Note: RSABG in Claremont CA has a free talk on Dec 17, 10-11am on "How to Water and Plant Native Plants" After a baking hot summer in SoCA and no precipitation, we've revisited our previous planting and watering schedule. We're still happy we went with mostly California native plants, but …
Low-water Plants for Summer Heat
As for many in California, the numerous days of 100+ degree heat has been tough on our vegetable garden, roses, fruit trees and well, pretty much everything (including ourselves....) But we continue to have some plants – mostly California natives or their hybrids – that look good despite little …
Attracting Pollinators and Butterflies to our Yards
Who doesn’t want more butterflies in their yards? You need nectar plants of course. But if you want to watch all the butterfly stages -- which means your plant’s leaves will get eaten by the growing caterpillars -- you need to include specific host plants, such as milkweed for monarchs, or thistle …
Continue Reading about Attracting Pollinators and Butterflies to our Yards
Drought-busting: Why to Plant Natives?
The drought here in California -- we've received less than 8 inches of rain here in Redlands -- is encouraging much discussion on how to reduce water usage. I've written a lot about our use of California natives in our landscaping so I want to reference some of my popular articles on why they're a …
Continue Reading about Drought-busting: Why to Plant Natives?
Native Plants Do Help Habitat for Wildlife
A friend forwarded an article "Are We Really Helping" by plant ecologist Susan Tweit that questions how much the planting of native plants aids wildlife. The answer is yes, it does. As I've mentioned in previous posts, while keeping some mature (50 + years) California natives such as Sugar Bush …
Continue Reading about Native Plants Do Help Habitat for Wildlife
California Native Plants: Favorites of Two Residents
Fall is the perfect time to be exploring and planning the purchases of California native choices, with lots of plant sales. So I checked in with some friends who over the last couple years have planted California natives - to get feedback on what's done well for them. It's challenging where we live …
Continue Reading about California Native Plants: Favorites of Two Residents