What is Hydrozoning and How Does it Work? Hydrozoning yard plan image credit: Guzmans Greenhouse Question: I’ve heard the word “hydrozoning” – what is it and how does it work? Answer: Hydrozoning is key for a healthy garden. Here’s why: Last month in “Dig It!” we provided a guide for assessing the [Read More…]

Working with California’s new ‘Zone Zero’ home fire safety perimeter Zone Zero regulations are intended to reduce the impact of wildfires on business and residential structures. (Dave Hoefler via Unsplash.com) By Susan Pransky (This article originally appeared in the May 9, 2026 edition of the [Read More…]

Matilija Poppy: California’s Spectacular Fire-Following Flower Matilija Poppies need space to grow. An annual trimming helps to manage their size. (Photo credit: Jodi Bay) By Kathy McKee, UC Master Gardener, San Diego (This article originally appeared in the May / June edition of California Gardens [Read More…]

The Dilemma of Peat By Michael Harrelson The efficacy of using peat as a soil amendment for home gardeners may very well depend on where you live.  There is no argument that peat increases soil viability and improves crop yields. Soil scientists estimate that one acre of harvested peat can account [Read More…]

Moister meters Proper Irrigation Can Solve Many Garden Problems by Valorie Shatynski, UC Master Gardener Our region formally enters the dry season very soon, and many weather variables that impact plants profoundly will begin to increase. The transition to warmer day and nighttime temperatures, [Read More…]

Growing a buzzworthy backyard Beekeeper Kira Olsson inspects a rescued colony of European honey bees (Apis mellifera). These bees were living in a patio wall in Santee. From their new home on Mount Soledad, they visit canyon natives and backyard orchards. (Photo credit: Kira Olsson) By Kira Olsson [Read More…]