Plant Care

The most effective irrigation systems are designed, installed, and maintained to distribute water as uniformly as possible and only when and where water is needed. That means applying water where roots can use it.

Reduce irrigation times as day length shortens and plant growth slows. Photo: Courtesy UC Regents Maintenance and prevention Reduce irrigation times as day length shortens and plant growth slows.

Here are recommended tools and basic pruning techniques for maintaining the health of a plant and for accentuating key attributes, such as leaves, bark, branch structure, flowers, fruit, or other desirable characteristics. Bypass pruners or shears BYPASS SHEARS Bypass shears are like scissors.

When fallen leaves are overly abundant, consider composting them or shredding them so that they decompose more quickly. Photo: Marie Narlock Theres nothing like the glowing presence of autumn colors, each brilliant red, orange, and yellow leaf backlit by the sun.

California native plants have evolved to be well adapted to our dry summer/wet winter climate, plus they support native birds and insects. They are generally water-wise choices for landscaping.Remember that California contains a wide variety of growing conditions, from sandy deserts to moist creek sides…

While rains in February and March have contributed to rising reservoirs and mountain snowpack, the fact remains that California is in a drought.

When to plant: January–March (bareroot) Harvest window: October–November, depending on variety Fertilization: Regular nitrogen feeding during first half of growing season Provide sturdy trellis or arbor for the wide-spreading (up to 30 feet) deciduous vine.

We offer a wide selection of delicious tomato seedlings, from huge beefsteaks to bite-size cherry tomatoes, both heirloom and modern varieties, in a rainbow of colors. All have been trialed by UC Master Gardeners and chosen for great flavor, productivity, and vigor.Public Tomato TrialIn addition to the…

A male Annas hummingbird can't resist Saliva clevelandii Pozo Blue, an easy CA native. This plant looks best with fall pruning. Photo: Bob Mauceli Native plants are easy to grow so long as you don't overdo it with soil amendments or other unnecessary additions.

Today there are more choices than ever when it comes to lawn and lawn alternatives. If you like the look and feel of a conventional lawn, there are even some lower-water choices available.