Introduction to the video series. Traditionally set for April, tour sponsor, the Morongo Basin Conservation Association (MBCA), canceled this year’s planned, self-guided landscape tour in response to the COVID 19 pandemic. Unwilling to give up the popular event, MBCA decided that if the public could not go to the properties, the properties should be brought to the public via video.

"Casa de Culebra" was born out of the labor and vision of avid gardener and career artist Snake Jagger. The undisturbed landscape in the area is characterized by creosote, various native yucca and cholla cacti. The natives were retained where possible as the property was developed. Along the rock-lined nature trail one see the homeowner's singular viewpoint, with numerous, somewhat hidden, artistic vignettes. There are decorative cactus plots, solar-powered water fountains, a dry river bed, wind chimes and art installations. This popular artist's whimsically-surreal, signature painted doors have been incorporated throughout. Have a seat and enjoy the installations or the views of Morongo Valley.

“Agave Acres” is an energy efficient, off-the-grid, solar-powered home on a 37-acre Pioneertown parcel. It is integrated into the natural landscape and sited to capture views of the surrounding Joshua tree forest and Black Lava Butte. Boulders have been placed to create low walls that accommodate the sloping terrain. Care was taken to preserve and feature native plants that include Joshua tree, catclaw acacia, ephedra and blackbrush. The indigenous landscape has been supplemented with the addition of mesquite trees, cactus, agave and container plantings. Greywater is also available for use on plantings.

Near the western edge of Joshua Tree National Park native juniper and pinyon pine distinguish this Yucca Valley area. Construction of the adobe-style dwelling sought to reduce impact to the landscape, making use of the natural wash and contours, thereby minimizing grading of the one acre lot. Along the side and around the back patio, the natural landscape was enhanced with new, drought-tolerant vegetation. A self-contained interior courtyard features both drought-tolerant and non-traditional desert specimens. A seasonally adjusted drip irrigation system further supports the conservation goals.

This 2.5 acre Flamingo Heights, CA property is surrounded by creosote scrub and features garden hardscape decor from locally harvested rock. In early spring, silver spurge with chartreuse flowers delights, having been transplanted throughout the landscape. Committed to low water use, the owners irrigate the front yard only. Joshua tree and cholla skeletons have been used to provide structure and as decorated accents. Inviting flagstone-paved walking paths lead to a pond and large, south-facing outdoor living space and cooking patio.

The Mattos-Ince Compound of 2.5 acres is a Desert Spanish Colonial built in 1953, with white stucco structures and red tile roofs. One landscape goal was to protect the creosote and take advantage of this native plant via a bit of water and careful pruning. The creosotes therefore serve as hedges, unique trees and low level mounds of evergreen accents. An automated, low-maintenance irrigation system with bubblers, drips and a couple of sprinkler heads is well-suited for both owner and landscape. Trees drink from a greywater system. Drainage swales help to slow and move rainwater.