Around The Cracker Barrel - From Overwatering to Overgrowing: Gardening Done Right in Arizona with Cassie Burruel (Aired 05/01/2026)

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, Guy Atchley welcomes Cassie Burruel from the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension for an insightful conversation on gardening in Southern Arizona’s unique desert climate.

With nearly three decades of experience, Cassie shares how the Cooperative Extension has been helping communities for over 100 years—offering everything from gardening advice to family engagement programs and financial literacy initiatives for young children.

The discussion dives into practical, science-based gardening tips, including one of the most common mistakes desert gardeners make: overwatering. Cassie explains the importance of deep, infrequent watering to promote stronger root systems and healthier plants. She also highlights beginner-friendly plants, the benefits of native species, and how to adapt gardening practices to Arizona’s changing climate.

Listeners will also learn about upcoming community programs like vertical gardening workshops and adaptive gardening techniques designed for older adults or those with mobility challenges.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this episode is packed with helpful advice to grow smarter in the desert.