The difference between Southwestern desert plants and other types of plants used for landscaping is the timing, or when the water is applied.
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Lumps or bumps on the trunk are probably epicormic nodules, places on the trunk covered by thin bark that have a cluster of buds under it. These buds will sometimes grow into shoots. On some trees removing these shoots as soon as they are seen may cause these nodules to stop producing shoots or fewer of them.
I like deals. Buying a large tree in a box and getting it planted for free is a good deal. Just have it done right.
What affects average landscape water use? If the irrigation system is working and managed perfectly, then three factors govern how much water your landscape uses.
As soon as a house is built, the microclimate of its landscape is created. The landscape enhances this created microclimate. How the landscape is created can enhance or distract from this microclimate.