2026 PGSU Garden Story: Kathy and Gary

A Desert Vision Takes Root

Hidden on five acres at the edge of Ivins, Kathy and Gary’s desert garden tells the story of what began as a simple wish for a minimalist landscape. Over the decades, it has evolved into a living tapestry of cactus, agave, natural pathways, and open views framed by the red rock of Red Mountain. 

The garden’s transformation began with Bonnie Pendleton, the original landscaper, who came recommended by an interior designer friend. From the beginning, Kathy and Gary envisioned a restrained, low-water, low-maintenance landscape that would feel at home in the surrounding desert.

Their first experiment included a small patch of grass—but the gophers had other plans. The lawn eventually disappeared, replaced with hardy, sculptural desert plants that could thrive in the local conditions.

Rescued Giants and Creative Vision

Bonnie’s creative eye and resourcefulness can still be seen throughout the property. Many of the “big pieces” in the garden—towering cacti and statement agaves—came from a remarkable opportunity when another homeowner wanted all their large cactus removed. Bonnie offered the plants to Kathy and Gary for the cost of installation alone.

The result is a collection of impressive, mature specimens—including a massive agave near the side fence—that give the garden its signature character.

Over time, the garden has grown organically. As cacti and agaves produced pups and “babies,” Bonnie replanted them, extending the landscape outward and deepening the sense that this desert oasis has always belonged here.

Designing with the Desert

With five acres to work with, Kathy and Gary chose to focus their cultivated garden space near the house, where they could enjoy color, movement, and texture. Beyond that area, the outer reaches of the property are left more natural, allowing the surrounding desert to remain part of the landscape.

Visitors will follow thoughtfully placed walkways past the first water feature that was built, eventually arriving at a larger waterfall that brings life to a welcoming entertainment area—one that has hosted countless family gatherings and celebrations.

That balance carries into the garden’s maintenance as well. The space was designed to be beautiful without being fussy. Seasonal clean-ups, debris removal, and a bit of thoughtful editing keep things looking intentional, but much of the garden’s charm comes from allowing the desert to do what it does best.

Winter can leave the landscape quiet and subdued, yet even then there is color—and the promise of spring. After a good rain year, unexpected wildflowers and desert blooms appear, short-lived but enchanting reminders of the land’s resilience.

A Property with a Story

The property itself has a story as rich as the planting. The original two-acre parcel was once part of a much larger tract of land—nearly 200 acres in total. Over time, Kathy and Gary were able to purchase adjoining acres at just the right moments.

First they expanded to complete their five-acre parcel. Later, they added one more crucial acre that now serves as a protective buffer—preserving their privacy and the sweeping views they treasure.

Today they enjoy the rare luxury of knowing no one will be building directly behind them, even as the surrounding region continues to grow and modernize.

Red Mountain Sunrises

Longtime residents, they have watched Ivins change from a modest rural community—once jokingly referred to as the “armpit of the county”—into a sought-after destination. Old cars and farm relics that once lined the roadside have gradually given way to carefully designed homes and resort developments.

Yet their property still holds onto the feeling of being out in the country.

From the house, they look toward Red Mountain, often catching those fleeting, spectacular moments when sunrise or sunset ignites the rock in brilliant color against a deep blue sky. Visitors sometimes ask if the photos are enhanced—but as Kathy and Gary can attest, the color is very real.

This garden is not about perfection. It is about belonging—to the desert, to a community whose story spans decades, and to a family who chose to stay because, as they say, there’s nowhere else quite like this.

Come enjoy Gary and Kathy's garden at the Parade of Gardens; April 24th-26th, 2026.