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Prickly Pear Planting Field Day
July 18, 2025 @ 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm UTC+0
Join us for a free hands-on field day as we return to the site of our water harvesting workshop to continue building a more resilient desert landscape! This time, we’ll be planting prickly pear (nopales) and installing protective netting to help young plants thrive as they establish.
Participants will:
- Learn how to propagate and plant prickly pear cactus, gaining skills to grow this drought-tolerant, soil-stabilizing plant at home or in the wild.
- Install safety netting around young cactus pads to protect them from wildlife while they root and grow.
- Add to the work completed during our previous water harvesting field day, building on the regenerative landscape design already in place.
This field day continues our efforts to regenerate soil, retain water, and support native and food-bearing plants in our desert environment. Whether you joined us last time or are new to the project, this is a great chance to deepen your hands-on skills and help grow a healthier landscape.
A free, grant-funded meal will be provided after the work is done. All ages and skill levels welcome!
Register here: https://crucescreatives.org/event-6250633?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=7/5/2025
Date: Jul 18, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Corner of Cristo Rey and Joe Gutierrez Doña Ana, NM 88007
General Agenda
5:00 – 5:15 PM
Welcome, Sign-In & Overview
5:15 – 6:00 PM
Cactus Propagation & Planting
- Demonstration on how to plant and space prickly pear pads
- Small group planting of 7 cactus patches
- Adding chicken wire protection around each new planting
6:00 – 6:45 PM
Site Maintenance & Protection
- Install chicken wire fencing around existing plants
- Discuss why plant protection is essential in early establishment
6:45 – 7:15 PM
Plaque Installation & Final Touches
- Add plaques to new and existing plantings
- Light cleanup and group reflection
7:15 – 7:30 PM
Dinner on site
What to wear/bring:
- Work clothes and shoes
- Sun protection
- Water bottle
- Gloves