For centuries the Akimel O'otham farmed corn, beans, squash, melons and cotton. This reality was the inspiration behind the new garden at Aji (G-Aji) which is just one of the many concepts adding to the success of Aji's Geo-Green efforts. Led by Aji Spa Director, Shane Bird and associate volunteers wielding their shovels and a passion to give back to Mother Earth they have reinvented an empty wash and brought an organic garden to life.

Terraced garden beds and drip systems were installed and the soil was fortified. The final, and most crucial, step was to find native seeds that would acclimatize to our desert environment. Native Seed Search in Tucson was the obvious answer and helped us maintain our efforts to honor the practices and plants traditionally found on the Gila River Indian Community.

Our initial harvest was bountiful. Gaji produced native onions, garlic, tomatoes, peppers, beans, corn, gourds and herbs. In the future we aim to implement all of the produce and crops from Gaji into our treatments and where applicable, in the café at Aji. Thus far, we have been able to use these items in our salads and as sides. Guests have enjoyed the opportunity to partake of just one more truly authentic experience at Aji. In the near future we have plans to plant squash, melons and several other items that we can use to expand and enhance our café menu.

When it comes to gardening it is truly a way to connect with the Earth and become "grounded." It is an opportunity to nurture and consistently track the fruits of your labor. It provides you with an opportunity to witness how all things in nature interact. From the soil and water, to the heat, and cold, even the seeds themselves, all are factors in either the success or demise of a garden. Gardening in the Arizona desert requires patience and persistence. If the soil is right, the seeds are native and enough attention is paid, we hope to successfully join the long history of Akimel O'otham farmers who nurtured and harvested from this land for centuries.

Stay tuned, in the months ahead, for monthly updates on Gaji and gardening tips from our resident green-thumb and Spa Director, Shane Bird.

Join us at Aji on Independence weekend for some peace, freedom, relaxation and grown up fun. Aji Café will be celebrating with fun and festive offerings.

Red - Bloody Mary  $10
White - Pina Colada  $10
Blue - Blue Moon Ale  $5

Our decadent holiday dessert is slightly sinful but ever so nice. Indulge with our amaretto soaked strawberry and blueberry fruit medley drizzled over angel food cake and topped with whipped cream.
$7 never tasted so good.