Sprawling oaks and sycamores aren’t suited for small urban lots, but several other native trees are good candidates. Some to consider for patio and street trees are the heat-loving desert willow (Chilopsis linearis) with its rosy-pink blooms; shiny-leaved Catalina cherry (Prunus ilicifolia ssp lyonii) with white flowers followed by red berries; western redbud (Cercis occidentalis) with deep […]
California native plants a waterwise option right under our noses BY LUCY WARREN (This article originally appeared in the San Diego Union-Tribune September 9, 2023) As gardeners, we are drawn to the latest, brightest varieties of thirsty, exotic species for our gardens, always chasing the new and unusual. As our world heats up with climate change, […]
Paradise Hills group converts land loop into native-plant showcase BY WES JANSSEN (This article originally appeared in the June 10, 2023 edition of the San Diego Union-Tribune) Loss of wild habitat drives climate change and degrades biodiversity. Gardeners, landowners and informed volunteers have important opportunities to be an antidote. This is the story of one […]
By Donna McClay Question: I recently converted to drip irrigation in my raised bed vegetable garden. How often and how long should I be watering? Answer: The simple answer is: It depends! There are several factors affecting how often and how long to water vegetables in raised beds: What time of year is it? Where do […]
BY SHARON REEVE It is always a relief for me when the cooler temperatures of fall bring the promise of rain. Fall is also the season when some plants really shine with peak bloom. Fall bloomers, like most plants, should be planted now. The ground has some needed moisture and the temperatures are cooler, yet […]
