Desert soil

1 part calcined clay or ¼-inch lava pebble (to create excellent drainage similar to that found in the desert soils).

There's also the matter of caliche (pronounced "cal-EECH-ee"), a sort of natural "concrete" hardpan found in certain alkaline desert soils. Caliche occurs anywhere from the soil surface to several feet down and stops roots cold.

Prepare the soil in each space for the appropriate plants. Most desert soil is clay and might have a layer of caliche that needs to be broken up before planting can occur. Add compost or manure to the soil and work it in.

See also: Plant, Soil, Grow, Genera, Vegetable