Create a worry-free desert oasis and keep scorpions away, too

by Kaley O'Kelley

azfamily.com

Posted on March 12, 2014 at 11:04 AM

Updated today at 11:20 AM

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- If watering your yard is killing your household budget, the idea of a desert landscape might be appealing to you.

Planting cacti might help because they don't need much water to survive. While they can be a nightmare for parents and pet owners, they don't have to be, according to master gardener Cesar Mazier.

"Opt for the Totem Pole Cactus," he said. "They're spineless and that means you can plant them around pools, really anywhere you might find kids playing!"

Mazier would know. He spent 16 years of his career at the Desert Botanical Garden.

He also says planting aloe will help to attract hummingbirds to your outdoor living space. Planting it near windows you enjoy sitting near is the key to creating a sanctuary you can enjoy inside and out.

That aloe should also attract lizards, which is a good thing if you're struggling to get rid of scorpions.

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Create a worry-free desert oasis and keep scorpions away, too