There are 700 - 1000 Salvias, the largest genus in the mint family. In this post we're focusing on TEN amazing Salvia plants (Sages) for your garden or container. Blooming as we speak (late August) and flowering like gangbusters much of Spring - … [Read more]
Trees: Crape Myrtle – Summer’s Longest Bloomer!
The impact of a Crape Myrtle tree? In a recent post about Wisteria, blooms are the focus, but Wisteria blooms generally last only up to 30 days; not so with Crape Myrtle... This summer blooming tree stays in bloom 2 - 3 months, which is excellent as … [Read more]
Variegated Foliage – A Simple Way to Add Contrast in Planting Design
As you can see from the lead photo of this large hedge of variegated buckthorn (Rhamnus a. 'Variegata') variegated leaves can be a useful tool to add beautiful, easy contrast to your plant design. In this short post, take a look at the "hue … [Read more]
Lantana: Showy Perennial. Use as Trailers, Mounds, Low Shrubs and Topiary
Lantana is a popular plant in the SF Bay area. Its staying power owes to its constant bloom, showy flowers, and the fact that this plant in all its forms is enjoyed by hummingbirds and butterflies for habitat gardens; and, is a drought tolerant, … [Read more]
Wisteria Vine: Rethinking Its Place in Small Home Garden Design
Vine choices in the garden? Does it matter? Yes! And wisteria is a giant. A vine known to swallow landscapes and buildings (I saw this first hand just outside Buenos Aires, Argentina). But, what about wisteria's potential and place in a small … [Read more]
Real vs Fake: These Strong Forms Make Impressive Artificial Desert Plants + Cacti
For a semi-arid touch we visited Sedona, Arizona. The plant palette going from Phoenix to Sedona included desert and high desert natives and was a good representation of iconic desert flora. I found myself back from the trip looking at my Arizona … [Read more]
Sedona, Arizona: How Home Landscaping Reflects the Natural Environment
We're just back from a week-long trip to Sedona, Arizona where arresting views of red rock canyons is a feast for the eyes and provides an incredible and unique backdrop for home owners. (Lots of photos below!!!) If you haven't been to Sedona, … [Read more]
Why Okatsune Pruning Shears Are the Best Kept Secret!
A few years ago, I came to terms with the fact that my well used hand shears were near the end of their life (as mentioned, well used). I was about to buy a new pair, when a friend got me to try out her Japanese pruning shears. They were made with … [Read more]
13 Blockbuster Plants for the February Garden!
Did you catch the Oscars last weekend? I did - and it got me thinking about the Blockbuster Oscar worthy plants for the February garden. With Valentine's day almost here, mid-February is an excellent time to consider what Oscar worthy plants … [Read more]
Magid or West County Gauntlet Rose Gloves – I Can’t Decide?
It's rose pruning season in northern California and time to suit up if you don't want end the day with hours of thorn removal. This year, besides wearing a thick, long sleeved shirt, I added gauntlet rose pruning gloves to my armor. These gloves are … [Read more]
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