To determine how the new garden area is “facing” — do I orient the compass I am holding, facing the sun or with my back to it?

Question

New garden. I don’t know how to get the correct direction for “facing” for new plants. I’m in the high desert of Rio Rancho NM, it’s very hot in summer and close to zero in winter… the sun’s orientation can make all the difference in a plant’s survival.. I can’t figure out how to determine “facing.” If I’m holding the compass in my hand, is the correct facing direction, with the sun in my face or to my back?

Answer 1

A compass will always point to magnetic North, no matter what. Tall plants should be on the north side of the garden, while short plants should be on the south side.

If you are facing the sun, then you will either be facing Southeast, or Southwest depending on the time of day.