The weekend before we went to print with this issue, I was out walking my dog through our south Scottsdale neighborhood. Through the fog of my spring allergies, my nose was able to detect a scintilla of the heavenly scent of citrus blossoms just beginning to open. I have written about it on this page before, but this first intoxicating harbinger of spring always fills me with well-being, happiness and hope. On these pages, we honor the arrival of our most colorful, fragrant season, when our landscape puts on the best show of the year. If desert flora could tap dance and belt out a song that could be heard all the way up in the cheap seats, this is when it would happen. 

Speaking of the glory of the outdoors, the Phoenix Home & Garden 2022 Garden Tour happens Saturday, April 16. From natural desert to lush oases, from Gilbert to Paradise Valley, you will experience it all on this annual self-guided event. This year we’ve got not one, but two off-the-charts gardens exclusively for VIP ticket holders (who will also enjoy brunch at Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale). For everyone who attends, we have surprises at every stop along the way. It’s a beautiful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature—and a portion of proceeds benefits our good friends at Desert Botanical Garden. To purchase tickets, visit phgmag.com/gardentour. We look forward to reconnecting with you there.

In other news, we have just published a new book, a first for us and for the Valley. The Southwest Garden Book specifically covers all aspects of home gardening in Arizona. We combed our archives and collected the best must-have information for those new to our state, as well as more seasoned residents. From the basics to beyond, the pages were designed to instruct, inform, inspire and delight gardeners of all skill levels. Keep your eyes peeled for more information at phgmag.com. 

As spring makes its triumphant return to the Valley, we urge you to do whatever brings you joy in the fresh air: hike, walk, garden, even just sit beneath your favorite tree and read or take a nap. Breathe deeply and take in the beauty that we as Arizonans are so fortunate to be surrounded by every day.

John Roark
Editor in Chief