It’s finally cooled down here in California and fall is a great time to reflect on what’s done well and what hasn’t in our yards. And also ponder what we might do differently. In Southern California - unlike in the Midwest where I grew up - there’s no rest for the weary since fall through winter are …
Channel Islands: Old California
It seemed a no-brainer to grab an opportunity to explore two of the Channel Islands with ecologist-extraordinare Kurt Leuschner, a professor at College of the Desert in Palm Desert. Anacapa Island, the barren rookery for hundreds of Western Gulls, and Santa Cruz, the lushest and largest, offered two …
Habitat Gardening (Part 1) – Insects are Good!
I recently attended an all-day workshop on Habitat Gardening that covered our birds and butterflies and pollinators. It also focused on how to welcome beneficial insects to combat pests, therefore avoiding the use of pesticides. Led by Frederique Lavoipierre, Director of Education at the Santa …
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Pruning Native Plants: Tips We’ve Found Useful
Our California native plants are hanging in for the winter -- undoubtedly hoping for some real winter rains. In the meantime, for many it's the time of year to do some pruning. There are exceptions (see below) but pruning in the winter months before new growth starts is often recommended. Here are …
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My, What Rains Bring to the Desert in Spring – Anza Borrego
We've had 17 inches of rain in our inland Southern California city this rainy season. That's a lot for us. Our nearby deserts have received about half that. Along with pleasant temps, this translates into stunning wildflower and cactus flower displays which began in February. For locals, it's not …
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Favorite Plants: California Native Trees and Shrubs
If you’re in the market for a tree or shrub, consider California natives -- for a number of reasons. While we’ve received nearly two inches of rain this fall, Southern California is still in an extreme drought. California native trees are drought tolerant and have the best chance of success once …
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