Water; too much or too little. Either way, water and its power are central to the concept of a garden. To those of us in the West, and parts of the world where the presence of water is less dependable and less abundant than we would like, we take our cues from the garden-makers of […]
Think you love ‘em or think you hate ‘em? Either way, geraniums are often misunderstood. Long appreciated in the UK, true Geraniums (aka Hardy Geraniums) are not as well known in the US. The biggest part of the problem is that, historically, we have had a case of mistaken identity. The flamboyantly colorful plants that […]
“If I re-landscape because of the drought, what happens when it starts to rain again?” This is a question I have been asked a lot lately. The re-education of the California gardener is really having an effect. More and more clients are wanting to put in low-water landscaping, even though I’ve been designing those kinds […]
Lose the lawn? No problem. More and more people are getting on board with lawn-less gardens in California. Of course, historically low rainfall and state mandated water conservation are the reason for the change of heart for many people. But losing the lawn can make room for re-thinking what you want in your landscape to begin […]
“A naturally robust and earthy wine red” that’s how the color “Marsala” is described by the Pantone Color Institute when introducing their 2015 Color of the Year. “Dramatic and at the same time grounding…it’s red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness”, says the Executive Director, Leatrice Eiseman of color #18-1438. This warm shade compliments almost […]
There’s still time. There’s still a little more time before summer is over, so I always feel the responsibility to make the most of it. Entertaining a few more times, playing a little harder and generally having as much fun as possible in the time available. But, of course, to do that well you also […]
“An enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones”, that’s how the Pantone Color Institute describes color # 17-5641, Radiant Orchid, their choice for the 2014 Color of the Year. The executive Director, Leatrice Eiseman, goes on to say; “Radiant Orchid…emanates great joy, love and health. It is a captivating purple, one that draws you […]
Early September can be a confusing time. Football has started but Baseball will last for another month, or more. For many, summer is over. Kids have gone back to school and the stores are filling with Halloween items. But technically, the autumn equinox, signaling the official start of fall, is still weeks away. There’s less […]
Jan loved the Prostanthera. That’s Prostanthera ovalifolia variegata, also known as Variegated Australian Mint Bush, a versatile shrub that’s been blooming its head off for more than a month now. Jan is Jan Nelson, also known as The Mountain Gardener, a versatile designer and garden writer who has been penning her column for the Valley Press […]
I don’t think she was planning to use a designer. She already had an excellent sense of color and she pretty much knew what she wanted; a new retaining wall and a vine on the fence. But she agreed to meet with me, at the suggestion of her contractor, because she did think she could […]
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