Saguaros are a very slow-growing cactus. A plant two feet in height may be 16 years old on its way to 25 feet and over 175 years old.
In the early years of life they are more susceptible to heat, drought and freezing temperatures. By the time they are five feet or more they have endured many harsh conditions, and in some cases, mistreatment by humans.
This is a photographic essay of saguaros along a popular trail in the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. For some strange reason, some people like to cut the tops off, or in general slice these beautiful icons of the Sonoran Desert. As you can see, most are survivors, continuing their slow growth.
It is not easy to stop aggression toward nature, but through education human aggression can be better channeled. The more people can experience nature, the more likely they will develop positive feeling toward the natural environment. Most people, when asked who they are, will answer by talking about the landscape from which they come, which reflects positive feeling of familiarity and security in that environment.
When I talk
about Sabino Canyon
I mean myself,
my home,
my state of mind.
Some don’t get what I say,
maybe it’s because
we don’t talk the same language.
All I can say to those I meet:
“Try and make it to Sabino Canyon.”
kenne
Damaged Saguaro Cactus in Sabino Canyon — Images by kenne
(Click on any of the images for larger view in a slide-show format.)
