Northern NM Basics

“Every calculation based on experience elsewhere fails in New Mexico.”
—Lew Wallace, New Mexico Territorial Governor, late 1870s – early 1880s

Gardeners new to Northern New Mexico can relate to that observation as they adapt to working with intense sun, alkaline soils, dry climate and high altitude. We’ve covered these topics in the “How To” section of this website, so newcomers can start by learning about working with local soils, mulching, watering wisely and fertilizing.

Our plant library is a good source of information on individual trees, shrubs, flowers, etc. but here is a special list that might be especially helpful. We call it “Plants That Grow Outdoors Elsewhere But Are Indoor Plants Here.”

Bougainvillea
Citrus
Ferns
Ficus
Fig Trees (edible)
Gardenias
Hibiscus
Hydrangea
Jasmine
Mandevilla Vine (Diplandenia)
Norfolk Island Pine
Palms
Thumbergia

If you’re new to gardening in general, click here for a pdf of Lynn Payne’s workshop hand-out Payne’s Nursery-Gardening for Beginners.

This section will be expanded over time, so check back now and then for more advice for new residents. Of course, in the mean time, bring your questions to the professionals at either of our Garden Centers.