4/18/26 - OUTDOOR LIVING HOUR! New Plants For The Summer!

In this episode of Rosie on the House, host Jay Harper joins Rosie to discuss new plants for summer, focusing on heat-tolerant annuals, trees, and sustainable landscaping strategies. The conversation begins with a heartfelt story about propagating a 30-year-old Easter lily cactus, followed by practical advice on planting and caring for succulents, flowering annuals like vinca, moss rose, and celosia, and tough perennials such as ornamental sweet potato vine and lantana. Jay emphasizes the importance of matching plant microclimates and considering native species like mesquite, Palo Verde, and Texas ebony for xeriscaping. The episode also dives into lawn transitions, advocating for eliminating summer lawns in favor of artificial turf or drought-resistant alternatives, especially in water-scarce regions like Arizona. Jay shares personal insights on citrus fertilization, lawn care, and the environmental impact of turf, concluding with a call to action to conserve water through smarter landscaping choices. The episode blends horticultural expertise with ecological awareness and personal anecdotes. Key takeaways include: 1) Propagate cacti by cutting, drying, and replanting with the original sun-facing orientation; 2) Use heat-tolerant, low-water plants like lantana, vinca, and ornamental sweet potato vine for summer color; 3) Transition from summer lawns to artificial turf or xeriscaping to save water; 4) Fertilize citrus lightly in mid-April if missed earlier dates, using a nitrogen-rich formula; 5) Match plant placement to mature size and sun exposure; 6) Prioritize native, drought-resistant trees like mesquite and ironwood for long-term sustainability; 7) Use fertilizer math to adjust application rates based on nutrient percentage; 8) Support local rebates for water-wise landscaping. The tone is encouraging, practical, and environmentally conscious, with a strong emphasis on responsible gardening in arid climates.