The monsoon rain came a little early this summer, and the desert is blooming again. Joshua Tree National Park Ranger Cathy Bell says all desert residents should make an effort to be water wise…
It is amazing how fast the desert responds to the monsoon rains of summertime. Immediately after a thunderstorm, plants like the spindly ocotillo grow new leaves. Colorful flowers bloom, attracting insect pollinators. Barrel cactus swell as they seize their chance to slurp up moisture. Within just a few days of summer rains, the tan desert takes on a green tint as new plant growth occurs.
The many species of plants that are native to the California desert have all adapted to cope with water supplies that are not only scarce, but unpredictable. Native plants know how to hunker down and conserve water during tough times—and that’s a valuable lesson for all of us who live in or visit the desert. The state of California is experiencing an historic drought, and we all share a responsibility to conserve water. Make an effort to live like our desert natives. Learn to be water wise.
LIVE LIKE A DESERT NATIVE
