Donate to our Desert Garden Project

Hello Friends,

My name is Rosie and I have lived my entire life in southern Arizona. I have been creating herbal skincare, self care and haircare out of sustainably foraged Sonoran Desert plants for 9 years. I believe by connecting to the land through our senses, we appreciate nature in a powerful, personal way. I am all about growth, in all areas of our lives, especially when it comes to business. I opened a local gift shop 4 years ago, Arizona Poppy, to continue to grow my business and support Tucson's local maker community. I have also organized and ran a local makers market, Desert Air Market, for 6 years. I believe in the healing and medicinal properties of the unique plants in the southwest which is why I wrote a book to help people identify, work with and learn more about desert plants called Seasons of the Desert. My life has been dedicated to the Sonoran Desert, Tucson and the people, plants and wildlife that live here. 

As developments continue to encroach on pristine wild land, I believe it is important (now more than ever) to find small ways to preserve it what we can. I have had a dream of creating a native desert garden near Tucson for years now. To grow medicinal and edible native plants, not only to share my creations with others but for workshops and experiences. I also plan to offer free & affordable workshops to autistic youth and indigenous people. I will slowly create a community space where others can learn, connect and experience our true wild desert. Eventually my hope would be that this garden would be open to the public.

I have combined resources with my friend Wren, a fellow herbalist and land steward, to be able to make an offer on 4 acres of untouched Sonoran Desert land in Three Points, AZ. They accepted our offer and we are in the purchasing process. If you have lived in the Tucson area long then it’s easy to see how it has expanded into the desert continually and eventually this area will be full of businesses, homes etc. We are going to preserve the plants & natural ecosystems that are on it currently, bring water to the current plants and add more native plants= turning the land into a small desert oasis that won’t be developed. In the future, this will be critical for wildlife. Desert pockets amongst developments are vital to help reduce heat and help wildlife have a safe space. We are natural stewards and believe we all belong in harmony with the earth. 

I always thought this dream was out of reach (for mostly financial reasons), until now. I am so grateful for all the donations that made it possible for me to purchase this land. Being an ever growing business, almost all of my profit goes right back into the business, leaving me with little to no savings. I put in a large chunk of my personal money that was supposed to be for dental work and car repairs.  I believe in this mission and want to share it with you, in hopes you will consider donating, even a small amount. I have always been able to do a lot with very little because I have lived my whole life with little means so I know I can create something really beautiful out of whatever donations I am given. I have known for a long time that this was part of my calling and as humbling as it is asking my community to help me, I know we can create something beautiful and long lasting, together. 

I wouldn't have my business without the continual support of my community. I would deeply appreciate any and all donations as it will go to upcoming expenses such as a land survey, water hauling, natural shade structures, tools and more. 

I will continue to keep everyone updated through social media and my newsletter so you can witness the garden's progression. It will take time, especially on a budget, but every idea I have been passionate about and work towards, eventually comes to fruition. 

THANK YOU!!