Hey fellow gardeners! I'm reaching out to gather some insights on gardening in the High Desert, specifically around Albuquerque (Zone 7B). The growing conditions here are a big change from what I experienced in Houston, where everything thrived with ample water. One question I have is about how many hours of sunlight a "full sun" plant truly requires at a higher elevation like mine (5,500ft). A master gardener I spoke with suggested that we might need around two hours less sun than what's typically recommended. For example, if a tomato plant at sea level needs 8-10 hours, he proposed that 6 hours might suffice here. Has anyone else noticed this pattern? Also, I'd love to hear any other high desert gardening tips or wisdom you all might have! I currently rely on the ABQ Master Gardeners book, but I'm eager to expand my knowledge for both my benefit and anyone else gardening in similar conditions.
2 Answers
Hey there! As a fellow high desert enthusiast, I've got a few tips to share! First off, I totally agree with you about sun exposure—my experience has been similar. Plants here tend to need less direct sunlight since the intensity is higher. That whole 1-2 hours less sunlight thing? Totally valid! I’ve also found that using mulch and drip irrigation helps immensely in retaining moisture and keeping those roots healthy. Don’t underestimate those methods!
I'm right there with you, utilizing a variety of methods to keep my garden thriving. A good mulch can really protect your plants from the harsh sun and help retain that precious moisture. Also, I think it’s great you're considering how to stagger your seedlings. Keeping your plants warm on those chilly nights is crucial for a robust yield, definitely found that out the hard way. Best of luck to you this season!
Thanks for the encouragement! It’s good to know I’m on the right track with those methods. Hoping for a fruitful summer!
Do you ever adjust your drip irrigation system to account for extra watering? I set mine up last year, but honestly, I'm unsure how much it's actually delivering. So, I find myself hand watering too, which I enjoy!