Fall 2025 Bloom By Chrissy Doern A s a proud native of the Arcadia area, Heather MacLean embodies a wonderful spirit of dedication, especially when it comes to her gardening adventures – a hobby that started with her grandmother. “She had the most enchanting rose garden in Long Island, and I grew up watching her tend to it with care and intention. Roses are my heart plants. Following in my grandma’s footsteps, I’ve created a collection of specialty roses that feels like a living legacy,” MacLean said. When she bought a 2.5-acre property in the neighborhood, it felt like the perfect blank canvas to pursue her gardening dreams. Now she, her husband, and their son happily share their home with 18 chickens, seven desert tortoises, four dogs, and two cats. “Over the years, I’ve built raised garden beds, a chicken coop that could pass for a guest house, planted fruit trees, and cultivated a rose garden with over 100 specialty roses and nearly 200 iceberg roses. I really leaned into gardening. It’s become my passion and my grounding space,” she said. The raised beds are dedicated to nurturing vegetables alongside an orchard filled with apples, pomegranates, peaches, nectarines, Asian pears, plums, and figs. With decades of experience, MacLean hopes to inspire others with valuable insights for both beginners just starting their gardening journey and experts seeking a refresh. A few tips from the MacLean garden Understanding your planting zone and becoming familiar with the unique environment is crucial for growing a thriving garden in Arizona. When gardening in Arcadia and central Arizona, it is essential to recognize that we are in USDA Zone 9b: a plant hardiness zone defined by the United States Department of Agriculture, where the average annual minimum winter temperature can get down to 25°F to 30°. This zone is ideal for A 2.5-acre homestead shows what’s possible in Arizona’s climate 8 Eighteen feathered residents help keep the garden ecosystem thriving. Over 100 specialty roses and nearly 200 iceberg roses bloom in this Arcadia garden. Bloom Fall PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEATHER MACLEAN

9 growing subtropical and some tropical plants, as it experiences mild winters and a long growing season. “Urban gardening in Zone 9b is a gift because our growing season is long, but timing is everything. My biggest tip for fall is to start fresh with your soil – add compost or organic matter before planting so your beds are energized after the summer heat,” MacLean said. “Raised beds and large containers are perfect for smaller spaces. Don’t be afraid to mix beauty and function: roses and herbs can thrive side by side.” And finally, water consistently but deeply; shallow watering is the biggest mistake she notices. “Plants get stronger when their roots must reach down for moisture,” she said. November is a time of renewal in a garden, where the cool weather brings relief from the heat, and the soil remains warm enough for roots to take hold. “This is a perfect time for leafy greens like kale, spinach, lettuce, and Swiss chard. Carrots, radishes, and beets also thrive in the fall. For something heartier, broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage stand out as reliable performers,” MacLean said. “They’re quick growers, so there’s always something ready to harvest.” MacLean advises against planting warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, or basil in the fall, suggesting that it’s wise to wait until late spring to reintroduce these heat-loving plants into your garden. Organic gardening MacLean firmly believes in keeping things simple and natural. For tackling pests like aphids and spider mites, she recommends a homemade spray made of water and a few drops of dish soap. Additionally, she advocates for Neem oil as a powerful, safe option that protects pollinators when applied with care. Companion planting has proven to be vital for managing pests in her garden. By incorporating herbs like marigolds, mint, and garlic alongside vegetables, she effectively deters unwanted bugs. Additionally, the presence of chickens enriches the garden ecosystem – they not only enjoy munching on insects but also provide fresh eggs in return. “Achieving balance is essential: by nurturing beneficial insects, discouraging harmful ones, and fostering a chemical-free garden, we can create an environment that thrives,” MacLean said. She recommends Berridge Nurseries for gardening items and Singh Farms for organic compost. Check in on MacLean and her gardens by following along on Instagram @heathermaclean27 November is a time of renewal in a garden, where the cool weather brings relief from the heat, and the soil remains warm enough for roots to take hold. A R C A D I A B L I N D & S H U T T E R 2921 NORTH 68TH STREET SUITE 1 SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85251 M A I N 4 8 0 2 4 8 8 0 4 7 “YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WINDOW COVERING STORE”