting tomatoes. An early start ensures a bountiful crop, considering that many varieties may not set fruit in the summer heat. Choose from a variety of types such as Early Girl, Patio, Cherry, Roma, Celebrity, or Better Boy for a continuous supply with varying harvest dates.
• Following the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s spring watering guidelines, you can water three days a week starting March 1st. Find your designated watering day at www.SNWA.com. The recommended time for watering is in the early morning, approximately an hour before sunrise, as night watering can contribute to fungal issues.
• The last spring frost date for southern Nevada is March 19th. After this date, it’s safe to plant cactus, citrus, succulents, and tropicals outdoors. This is also the opportune time to prune these varieties, especially if they have experienced cold or frost damage.
• To ensure healthy fruit development, particularly for apples, apricots, peaches, and pears, don’t forget to thin your fruit trees. Thinning to one fruit every 4-6 inches allows adequate space for optimal growth and helps prevent limb breakage due to heavy fruit loads.”
• 1st FREE Tomato Day at Star Nursery
• 3rd National Peach Blossom Day
• 7th National Plant Power Day
• 11th Johnny Appleseed Day
• 12th Plant a Flower Day
• 18th National Agriculture Day
• 18th–24th National Agriculture Week
• 20th Spring Equinox
• 21st World Planting Day
National Flower Day
• 22nd National Daffodil Day
• 26th National Spinach Day
National Little Red Wagon Day
APRIL
• Consider planting native “Host Plants” for pollinators. For example, Globe mallow, Penstemons, which come in many different colors, and don’t forget Milkweed to support the Monarch population.
• Newly planted trees in the lawn need additional deep-water irrigation. The sprinkler system for the lawn will not give the tree deep enough watering. Consider trenching and installing emitters around the tree’s dripline, connected to the zone that waters the rest of your trees and shrubs.
• Consider purchasing beneficial insects to combat those persistent harmful insects like aphids and spider mites. Visit your local Star Nursery location for Ladybugs and Praying Mantises. Earthworms are also available; they are an invaluable addition to both flower and vegetable garden soils!
• Skeletonizer Caterpillars love to chew on leaves of grapes, vegetables, Texas Mountain Laurels, and even Tecoma Bell varieties. They will strip all the green from the leaves and even weaken or kill your vines and shrubs. Treat with BT Worm Killer.
• Paint exposed tree trunks with watered-down tree paint like Go Natural Tree Trunk Paint or consider wrapping trunks with DeWitt Tree Wrap, a breathable fabric. These will protect trees from sunburn, reduce stress, and reduce the chance of borer infestation.
• The presence of ants running up and down plants and trees is something to take note of. Not only do the ants feed on the honeydew excreted by aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies, but they also prevent the predators of these damaging leaf-sucking insects from controlling the population. Now is a great time to use an ant bait like AMDRO Ant Block before ants become a problem.
• 4th International Carrot Day
• 5th FREE Lady Bug Day at Star Nursery
• 6th California Poppy Day
• 13th International Plant Appreciation Day
• 14th National Pecan Day
National Gardening Day
• 19th National Garlic Day
• 22nd Earth Day
• 25th Arbor Day
• 29th Peace Rose Day
National
• Lawn & Garden Month
• Earth Month
• Keep America Beautiful Month
• Pecan Month
• Fresh Celery Month
National
• Wildflower Month
• Miniature Garden Month
• Asparagus Month
• Strawberry Month
• Gifts From The Garden Month
MAY
• May is the month your palm trees will start their growing season. Fertilize with Dr. Q’s Palm Food, which is specifically formulated to fulfill the special requirements of palms and keep them growing, preventing common nutrient deficiencies.
• Prepare your lawn for summer and use Dr. Q’s Royal Flush 16-4-8. This superb lawn fertilizer lasts up to 12 weeks and conditions your soil while feeding the turf.
• White grub and sod webworm larvae may show up in some lawns this month. Although difficult to control, treating with BioAdvanced Complete Insect Killer for Soil & Turf late in the afternoon, when the larvae are near the surface feeding, will increase success.
• Southern Nevada Water Authority’s summer watering guidelines allow for 6 days a week starting May 1st. However, established trees and shrubs prefer deep, infrequent irrigation, allowing at least a day, if not more, between watering. For more information, check our Star Note #900A - How Much Should You Water Your Trees and Shrubs, and for lawns, see Star Note #900B - How Much Should You Water Your Lawn. You can find your assigned watering days at SNWA.com.
• 1st International Sunflower
Guerrilla Gardening Day
• 3rd National Garden Meditation Day
National Herb Day
World Naked Gardening Day
• 4th–10th National Herb Week
National Wildflower Week
• 10th World Migratory Bird Day
• 11th Mother’s Day
Green Pages, Spring, 2025
• 16th National Love a Tree Day
• 19th Plant Something Day
• 20th World Bee Day
National Pick Strawberries Day
• 19th–25th National Vegetarian Week
• 22nd–29th National African Violet Week
• 29th National Composting Day
• 30th National Water a Flower Day
WATER SMART CLASSES FREE!
Get the help you need to make your landscape desert-friendly, and your irrigation system and home more water-efficient! These FREE CLASSES are taught by experts from the Southern Nevada Water Authority in partnership with the Springs Preserve.
CLASSES IN ENGLISH CLASES EN ESPAÑOL
BASICS OF PERFORMING A HOME WATER AUDIT
BASICS OF A WATER SMART LANDSCAPE DRIP IRRIGATION
Find class dates & times SCAN TO REGISTER
BASES PARA CREAR UN HUERTO Y UN JARDÍN EFICIENTE
BASES PARA INSTALAR UN SISTEMA DE RIEGO POR GOTEO
AUDITORÍA DE AGUA EN EL HOGAR
Classes are offered both in person and online. In-person classes are held at the Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd.
For additional landscaping resources, visit snwa.com.
SPICE UP YOUR GARDEN TODAY!
A colorful guide to peppers
Peppers are a delicious and diverse crop, celebrated around the globe for their flavors, colors, and culinary versatility. From the sweet, crisp bell peppers of Europe to the fiery habaneros of the Americas, peppers have become a staple ingredient in nearly every type of dish. Peppers are not only beautiful with their bright hues of red, yellow, orange, and green, but they’re also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. What makes them even more remarkable is their adaptability. As members of the nightshade family (Solanaceae), peppers thrive in a variety of climates, despite originating in different ecosystems. Fortunately for us, they’re espe-
cially well-suited to the warm, sunny conditions of the Desert Southwest. Picture yourself digging your hands into our desert soils, planting fiery jalapeños from Mexico alongside the exotic ghost peppers of India and the sweet, fragrant pimientos of Spain. Each seed sown is a connection to global traditions, and a test of the limitations imposed by our harsh climate. With proper care and the right varieties, they can flourish in your garden. Peppers love the heat and thrive in well-drained soils, making them perfectly suited to our region’s arid conditions. Varieties like the Anaheim jalapeño and sweet options like the banana pepper are
naturally heat-tolerant and can handle the intense sun. Growing peppers is a great and beginner-friendly way to start your gardening journey. So why not give it a try? Visit Star Nursery today to explore our massive selection of peppers from around the world— whether you’re craving the sweet, the smoky, or lip-numbing spicy, we’ve got the perfect pepper for you!
Scoville Heat Units (SHU):
Measure the spiciness of a pepper based on its capsaicin content. The SHU is determined by diluting the capsaicin with sugar water until the heat is no longer detectable. The higher the SHU, the hotter the pepper!
Sweet and Mild Peppers (0–1,000
A small, sweet, and crunchy red pepper with no heat, perfect for snacking or stuffing; thrives in full sun with rich soil and consistent watering, growing 18–24 inches tall and 12–16 inches wide.
A round, juicy, and sweet pepper often used for pickling or stuffing; grows best in warm, sunny conditions with well-draining soil, reaching 18–24 inches tall and 12–16 inches wide.
A colorful blend of sweet, zero-heat peppers ideal for salads, snacking, or stir-fries; grows best in loamy soil with regular watering and full sun, reaching 18–24 inches tall and 12–16 inches wide.
A long, banana-shaped pepper with mild sweetness, commonly used for pickling and grilling; thrives in full sun with fertile soil and regular watering, growing 18–24 inches tall and 18–20 inches wide.
Mild to Moderate Heat Peppers
A mild and versatile pepper used for roasting, grilling, or stuffing; thrives in full sun with well-drained soil, growing 24–36 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
A dark green, heart-shaped pepper often roasted or dried for sauces; grows best in fertile soil with full sun and consistent watering, reaching 24–36 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
A thick-walled, medium-hot pepper perfect for salsas, poppers, and pickling; requires full sun, rich soil, and regular watering, reaching 24–36 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
Fun Fact: Jalapeños were the first peppers in space! They made the flight aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1982.
Petite, sweet bell peppers in red, yellow, and orange, great for fresh eating or appetizers; requires full sun, fertile soil, and consistent watering, growing 12–18 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
A thin-walled, mildly spicy pepper that blisters beautifully when grilled or fried; prefers full sun and well-drained soil, reaching 18–24 inches tall and 12–16 inches wide.
Small, tangy, yellow peppers with moderate heat, great for pickling and garnishing; thrives in full sun with fertile soil and consistent watering, growing 18–24 inches tall and 12–16 inches wide.
Moderate to Hot Peppers
(15,000–100,000 SHU)
(10,000–23,000 SHU)
A slim, hot pepper with a crisp bite, commonly used in salsas and sauces; thrives in full sun with consistent watering, growing 24–36 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
(50,000–100,000 SHU)
(30,000–50,000 SHU)
A long, fiery-hot pepper often dried and ground into a spicy powder; needs full sun, fertile soil, and regular watering, growing 24–36 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
A tiny, potent chili that packs serious heat for stir-fries and spicy sauces; thrives in warm, sunny spots with fertile soil, growing 12–18 inches tall and 12–16 inches wide.
Fun Fact: Thai peppers, are also known as “Birds Eye Peppers” due to the resemblance of a birds eye. Birds happily eat Thai peppers as they are not sensitive to capsaicin like mammals are!
Super Hot Peppers (100,000
+ SHU)
(100,000–350,000 SHU)
A lantern-shaped pepper with fruity heat, commonly used in hot sauces and salsas; requires a warm climate, full sun, and consistent watering, reaching 24–36 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
A slightly sweeter, tropical-flavored pepper popular in Caribbean cuisine; prefers warm, sunny climates with well-drained soil, growing 24–36 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
Carolina Reaper
(30,000–50,000 SHU)
Small, thin, and intensely hot peppers famous for their use in hot sauces; grows best in full sun with warm temperatures and fertile soil, reaching 24–48 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
Ghost (Bhut Jolokia)
(100,000–350,000 SHU) (1,000,000+ SHU)
One of the world’s hottest peppers, delivering extreme heat with a touch of sweetness; thrives in hot, humid conditions with full sun and staking for support, reaching 24–36 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
A dangerously hot pepper with a fruity taste and a scorpion-like tail; grows best in warm climates with full sun and fertile soil, reaching 24–36 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
The world’s hottest pepper, known for its intense heat and fruity undertones; requires full sun, fertile soil, and staking, growing 24–36 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide.
Serrano
Thai Cayenne Tabasco
Habanero
Trinidad Scorpion
Scotch Bonnet
DR. Q’S SEASONAL RECIPE
Star stuffed bell peppers
Ingredients:
Ǻ 6 Bell Peppers (any color)
Ǻ 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
Ǻ 3/4 lb. Ground Beef
Ǻ 1/2 lb. Ground Italian Sausage
Ǻ 1 Yellow Onion (diced)
Ǻ 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
Ǻ 1 tsp. Italian Seasoning
Ǻ Salt & Pepper
Ǻ 2 tbsp. Tomato Paste
Ǻ 14.5 oz. Diced Tomatoes (undrained)
Ǻ 1 1/2 cup Marinara Sauce
Ǻ 1/2 cup Chicken Broth
Ǻ 1 tsp. Worcestershire Sauce
Ǻ 1.5 cup Cooked Rice
Ǻ 1 1/2 cup Shredded Cheddar
1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Add 1 cup water to a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Cut the tops of each pepper to remove the middle including seeds.
2) Place the peppers top-side-down in the casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove water from the casserole dish once finished and set the peppers aside.
3) While the peppers are in the oven, make the filling.
4) Start with the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and sausage. Season it with Italian seasoning, garlic, salt and pepper. Add the onions and cook for 5 more minutes, or until the meat is brown and cooked through. Drain grease. Reduce heat to low.
5) Add the tomato paste and stir. Then stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it bubble gently and reduce/concentrate for 15 minutes or until little excess liquid remains. Finally, mix in the already cooked rice. Remove from heat.
6) Fill each pepper with filling and place in the casserole dish. Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Remove cover and top with cheese. Bake for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
3 GROUNDBREAKING LAWN ALTERNATIVES
Let’s face it: traditional lawns in the Mojave Desert aren’t practical. With water scarcity being a real issue, it’s time to focus on smarter, more sustainable approaches to our outdoor spaces. Lately, instead of fussing over grass that demands a ton of TLC, eco-conscious homeowners are trying trendy new lawn alternatives!
Valley Sod Farms: Growing Alternatives
Valley Sod Farms has been on a mission for over 20 years to revolutionize desert landscaping, and they’re doing it with style! By offering drought tolerant groundcovers like Kurapia, Emerald Elegance Dichondra, and Micro Clover, they’re empowering homeowners to embrace water-smart solutions.
Swapping out that thirsty lawn for some low-maintenance ground covers is the hottest landscaping movement in desert climates and Valley Sod Farms is leading the way in our Las Vegas community. Curious about how you can join the movement? Let’s dive into our top three alternatives that are perfect for desert backyards!
Kurapia: Resilience Meets Elegance
Kurapia is a resilient groundcover that thrives in arid conditions and displays a vibrant green hue almost all year round. Best part? It doesn’t guzzle water like typical lawns.
It’s benefits don’t stop there; it grows little white blooms that will attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your landscape. By choosing Kurapia, you’re not just landscaping—you’re creating a pollinator safe-haven that traditional lawns lack! One thing to keep in mind, because Kurapia has a leaf instead of grass-like blades, broadleaf herbicides cannot be used. On the other hand, this groundcover can be mowed for a more “grass-like” appearance. Hand-weeding may be necessary while establishing the groundcover but as it grows, its thick mat-like root will prevent the invasion of weeds.
Emerald Elegance Dichondra:
If you’re looking for a soft , lush lawn without the hassle, Emerald Elegance Dichondra is the groundcover for you. Its kidney-shaped leaves form a luxurious, velvety carpet. This lawn alternative flourishes in full sun and partial shade while requiring 40-50% less water than grass once established. As an added bonus, it is pest-resistant and doesn’t require much mowing! Like Kurapia, this ground cover also blooms white flowers that attract pollinators. It tolerates light to moderate foot traffic and even in 120 degree heat, Dichondra stays lush and green.
Micro Clover: Small Changes, Big Impact
While most lawn and lawn alternatives have a planting season, Micro Clover stands out. It spreads well in both heat and cold and does so all year long. With its fine texture and vibrant appearance, it brings that classic lawn feel while naturally enriching the soil with nitrogen. Due to it producing its own nitrogen, Micro-Clover only benefits from fertilization for micronutrients every 3-5 years. Similar to Kurapia, this alternative can achieve a lawn-like appearance when regularly mowed. The benefits don’t end there!
Micro Clover is immune to pet urine and foot traffic. Just like Dichondra, it also produces small white flowers making it a great choice for pollinator gardens. So, if you’re looking to make small changes that lead to big impacts, this is your go-to!
Save Water, Embrace Innovation
Switching to these eco-friendly groundcovers isn’t just a personal choice— it’s a step toward a greener community. Programs like the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s (SNWA) Water Smart Landscapes rebate encourage homeowners to ditch thirsty grass in favor of water-efficient options. With Kurapia, Dichondra, or Micro Clover, you can create a breathtaking landscape that aligns with rebate guidelines, all while saving water.
Not in Southern Nevada? No worries! Many local water authorities across the nation are offering incentives for water-smart landscaping. This isn’t a micro-trend; it’s a movement toward sustainable landscaping!
Your Yard, Your Statement
Making the switch to drought tolerant lawn alternatives is more than just a landscaping decision—it’s a step towards environmental responsibility. This isn’t just about following trends; it’s about committing to a lifestyle that respects our planet and pollinators while setting a new standard for what’s possible in the desert. With Valley Sod Farms, Star Nursery, and programs like SNWA’s rebate, the path to a greener, smarter future is clearer than ever.
Are you ready to join the movement? Find more information at valleysod.com!
Dichondra
Kurapia Kurapia Dichondra
Praying Mantis
These beautiful insects have a voracious appetite. Each hatching habitat contains 2 egg pods, each containing 50-200 babies!
Red Wigglers consume organic material and burrow 24 hours a day, while excreting a natural soil nutrient called “Worm Castings”.
STORE SPOTLIGHT
Since 1991, Star Nursery’s Eastern location has been a cornerstone of the Las Vegas and Henderson communities, valued not just for its plants but for its people. This season, we’re putting the spotlight on the Eastern team, their stories, and what makes this location truly special.
Over the years, this store has been shaped by some of the most skilled nurserymen in the valley. Names like Bill Edwards, who shared his expertise
in the 1990s, and Dave Bashaw, whose dedication was a hallmark until just a few years ago, have become part of its legacy. Then there’s Jim Ed Johnson, the original Dr. Q, who still returns every spring and fall to lend a hand during the busiest seasons. Another star employee is Neil Stinson, who currently works inside as a resident expert of all things gardening. If you’ve ever needed help inside of the Eastern location, the chances are, Neil was the
one who guided you with his expert knowledge and friendly demeanor! These individuals helped build the store’s reputation for knowledge and excellence.
The Eastern location is also known for nurturing growth in its team. Many employees started in entry-level roles before advancing through the Nevada Nursery Professionals program, a training initiative by the UNR Cooperative Extension. This program
equips staff with expert knowledge of desert gardening, ensuring they can serve customers with confidence.
The store’s sense of community extends far beyond its walls. Partnerships with local contractors have fostered a culture of camaraderie, where chilly mornings often mean shared coffee, donuts, or even surprise lunches. Since opening in 1991, when it was surrounded by little more than a windy rural road, the store has grown along-
Eastern Location, Las Vegas, NV
side the community, serving generations of families who return year after year.
Guided by the motto “Work Happy,” the team takes pride in working outdoors among lush greenery in the heart of the desert. Standout team members, like Reggie Morlen of Dr. Q’s House Call team, go above and beyond by offering in-store advice and home visits to help customers with their gardening needs.
The appreciation the team receives from customers is what drives their passion. From heartfelt thank-yous to thoughtful gestures, the community’s gratitude fuels their dedication. Star Nursery’s Eastern location is more than just a garden center—it’s a place where relationships grow, expertise thrives, and the joy of gardening is shared with everyone who walks through its doors.
SOUTHERN NEVADA IRRIGATION ASSOCIATION
Advancing smart irrigation for a sustainable
In the heart of the arid Southwest, water is more than a resource—it’s a lifeline. As Southern Nevada continues to grow, the demand for efficient water management has never been greater. The Southern Nevada Irrigation Association (SNVIA) is at the forefront of addressing this challenge, championing smart irrigation practices and innovative solutions to ensure a sustainable future for our desert community.
Who is SNVIA?
Founded in 2019, SNVIA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing water-efficient irrigation in Southern Nevada’s landscapes. Their diverse membership includes landscape designers, contractors, suppliers, manufacturers, and irrigation specialists—all united by a shared mission: to support sustainable water use that respects our desert environment and enriches the lives of local residents.
SNVIA’s Mission and Initiatives
SNVIA’s work is rooted in three pillars: education, advocacy, and collaboration. Through these efforts, they empower individuals, businesses, and professionals to adopt smarter water-use practices, helping to preserve our community’s most valuable resource.
future
Education and Training
Education is at the core of their mission. They provide workshops, handson training, and seminars that explore cutting-edge irrigation technologies, water-saving techniques, and sustainable landscape management. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a homeowner looking to make your yard more eco-friendly, their programs are designed to meet you where you are and help you grow your knowledge.
Community Outreach and Events
In the spirit of community, the SNVIA believes in bringing people together to make a difference. They sponsor the Desert Green Conference & Trade Show each fall and the SNVIA Appreciation Day in December celebrates the irrigation community while fostering connections and sharing knowledge. These annual events, along with smaller workshops and outreach programs throughout the year, educate the public and promote water conservation in fun and engaging ways.
Industry Partnerships
Collaboration is essential for the large-scale impact water conversation needs to have. SNVIA partners with water agencies, municipalities, and industry leaders to advance innovative, water-saving solutions. Together, they work on transformative projects that benefit not just our landscapes, but the environment and future generations.
Why SNVIA Matters
Southern Nevada faces unique challenges, from prolonged drought to the impacts of climate change. SNVIA is committed to staying ahead of these challenges by advocating for smart irrigation practices that balance the needs of people and nature. By equipping professionals and residents with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions, they’re building a foundation for a water-efficient future.
Join SNVIA in Shaping the Future
Whether you’re a landscape professional, an irrigation supplier, or simply someone passionate about conservation, there’s a place for you at SNVIA. Members enjoy access to exclusive educational resources, industry insights, and networking opportunities that help them grow both personally and professionally.
Ready to make a difference? Visit snvia.org, or scan the QR code to learn more about their initiatives, events, and membership opportunities.
Together, we can transform landscapes, conserve water, and create a thriving future for Southern Nevada. Join SNVIA today and be part of the change!
