Sunset Zones versus USDA Zones - Gardeners in the western United States sometimes are confused when confronted with the 11 Hardiness Zones created by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), because USDA uses a 24-zone climate system created 40 years ago. However, the Sunset zone maps, which cover 13 Western states, are much more precise than the USDA's, since they factor in not only winter minimum temperatures, but also summer highs, lengths of growing seasons, humidity, and rainfall patterns to provide a more accurate picture of what will grow in our area.

Santa Cruz County's climate is classified as a High Desert area in Arizona. Based on Sunset Zones - our area is in ZONE 10 & based on USDA Zones - our area is in ZONE 8.

• Growing season: April to early November.
• Chilly & snow-dusted weather from late November through February.
• Lows from 31 degrees to 24 degrees F/-1 degree to -4 degrees C.
• Rain comes in summer as well as in the cooler seasons.

The key to successful gardening is to know what plants are best suited for your area and when and where to plant them. Knowing your climate zone is just the start, however the microclimates around your yard will play a large part in having beautiful plantings. Here are just a few things to consider:

• Sun Exposure, western and southern exposures are warmer and sunnier than eastern and northern exposures.
• Wind Damage, strong winds can dry out soils or knock over fragile growth. Elevation - cold air sweeps down hills and rests in low areas.
• Those frost pockets are okay for some plantings, yet can be deadly to others.
• Buildings & Fencing, determine wind patterns and play of shadows, these situations are ideal for some plants but can be harmful to others.

Xereicaping helps ensure successful growth and drastically cuts watering requirements through careful design and plant selection, soil improvement, mulching, irrigation, & maintenance. Think of xeriscaping as three separate layers of plantings. A plant’s watering needs will determine where the plant will go.

• First layer is to place showy and thirsty plants near the house so they create an oasis of green foliage and colorful blooms. Use drip system and misters for your plantings.
• Second layer is drought tolerant plantings that need infrequent watering and use a drip system to mitigate watering or no watering during rainy season.
• Third layer is to trim and leave natural vegetation that only needs rainfall to survive.

Whether you are making an existing yard more wildlife-friendly or planting a new garden from scratch, guarantee success by following these simple guidelines. The basic needs of all animals are the following: 

• Food
• Water
• Shelter