One of the most common questions from Garden guests is why some saguaros are covered with shade cloth. What about other plants?
While saguaros are native to the Sonoran Desert, the cactus receiving this temporary protection are all newly planted within the last year. During this establishment period, shade cloth helps reduce stress from extreme heat and intense sunlight while the plants develop strong root systems.
The Garden’s approach, however, extends beyond shade cloth. A key principle guiding horticulture decisions is planting the right plant in the right place. When introducing new plants or restoring areas of the landscape, teams look to nature for inspiration.
In the wild, young saguaros often rely on nurse plants—trees and shrubs that provide filtered sunlight and create cooler growing conditions. These companion plants help reduce soil temperatures and protect young cactus during their most vulnerable stages of growth.
The Garden is seeing similar success through its own planting practices. Saguaros planted beneath trees and shrubs with comparable water needs have generally established more quickly than those in more exposed areas. Some have even shown signs of growth within a single growing season.
Expanding the Garden’s tree canopy is another important part of this work. Additional trees not only enhance the visitor experience by creating more shaded spaces, but they also contribute to healthier growing conditions for surrounding plants.
Recent additions to the Garden include over the last year include:
- 46 new tree plantings
- 31 new saguaros
- 181 cactus collection plantings
- 51 agave plantings
Together, these efforts support a more resilient desert landscape while showcasing the remarkable adaptations of desert plants.
As summer continues, the Garden also looks ahead to the arrival of monsoon season. Rainfall can help lower temperatures and reduce sun intensity during an important period of plant growth, providing much-needed relief across the landscape.
Until then, Garden staff will continue caring for the collection through a combination of temporary shade structures, strategic planting and canopy expansion. By working with the natural relationships found in the desert, the Garden is helping ensure that newly planted specimens have the best possible chance to establish and thrive for years to come.
