Why Smart Irrigation Matters Now More Than Ever As Southern California enters the peak of summer, water agencies, utilities, and residents are turning their attention to one of the region’s most pressing challenges—sustainable water use. July is officially recognized as Smart Irrigation Month, a…
Imagine a garden designed to focus on creating natural wildlife habitat. Why not eliminate turf grass from your own garden and replace it with trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals that benefit wildlife? Welcome to Naturescaping, a method of landscaping that allows people and nature to coexist. By growing…
The Bay Area is a rich climate for having color all year from perennials. We highlight a few of our favorites if you're looking to enjoy bountiful color in your garden.
Stephen Reid credits the UC Master Gardener program for preparing him for his role as assistant curator for the rose portion of the famous botanic garden in Pasadena.
Five Steps to Avoid Becoming THE Problem in YOUR Vegetable Garden. I have been growing my own vegetables for the last thirty years. I have grown vegetables in the ground, raised beds, and containers. During those years I have enjoyed good and bad harvests. Sometimes the problems which resulted in a poor…
Shade equity is the inspiration for a new art exhibition at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge called “Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World.”
As climate change in California becomes more palpable, local gardeners are feeling the literal heat. In a recent episode of KQED Forum, host Alexis Madrigal brought together a panel of gardening experts to discuss how rising temperatures, inconsistent rainfall, and urban microclimates are reshaping the…
The invasive goldspotted oak borer has spread across SoCal, leaving boneyards of dead trees behind. This June, UC ANR and community partners launched an effort to track this pest.
Las copas de los árboles urbanos (UTC), es decir, las capas de hojas, ramas y tallos que cubren el suelo en las ciudades, son herramientas esenciales para gestionar las aguas pluviales, en particular en zonas urbanas densas como las del sur de California. En paisajes dominados por superficies…
Gardening with graywater is a smart, sustainable way to conserve water, cut costs, and nourish plants—learn safe, effective tips in this practical guide.