00:00 Introduction to Water Smart Gardening
00:12 Meet Noelle Johnson: The AC Plant Lady
00:51 Water Conservation Techniques
02:19 Understanding Water Usage
05:09 Choosing Drought Tolerant Plants
14:56 Soil and Composting Tips
18:48 The Importance of Mulch
20:58 Creating Microclimates
23:19 Rethinking Garden Maintenance
28:14 Choosing Organic Fertilizers for Healthier Soil
28:54 Rethinking Lawns in Drier Climates
31:26 Efficient Lawn Maintenance Tips
36:09 Smart Irrigation Solutions
39:16 Water-Wise Container Gardening
44:03 Creating a Water-Efficient Vegetable Garden
48:46 Rainwater Harvesting Techniques
51:27 Exploring 'The Water Smart Garden' Book
54:05 Connecting with AZ Plant Lady
Today, we’re diving into the art of water-smart gardening with Noelle Johnson, the AZ Plant Lady. As a horticulturist, landscape designer, and desert gardening expert, Noelle has dedicated over 25 years to helping people create stunning, drought-tolerant landscapes that thrive in hot, arid climates.
From her humble beginnings as a novice desert gardener—where even roses proved a challenge—to becoming a sought-after consultant and educator, Noelle has transformed countless outdoor spaces with her practical and sustainable approach.
In this episode, Noelle shares invaluable tips for conserving water everywhere, including the use of drought-tolerant plants, smart irrigation systems, and techniques like passive rain harvesting.
She’ll also bust the myth that water-efficient gardens are dull, proving they can be as vibrant and beautiful as they are practical. Along the way, you’ll hear about her journey authoring her must-read second book, The Water Smart Garden.
Whether you're a beginner navigating desert gardening or an expert seeking innovative solutions, Noelle’s insights will inspire you to design, build, and grow a smarter garden that works. Get ready to rethink your outdoor space and embrace sustainable gardening!
Popular Podcasts
Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club
Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!