Lush and Lean Workshops

The purpose of the Lush and Lean program is to help residents of Las Cruces make the best use of the limited water resources available by developing and maintaining gardens and landscapes that are also water-wise. Each year the Water Conservation Program hosts a series of workshops on water-wise landscaping, irrigation, gardening, and related topics. The workshops are free and open to the public.

Lush and Lean Workshops are Presented at Branigan Memorial Library Roadrunner Room, 200 E. Picacho Avenue. They take place from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays. All workshops are free.

March 13, 2025
Strategies for Successful Vegetable Gardening in Southern New Mexico

Presented by: Stephanie Walker, Ph.D., Extension Vegetable Specialist, NMSU
With our hot summers and low precipitation, growing vegetables in southern New Mexico can be challenging. This presentation will provide strategies and recommendations to cultivate a thriving harvest.

March 20, 2025
Making Soil Work for You

Presented by: Bill Lindemann, Ph.D., Professor of Soil Microbiology, NMSU
Soil is a natural resource. Types of soil vary greatly depending on where you live in our area. What type of soil is in your yard? How can it be improved? We’ll cover resources for compost and mulch for your garden and landscape to be its best — from the ground up!    

March 27, 2025
What to Know Before Planting Fruit Trees in Southern New Mexico

Presented by: Richard Heerema, Ph.D., Extension Pecan Specialist, NMSU
We’ll discuss the joys and challenges of growing fruit in our desert. Tree species and variety selection, horticultural practices, irrigation, pruning and pest management will be covered.  

April 3, 2025
Shade Tree Basics

Presented by: John M. White, former curator of UTEP Chihuahuan Desert Gardens, retired extension horticulture agent, ISA Certified Arborist
People mistakenly believe trees use a lot of water but their benefits far outweigh as shade-makers, air-cleaners and habitat-providers. We’ll cover site selection, tree choice, planting techniques, proper watering practices, fertilizer basics and tips to keep your trees healthy for the future.

April 10, 2025
Rainwater Harvesting: “Is it Worth it?”

Presented by: Jeff Anderson, Extension Agronomy and Horticulture Agent, NMSU
This presentation will explore practical methods for harvesting rainwater and calculating how much can be collected from your roof or other surfaces. Learn how to use this free pure resource effectively to enhance the health and vitality of your plants, even during droughts.

April 17, 2025
Xeriscape Not “Zero-scape”

Presented by: David Cristiani, owner of Quercus, landscape design consultation firm
Change over your blandscape of gravel or bare soil to designing an outdoor living space you’ll enjoy all year! Learn how to have a great garden that does more for less as a do-it-yourself project or to be more informed when hiring a professional.

April 24, 2025
Pruning Workshop

Presented by: Les Finley, Longtime Local Horticulturist, Nurseryman, ISA Certified Arborist
Homeowners will learn how to correctly prune their trees and shrubs for sustainability and long-term survival. This is a hands-on pruning workshop held outside at Albert Johnson Park in front of Branigan Library. Dress for the activity. This workshop will begin in the Roadrunner Room.

Learn more about the City’s Water Conservation Program.