How can you make the desert able to grow plants?

Question

like adding stuff to the dirt ect.

Answer 1

As said above, water.  If you have enough water the desert soil is great.  It is very porous, so you need constant watering and explains why most countries can't afford to do it.  

However, some Middle East countries, like Saudi Arabia, have so much oil, they can cheaply run desalination plants that convert sea water to irrigate the desert.  Some years ago, Saudi Arabia became self sufficient in wheat by this method, and actually exported some.  

You can see the giant circular irrigation areas from space (Google Earth) if you know where to look.

Answer 2

one word water

Answer 3

The desert does grow plants very nicely as it is, thank you!  The adaptations of the plants that grow in the Mojave, Colorado, Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts alone is impressive.

Why modify?  You'd have to supply additional water to maintain the vegetation, and it seems there would be better uses for the available water in a desert region.

Answer 4

Most deserts will not grow plants because of the lack of water.