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Our Approach
Living Lab

A living lab for the low Sonoran Desert

PupfishCo. is built around proof-of-work. We test soil, water, timing, and plant care in real conditions, then publish the process so you can replicate it. The goal is not perfection. The goal is reliability.

A close-up shot of a student's hands carefully planting a native Sonoran plant in a small pot during a PupfishCo. workshop, showcasing the hands-on learning experience.
Small experiments
One variable at a time, so the result means something.
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A detailed field log documenting the growth of a specific plant species in the PupfishCo. living lab, complete with handwritten notes, measurements, and observations.
Field logs and lessons learned
What happened, what surprised us, and what we changed next.
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A step-by-step guide with clear visuals demonstrating how to build a simple rainwater harvesting system for desert gardens, part of PupfishCo.'s educational materials.
Repeatable steps
Guides written to be replicated in Sonoran Desert yards.
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Permaculture Principles for the Sonoran Desert

PupfishCo. engages in desert gardening through a permaculture lens. We design from observation, we build the system before we chase results, and we let feedback decide what stays. The Sonoran Desert does not reward force. It rewards timing, shade, soil life, and small changes that compound. If there is a slogan here, it is simple: work with nature, not against it. Also, the problem is the solution.

A close-up shot of a hand carefully watering a small native plant seedling in a desert garden, demonstrating water conservation techniques.
Observe first, then intervene
We start with microclimates, sun angles, wind, soil texture, and seasonal timing. We make the smallest change that can teach us something, then we adjust. Patterns first, details second.
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A vibrant image showcasing a variety of native Sonoran Desert plants thriving in a well-designed garden, highlighting their beauty and adaptability.
Catch and store water, then build soil
In the desert, water is your budget and soil biology is your multiplier. We prioritize shade, infiltration, mulch, organic matter, and living roots so moisture lasts longer and nutrients cycle instead of leaching or baking off.
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A detailed shot of healthy soil teeming with life, showcasing the importance of soil health for plant growth and overall garden sustainability.
Stack functions and share the yield
Every element should do more than one job. A tree can shade, feed soil, block wind, and support habitat. A bed can grow food and build fertility. We aim for real yields and we share what works so others can copy it without repeating our mistakes.
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Hands-On Learning

Explore Our Living Lab

At PupfishCo.’s Living Lab, we turn gardening theory into practice. Dive into small experiments, document your findings in field logs, and follow our copyable step-by-step guides to master low Sonoran Desert growing. It’s all about learning by doing and sharing knowledge within our community. Join us!
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Latest Blog Posts

Discover tips, experiments, and updates on desert gardening.
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What's going on now

Unlock the Secrets of Living Soil for Thriving Desert Gardens

Discover how living soil revolutionizes desert gardening by enhancing plant growth, drastically reducing water consumption, and fostering a vibrant, self-sustaining ecosystem right in your backyard. Embrace nature’s solution for a greener tomorrow.
  • Boosts Plant Growth: Living soil provides essential nutrients for robust plant development.
  • Conserves Water: Improves water retention, reducing the need for frequent watering.
  • Supports Healthy Desert Gardening: Creates a balanced ecosystem for thriving plants.

Join Our Community Garden

Collaborate with neighbors to grow native desert plants, share resources, and learn sustainable gardening techniques together.
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Join Our Gardening Programs

Discover hands-on desert gardening activities, small experiments, and step-by-step guides designed for all skill levels at PupfishCo.
Get Started Today
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The life in the soil is the solution

Healthy soil is the foundation of successful desert gardening. It provides essential nutrients, retains moisture, and supports beneficial microbial life that promotes plant growth. By focusing on soil health, we can create thriving gardens even in arid environments.
A close-up shot of healthy soil teeming with earthworms and plant roots, illustrating the vibrant ecosystem beneath the surface.

Healthy Soil, Healthy Plants

Discover the secrets to building and maintaining healthy soil for thriving desert gardens.
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