Olive Trees in California: Beauty That Lasts “The versatile olive tree that can be grown anywhere. This young tree decorates the entrance and is elegant filling the space with its green branches and leaves.” (Jodi Bay) By Namir Damluji, UC Master Gardener of San Diego County Some trees just feel [Read More…]

What is a Master Gardener? By Linda Stewart, UC Master Gardener Have you ever wondered who we are? What we do? Where we get our information? What we are trying to accomplish?  I am here to answer these questions. Who we are: Master Gardeners are a nationwide group of volunteers present in all 50 [Read More…]

Hands-on projects help children soak up science An assortment of spices from your kitchen cabinet can be repurposed as watercolor paint. A shake of spice can spark a conversation about what plants they come from. (Jon Lewis) By Jon Lewis (This article was originally published in the February 14, [Read More…]

Spring Planting for Edible Flowers Question: What are the benefits of planting edible flowers in my garden? Answer: As spring nears, it is time for those of us in Southern California to consider what will be in our gardens this year. Many gardeners select one or more themes, such as pollinator [Read More…]

‘Wow, what is THAT tree?’ 6 low water, beautiful bloomers that are optimal for growing in San Diego County Fragrant pink flowers cover a pink trumpet tree (Handroanthus heptaphyllus) in Balboa Park in June 2025. (Dawn Standke) By Dawn Standke (This article originally appeared in the Jan 10, 2026 [Read More…]

Shaw’s Agave: A Rare Botanical Gem in San Diego By Leah Taylor, UC Master Gardener of San Diego County (This article originally appeared in the Jan / Feb 2026 edition of Cal Gardens magazine.)   San Diego’s diverse coastal ecosystem is home to an extraordinary array of plant species, but few [Read More…]