Nevada Desert Bioscape | Extension | University of Nevada, Reno

Extension’s Desert Bioscape program takes a holistic approach to conserving natural resources in an urban setting. This program targets adult learners in the green industry of southern Nevada. The program uses the successful Correctional Horticultural program as a model for development. Implementation of the curriculum meets the needs of people already working in the industry. In addition to these goals, training will be translated into money savings for the companies and municipalities because correct practices are being implemented. Students that are planning to or are now taking other classes to improve their job skills are being surveyed.

Desert Bioscape classes developed to this point include:

An Introduction to Basic Principles of Desert Bioscape
An Introduction to Desert Living
Scouting the Landscape, A Practical Approach to Integrated Pest Management
Fertilizers and Soil Fertility, A Natural Approach
Palms, A Natural Choice for Water-efficient Landscapes in Southern Nevada
Wastewater Harvest and Treatment Utilizing Small Constructed Wetlands
Water Efficient Plants for Southern Nevada

News Articles, Fact Sheets, Reports...
A Guide to Desert Bioscape This publication will help the reader understand how to garden more efficiently in the Mojave Desert and in other dry areas. Beautiful yards and landscapes can be created while applying environmentally friendly principles. Putting these principles into use will help conserve water in one of the driest spots on earth. Robinson, M.L., Johnson, W.S., Post, R.L., and Carlos, W.J. 2004, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, SP-04-12
Allergenic Plants in Southern Nevada (Landscaping for an allergy free yard) Many people who move to the Southern Nevada area either come with allergies or develop them after moving here. This publication helps people understand what plants can be allergenic and how to deal with them in the yard or community. The major portion of the publication is a list of common plants found in landscapes. Robinson, M. L. 2000, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno SP-00-28
Becoming a Desert Gardener Becoming a Desert Gardener is a comprehensive introduction to gardening in the desert southwest. It covers topics such as soils, fruit & vegetable selection and growing, as well as scheduling garden planting and proper fertilization. O'Callaghan, A., and Roberts, A. 2001, Extension University of Nevada Reno, SP-01-15
Common Tomato Disorders Under Desert Conditions Tomatoes are one of the most popular plants to grow in vegetable gardens and containers in home gardens. Trying to grow them in the desert climate can be problematic. This fact sheet explores ways to help the home gardener diagnose and correct these disorders. Mills, L., and Johnson, W. 1988, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-88-60
Composting Yard and Vegetable Wastes Composting is an effective way to take organic materials from landfills and use them to improve soil health. This fact sheet covers the reasons for composting and the basics of getting compost started. Donaldson, S., and Hefner, Melody 2009, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-09-16
Constructed Wetlands for Water Filtration: An Introduction to Constructed Wetlands This publication addresses how to recycle water so it may be used more than once and looks at how both black and gray water can be recycled by applying the same principles that nature uses to clean water. Combination of living plants, good aeration and microorganisms can provide a way to reuse both black and gray water Robinson, M.L., Franzen, H., Williams, F., and Fulton, E. 2008, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-08-45
Container Gardening This fact sheet helps the reader choose the best type of container, plant material and potting soil for container gardening. It also covers the care of plants grown in containers. Information is basic and geared toward the new gardener. Roberts, A. 2000, Extension University of Nevada Reno, FS-00-42
Creating a Community Garden People who are concerned about food accessibility, variety and safety often consider growing their own vegetables and fruits. Community gardens can provide spaces for growing food and for contact with others living nearby. This publication provides guidance for creating and maintaining community gardens. O'Callaghan, A. M., Fagin, E., and Robinson, M. L. 2013, Extension University of Nevada Reno, SP-13-07
Creating an Organic Garden in Southern Nevada The idea of an organic garden can be an attractive idea, yet an intimidating one. This fact sheet guides people in the creation of an organic garden – soils, fertilizers, plant selection, cultural practices, as well as dealing with weed, insect and disease pests. O'Callaghan, A., and McKie, P. 2004, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-04-72
Date Palm Gardening Guide for Southern Nevada This publication is a companion to the publication, in Southern Nevada publication. It is a month by month guide to fertilization, pruning, irrigation and other cultural practices for the date palm. Robinson, M. L. 2002, Extension University of Nevada Reno, FS-02-99
Fall Gardening Checklist for Southern Nevada This publication will help both the novice and the experienced gardener produce many cool season vegetables in their own yards. Fall is one of the best vegetable gardening times of the year in Southern Nevada. This creates the perfect time to grow many different vegetables such as green, root, bulb and cole crops. Mills, L. and Johnson, W. 1987, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno FS-87-34
Field Bindweed - An Attractive Nuisance, and Worse A pretty plant may still be a weed, and field bindweed is a clear example. This attractive relation of morning glory can invade a landscape, interfering with the growth of desired plants both above and below ground. This fact sheet gives information on avoiding and treating field bindweed. O'Callaghan, A. and Robinson, M. L. 2020, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-20-33
Fifty Palms That Are Grown or Should Be Tried in Southern Nevada Palm trees are an important part of the urban southwest landscape, especially in southern Nevada. Unfortunately, the palm tree landscape palette is limited to under 10 different types of commonly used palms. This publication explores 50 palms that are grown or should be grown in southern Nevada or at least tried. M. L. Robinson 2010, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-10-64
Fire Blight Fire blight is a serious disease of many woody plants, caused by bacteria. It is one of the few that can affect trees and shrubs in the Mojave. Because it is bacterial, there are few commercial products available to control it. This publication guides residents in recognizing and dealing with fire blight. Skelly, J., and O'Callaghan, A. 2001, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-01-56
Green Fountain Grass Too often, attractive plants that we bring into the landscape from other regions turn out to be just too successful. They usually have no natural enemies in the new area, so they are able to thrive. They appear in wild areas and begin to out-compete native plants. One of these is green fountain grass. O'Callaghan, A. M., and Robinson, ML 2014, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-14-11
Groundcover Plants for Southern Nevada: Viable Alternatives to Turfgrass Groundcover plants are essential for keeping southern Nevada cool. While many desert residents are removing turfgrass to reduce water use, they should consider replacing it with the attractive, drought tolerant alternatives discussed in this publication. McGue, L., Robinson, M.L., O'Callaghan, A.O. and Leas, L. 2021, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-21-93
Growing Hops in Southern Nevada Hops are mainly used for brewing beer. The perceived bitterness in an Indian Pale Ale is derived from the hops themselves. Hops can also impart other flavors into beers, such as fruity, citrusy, or spicy notes. However, hops can serve other purposes as well. Wynne, T., O’Callaghan, A., Robinson, M. L. and Anderson, J. 2017, Extension \| University of Nevada, Reno, FS-17-05
Growing Pomegranates in Southern Nevada Pomegranates are a delicious fruit that grows well in the Mojave Desert. This publication gives needed guidance to people who wish to grow their own. Crites, A. M., Robison, G. D. and Mills, L. 2004, Extension University of Nevada, Reno FS-04-76
Growing Tomatoes in Southern Nevada Tomatoes are among the first vegetables people try to grow in home vegetable gardens. This is an introduction to growing tomatoes by seed or tomato starts bought at a nursery. It also covers the basic care of the tomato plant through the growing season. Roberts, A. 1999, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-99-11
Hardening Off Plants When plants are taken from a sheltered environment, like a home or a nursery, it is important that they be given the chance to become accustomed to the new one. This fact sheet gives gardeners the information they need to help plants successfully make the transition. Davis, R., and O'Callaghan, A. 2003, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-03-71
Hemp Basics: Anatomy of a Female Hemp Plant This publication provides readers with a thorough introduction to the anatomy of the female hemp plant, which is grown and harvested for many uses. The major parts of female hemp plant are discussed and displayed in a diagram. McGue, L., Morawska, M., Robinson, M.L. and O'Callaghan, A.O. 2021, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-21-97
Home Vegetable Production in Southern Nevada The Home Vegetable Production fact sheet was written to aid people who wish to grow their own food, but may be intimidated by Southern Nevada’s environment. It gives info on planting times, appropriate plants for this region, and ways to deal with problems gardeners may face. O'Callaghan, A. M. 2002, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-02-61
Horticultural Oils – What a Gardener Needs to Know Horticultural oils are pesticides that control insects, mites and some plant diseases. They are specifically designed to control plant pests. Commercially available horticultural oils are highly refined petroleum products that are filtered and distilled to remove compounds that can harm plants. Skelly, J. 2013, Extension \| University of Nevada, Reno, FS-13-20
Identification of Common Landscape Pests and Beneficial Organisms in Nevada Identifying insects and other arthropods, distinguishing those which cause problems from those which benefit our environment, is important for Master Gardeners, landscape professionals and residential customers. Publication assists gardeners in recognizing pests, the damage they cause and covers beneficial organisms. Johnson, W. S., Graham, J., and Strom, S. 2006, University of Nevada, Reno Extension SP-06-08
Introduction to Houseplants This short fact sheet gives the reader a better understanding of the basic requirements for success in growing houseplants it includes recommendations for indoor plants that perform well in the desert Southwest. Roberts, A., and Robinson, M. L. 1998, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-98-91
Irrigating (Watering) Your Vegetable Garden Irrigation is an essential practice for people growing vegetables in dry climates. This fact sheet explains uses of different types of irrigation and how to determine when it is necessary. Kratsch, H. 2010, Extension University of Nevada, Reno, FS-10-16
Lantana: An Attractive Shrub for Desert Landscapes Lantana is widely used in Southern Nevada landscaping. This fact sheet is for those who wish to use this plant, what varieties are available, and how to grow it successfully. It also gives information on what adult butterflies are attracted to this plant. O'Callaghan, A. 2007, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-07-40
Mulches for Nevada Landscapes All plants benefit from some kind of mulch. The type of plant determines what kind of mulch. This fact sheet explains what type to use and how to apply it. O'Callaghan, A. M. 2006, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-06-10
Non-Chemical Rodent Control Rodents are one of the main pests in urban areas, and can cause various problems in homes and businesses.This publication focuses on ways to manage rodent populations in the urban setting without using common chemical products. It explores aspects of exclusion, trapping and other environmentally friendly practices. Kerns, W. A., Robinson, M. L., and Ryan, M. 2002, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-02-10
Palm Problems That Aren't Many people are not familiar with growing palm trees and make observations that they think are abnormal in the palms growth and appearance. This publication addresses these symptoms, perceived problem and explanation of what is actually occurring in the Palm. It is also an easy guide for the professional and homeowner. Robinson, M. L., and O'Callaghan, A. 2010, Extension University of Nevada Reno, FS-10-72
Perennials in the Garden Perennials are plants that live longer than one growing season. Some are called short lived perennials and only survive a few years in the garden. Others are longer lived and last 5 to 10 years or longer.This fact sheet helps the gardener choose correct perennials for their yards, and also goes over cultural practices. Roberts, A., and Robinson, M. L. 1998, Extension University of Nevada Reno, FS-98-93
Pigeons Pigeons are one of the biggest avian pest problems in any urban setting, including the desert southwest. They can carry disease and insects that can affect humans that live nearby. The special publication helps better understand pigeons and alternative forms of management. Kerns, W. A., Robinson, M. L., and Ryan, M. 2002, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-02-11
Plant Annuals for Color In southern Nevada different annuals can be planted throughout the year to add color and variety to the landscape. There are fall, winter and spring annuals that thrive, and there are a few summer annuals that try to survive the summer heat. This fact sheet gives tips for using and growing annuals in home landscapes. Roberts, A., and Robinson, M. L. 1998, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-98-94
Pruning Cacti And Other Desert Succulents Pruning is an important part of any landscape maintenance program, including Southwestern desert landscapes. Pruning plants such as cacti, yuccas, agaves and other succulents is simple, but requires some basic plant knowledge. Robinson, M. L., O’Callaghan, A., and Anderson, J. 2016, Extension \| University of Nevada, Reno, SP-16-01
Pruning Desert Shrubs in Southern Nevada-Type Climates This publication is a guide to correct pruning of desert and desert adapted shrubs in the landscape. It details how to prune and why correct pruning is important to the health and beauty of the plants. Robinson, M.L., O'Callaghan, A., and Anderson, J. 2014, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-14-13
Pruning Palm Trees Palm trees are one of the most dominant plant materials found in the landscapes of southern Nevada and the desert Southwest. Unfortunately, most palm trees are incorrectly pruned by homeowners and commercial landscape maintenance companies. This publication explains why and how palm trees should be correctly pruned. Robinson, M. L. 2004, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-04-16
Raised Beds Can Make Gardening Easier How to use raised beds to make gardening easier! O'Callaghan, A. 2010, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-10-33
Recognizing Plant Nutrient Deficiencies There are 14 essential nutrients for plants, and when plants lacks one, it displays certain symptoms. This fact sheet explains how essential nutrients act in plants, and the symptoms of deficiencies. O'Callaghan, A. 2002, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-02-65
Research Orchard Fruit Evaluations & Recommendations for Southern Nevada - 2020 This publication is for both the homeowner and small commercial grower. The information contained has been gathered over years of research trials and observations of various types of fruit trees and vines growing at the University of Nevada, Reno Research Orchard. It is a handy guide for buying fruit trees and vines. Robinson, M.L., O'Callaghan, A., and Ruskamp, L. 2020, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, SP-20-07
Root-Knot Nematode Root knot nematode is a microscopic roundworm that attacks the roots of many garden plants, killing them. They are not easy to control, but this fact sheet gives guidance for the homeowner. O’Callaghan, A., Robinson, M.L., and Haas, S. 2020, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-20-24
Squash Bug Control in Home Gardens Squash bugs are a nightmare for anyone growing cucumbers, melons or squash. These insects are highly prolific and can destroy plants in that family. This publication tells home gardeners how to recognize these bugs and control them. Skelly, J. 2008, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-08-22
Starting A Worm Farm Worms are one of the most helpful insects in our gardens. They aerate the soil, add to the soil nutrition, and they can help recycle vegetable and other green waste as part of the composting process. This informative fact sheet will help the reader set up a worm farm in the backyard. Robinson, M. L., and Rider, M. 2000, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-00-26
The Date Palm in Southern Nevada The true date palm, Phoenix dactylifera grows in the desert region and is one of the most popular landscape plants for homes and is uniquely adapted for fruit production and ornamental purposes. This publication focuses on growing the date palm in home and commercial landscapes as well as how to produce edible dates. Robinson, M. L., Brown, B., and Williams, C. F. 2002, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-02-12
The Plant Death Spiral This short publication can be used as a handy guide to identify what caused your tree or shrub to die in your landscape. Johnson, W.S., Robinson, M.L., and Post, R.L. 1998, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-98-59
Turfgrasses for Urban Mojave Desert Landscapes Turfgrass sod in urban areas and communities can aid in the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions, mitigating the heat island effect, reducing energy consumption and contributing to efforts to reduce global warming trends. Morris, B., and Devitt, D. 2011, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-11-52
Using Pesticides Safely Whether one is a commercial pesticide applicator or homeowner safely spraying a few pests in their yard safety is a priority. This publication highlights safety practices that will help the pesticide applicator manage pest problems without contaminating the environment or causing harm to themselves, family or pets. Johnson, W.S., Post, R., Carlos, W., Post, E., and Robinson, M.L. 2000, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-00-19
Venomous Reptiles of Nevada (2007) Nevada is home to six venomous snakes and one venomous lizard. This publication is designed to be used in the classroom and in the field and explores each rattlesnake species and the one lizard species in depth. Included is information about habits, features, size and where in the state they live. Robinson, M.L., Conrad, P.M., and Ryan M.M. 2007, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, SP-07-07
Venomous Reptiles of Nevada (2020) Venomous Reptiles of Nevada - This is an updated and expanded publication based on previous extension publications. It is intended to be used as reference material in the classroom, as well as in the field. Photographs and other materials have been upgraded to make identification more precise. Jones, J., Robinson, M. L., McKeever, B., and O'Callaghan, A. 2020, University of Nevada, Reno Extension, SP-20-13
Water Conservation by Calibration of Irrigation Systems Water conservation is one of the most important aspects of gardening in the desert. This publication helps people determine how much water it they are using so that landscape plants can be watered efficiently. Implementing the best cultural practices helps gardeners save money and conserve water. Robinson, M. L. 2004, University of Nevada Reno, Extension SP-04-10

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M.L. Robinson

Program Leader & Contact