tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58106950377499967002024-03-19T10:57:41.494-07:00Lois Miller's GreenspeakGarden wisdom, concerns, musings and interesting tidbits.Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.comBlogger75125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-65949123762225763552024-01-22T16:45:00.000-08:002024-02-27T12:47:31.178-08:00<p><span style="font-size: large;"> Looking Forward to Spring</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDbzpf-2e-qcSVo1wFMC8VPuhD9GvSA_ciDViiRs4FatJGt97FoYMByflhBmuI5xLxY7m9qDCLXQeBwX-nD1IJz3IFKpiG0jiPJDymudd78gOLezfIrejUp8igdAoLvtgmJmNDptLiEIkXqSZB_8e60jeqOQcQMGePbwu2964q9e3Usxy1hqDzZ39zQ/s1448/7CF0BA2E-DE4A-4685-9F7F-A63A5A6C5567-COLLAGE.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1448" data-original-width="1448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDbzpf-2e-qcSVo1wFMC8VPuhD9GvSA_ciDViiRs4FatJGt97FoYMByflhBmuI5xLxY7m9qDCLXQeBwX-nD1IJz3IFKpiG0jiPJDymudd78gOLezfIrejUp8igdAoLvtgmJmNDptLiEIkXqSZB_8e60jeqOQcQMGePbwu2964q9e3Usxy1hqDzZ39zQ/s320/7CF0BA2E-DE4A-4685-9F7F-A63A5A6C5567-COLLAGE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Almost time for these beauties to start blooming- I love them! Pretty much any type of flowering bulbs.<p></p><p>But its not about bulbs that I am writing today. I wanted to let readers know that I am going to be launching a new version of Lois Miller's Greenspeak on WordPress <a href="https://www.loismillersgreenspeak.com">https://www.loismillersgreenspeak.com</a>. Wordpress allows many more features than blogger and there is going to be a big expansion of the blog and more website features. </p><p><b>I am still working on the new site so be aware some of the features are not in place yet.</b></p><p>Wordpress is supposed to be easy to use but its taking me quite awhile to learn and use its super loaded drop down menus, editors, plug-ins etc.............. I am way more comfortable with plants!</p><p>I retired last spring- May 2023 so thought I would invest some time in blogging more productively and working on the Etsy site I have with my daughters. Should be fun to see what we can come up with.</p><p>I look forward to launching the new site and sharing my lifelong passion for our outdoor spaces and love of handicarts!</p><p><br /></p>Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-9443447395655423842020-05-24T14:33:00.000-07:002020-05-24T14:33:39.919-07:00Fire Features and Outdoor Heating<br />
One of the most popular trends at the moment is the installation of a fire pit. The notion of gathering around a warm, glowing fire is very appealing for evening entertaining.<br />
This can be accomplished with several different options. The first consideration is fuel type: wood burning, natural gas or propane. Running a natural gas line can be expensive and hard to run if your paving is already installed. However, if you are just re-doing your landscape area and the ground is<br />
clear of obstructions then running the gas line is a great way to go. Gas is clean burning and<br />
easy to use plus relatively low cost to run. Wood burning is lovely but affects the air quality and it<br />
is somewhat of a hassle to obtain wood or gather it. Any wood burning fire pit should have a spark<br />
arresting screen.<br />
Propane is a low cost option and the portable tanks last fairly well. Most prefab. fire pits use<br />
propane, but may have an option to hook up to a gas line also. Occasionally, you will find a unit that uses butane. These are not always a good option as butane isn't as readily available, the tanks are small, and empty quickly.<br />
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Normally, fire pits are lined with fire proof stone, block or brick and have a raised edge so kids and<br />
adults don't fall into the area. The low wall or edge around the unit acts as a foot rest, seat or<br />
place to set food and drinks. (see examples to follow).<br />
The exterior of the wall can be stone, block (stuccoed or veneered with stone), brick or<br />
even wood, as the inside has the fire proof brick. The Cap of the wall should be also fireproof-<br />
stone, brick, cast concrete or interlocking pavers.<br />
I like to set the height of the fire pit at 14-16" off patio level to be below seat height, so that you can see the fire and rest feet on edge.<br />
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The fire table is another interesting concept for a fire feature. These are normally at dining table<br />
height and have a center burner powered by a propane tank below (in a housing). These units don't give off much heat but are a fun dining experience.<br />
Both the fire pit and the fire table have the option of a cover for the fire area so the table and pit<br />
can act as a regular piece of furniture.<br />
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Fireplaces built outdoors are lovely and make a backdrop for the garden. This is a very pricey option and not as easy to gather around for more than a few people.<br />
They are custom built but there are some prefab. units available (they can be set on built in hearths) that lower the cost. These run on natural gas or propane and have a "faux" chimney- they vent out the side<br />
or back. I have included photos to follow.<br />
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There are some fabulous combinations for fire and water features that I have included too.<br />
These are really pretty by swimming pools and patio areas. The fire features and water features<br />
are normally self contained so one can be set inside the other! Cool! These run on natural gas or propane and the water feature is electric. Plumbing is in a separate housing.<br />
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The other option for outdoor heating are portable or mounted heaters. Many restaurants have these and homes have the option also. Most of the stand heaters can be moved and have a space for the propane tank, while the bar shaped mounted heaters can be electric, natural gas or less commonly- propane.<br />
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The concept of heating the outside world is fairly flawed as the heat dissipates quickly.<br />
Seating should be close- with in 2-3' of the unit and you should be prepared for uneven distribution of heat.<br />
The ambiance is more the point of fire features and entertainment value.<div> Heaters tend to heat the head and shoulders well while leaving the legs and ankles open to drafts. A lap rug or blanket might be just the thing for the lower body!</div><div><br /></div><div>Fire features and heaters should be used with caution and need to follow all city rules and regulations.</div><div>Gas and Electrical lines should be installed by licensed professionals. And custom units need skilled</div><div>craftsman also. Enjoy safely and stay warm!<br />
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Prefabricated Fireplace with custom veneer and hearth or seat. Also a prefab. and hearth set in place.<br />
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Prefabricated Fireplace- notice the fire jewels inside the fire area. Very pretty<br />
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Custom double sided fireplace. Gorgeous, but according to home owner, not a very good<br />
source of heat.<br />
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This is a prefabricated fire bowl. Nice shape and look but edge is narrow for setting things on.<br />
Below is a prefabricated fire pit with propane tank hidden in base. Available through American<br />
Leisure Patio.<br />
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Custom built fire pit and seat wall. Tile cap and face band with stuccoed block base<br />
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Custom built in fire pit with stone cap. Nice height and look.<br />
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Examples of fire tables. Propane tank is hidden in base.<br />
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Now here is an interesting unit for the rustic garden! Fun that is space conservative and unusual.<br />
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Beautiful Bougainvillea draped over a custom built fireplace with southwest look.<br />
Stuccoed block with cast concrete seat cap.<br />
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Electric bar heaters mounted in patio cover and arbor<br />
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Movable propane outdoor space heaters<br />
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Examples of fire features combined with water features<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rA0HC90I5TvqYlSRFagPHqHXgySYtF0RXqg2NUi2ygs6EZEHMMT9T9Vqy1by5MMkuSZGgj1MRbJ7S4JZgXaxMTV24QLw0wDjtb1glSGT0BPQ39paq1SsYSxxOEWKx35RDceIL32WnpI/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rA0HC90I5TvqYlSRFagPHqHXgySYtF0RXqg2NUi2ygs6EZEHMMT9T9Vqy1by5MMkuSZGgj1MRbJ7S4JZgXaxMTV24QLw0wDjtb1glSGT0BPQ39paq1SsYSxxOEWKx35RDceIL32WnpI/s320/37CEDD98-B23B-45C2-9B02-15F3573C4410-4332-000002ECEC9D666C.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxmGDIaYbgEpPZZ3Q6na8nCEVYrMy1vPSs77t05TtAZ_vs0P87T1Ym9kiAIlCbNlYpb_WF1xs9Sz7NPF4GGFXh5wzJTpiBUOEyuWitzUFArPgo4c50KSF9UCDBux1rfdXhmU5HWzyc-s4/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxmGDIaYbgEpPZZ3Q6na8nCEVYrMy1vPSs77t05TtAZ_vs0P87T1Ym9kiAIlCbNlYpb_WF1xs9Sz7NPF4GGFXh5wzJTpiBUOEyuWitzUFArPgo4c50KSF9UCDBux1rfdXhmU5HWzyc-s4/s320/57ABC0BC-593F-4159-8795-0DB9665478F3-4332-000002ED063C6613.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">See also my patio furniture blog for other examples</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYwflL_3LWugFGxDD7bK53WAX7mF_WAZh_r1IjGF28RZjdNTipzEripnohvzjyXKte3IPjtXEUkjiSk2eujEma5cNCHx66l_uzl_6JEQe8m7yshNwbw4K_XhynQxm98TyFk9G85fljx1k/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYwflL_3LWugFGxDD7bK53WAX7mF_WAZh_r1IjGF28RZjdNTipzEripnohvzjyXKte3IPjtXEUkjiSk2eujEma5cNCHx66l_uzl_6JEQe8m7yshNwbw4K_XhynQxm98TyFk9G85fljx1k/s320/94EDD180-B18D-4825-9CAB-D2C6F05A7BD4-4332-000002EC12C2284E.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-85000338247444618582020-04-13T11:58:00.000-07:002020-04-13T11:58:27.629-07:00Tomben TwerlsIn 2013 I started to develop a cartoon character just for fun. I got busy with work for many years and stuck him in a file. With the need to shelter in place it gave me a lot of time to catch up on work and home repair plus take up some of my creative projects again. I used to have lots of hobbies but modern life seems to schedule out any free time so hobbies fell by the wayside.<br />
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On Easter Sunday 2020 I launched a facebook page for my cartoon "Tomben Twerls" (page is under this name and is for public view). I wanted to invite my blog readers to join the page if desired and enjoy the adventures of Tomben.<br />
He is a wood sprite and is 5" tall. He lives in the woodland near residential areas and interacts with insects, wildlife and the occasional domesticated pet.<br />
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I have posted some of the first entries from the facebook page and will add some more to the blog occasionally.<br />
This seems like a super time to have some creative fun, revisit lost ideas and share a laugh with friends, family and the community.<br />
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Cheers................Lois<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-472106880492992712020-04-11T15:50:00.001-07:002020-04-11T15:56:16.820-07:00Shading Patio AreasLiving in the San Francisco Bay Area means lots of sun almost year round. Some patios are even hot and sunny in the winter here! Depends on the orientation, house walls blocking wind or adjacent structures reflecting heat, but its pretty common. So its handy to have a ready area of shade for most patios unless overhanging trees give good shade.<br />
We have even installed patio covers because of trees! The dropage of a live oak or silk tree is no joke. They can drop quite a bit just in one day.<br />
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Photos to follow<br />
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There are some various solutions to adding shade to patios. The most common and movable is an umbrella. A prefabricated item that is movable and of varied cost. Umbrellas normally need a base-<br />
also movable and should be sized to the diameter of the umbrella. The downfall of the umbrella is the<br />
small area of shade and the center pole. Manufacturers have worked on this quite a bit and now they have something called a cantilevered umbrella. I call them hanging umbrellas because when they are<br />
down they hang off the overhead arm of this type of umbrella (see photo). These types of umbrellas can be large- 10-13' and don't have a center pole but instead have an overhead arm, as I mentioned,<br />
that the canopy hangs from. They have a very large base so we often put a sleeve in the patio/an ground tube to inset the pole and avoid the base.<br />
Best to put you umbrella down in winds and store inside or in shed for the winter.<br />
Most can be tilted to help with afternoon setting sun. Many have lights in them which is a great<br />
feature. The canopies of best quality Umbrellas are made from Sunbrella fabric. Big box stores carry umbrellas of many types. You can get a good quality type from Frontgate, Patio World, American Leisure Patio or similar high end dealers.<br />
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Another popular item for patio shade has been the shade sail. This is a triangle of Sunbrella fabric<br />
mounted to the home or posts and tensioned to not sag. These have a nice contemporary look and<br />
can be taken down in winter. They are available from awning companies and online. They can overlap and most are custom made so if you want to play with the shape that is possible.<br />
I think it is best to run a vinyl coated cable to eye bolts in wall or post and put a tensioner on the<br />
cable. hang the sail from the eye bolts too and use cables to give extra points of clipping sail edges.<br />
This also allows you to string lights on the cables as desired.<br />
These can be quite large and with multiples you can cover a lot of area. They are also a good temporary solution until trees fill in for shade, or as noted above to protect patio from tree droppings.<br />
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The next option for shade is a retractable awning. These are mounted above the doors and windows<br />
on the house walls or on top of the eave on the roof. The biggest advantages that I can see of an awning is the absence of posts. Arbors have posts that can impede layout of furniture on a patio<br />
so not having posts is helpful. I also like the ability to roll out the awning a few feet or all the way.<br />
This allows light into the rooms. Awnings now have bending arms much like our elbows. The awnings can go out to 12-14'. The distributor can provide the width on the house wall as needed for<br />
coverage. Some folks don't like the look of them so you need to decide for yourself. The awnings<br />
should be retracted in wind and winter. The have a housing on the wall for winter. They are available as electric or manual. Save yourself some money and get the manual so you don't need to replace the<br />
motor.<br />
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In my business we build a lot of Arbors- also know as trellis', pergolas, or patio covers.<br />
They are normally custom built on site from wood but not always. Some are prefabricated kits and<br />
vinyl and metal are also available for awnings. A traditional Arbor is a slatted wood roof that lets<br />
air circulate. They can be natural wood i.e. Cedar or Redwood sealed or painted to protect the wood.<br />
Do not leave as raw wood due to the UV and weather deterioration- Arbors become unsightly and wear out quickly if left untreated.<br />
Pressure treated wood should not be used as it doesn't accept seal or paint, and is also not good<br />
quality or good looking. Folks have become very fond of having solid roofs outside so sometimes<br />
we will use flat plastic sheeting on top (from Tap Plastics). These sheets aren't really visible and do<br />
not yellow. They are translucent. The arbor should have a slight pitch for drainage. There are still some fiberglass wavy patio cover panels around or the aluminium version but that's pretty dated.<br />
Prefabricated kits can be good if the materials are sturdy and good quality. Keep in mind all arbors should have anchors drilled into the patio or set with a pier when the patio is built. An arbor can be tipped by strong winds, people hanging things on them or other action.<br />
There are codes and conditions set on placement of arbors in yards by the city and usually require a permit so be fore warned.<br />
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labels and notes below photos<br />
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Arbor kit with sliding awning cloth shades<br />
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Typical Redwood Arbor stain-sealed in a dark walnut color<br />
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Small Arbor will have a vine growing over it for shade<br />
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Cool Umbrella with flat side to set against a wall<br />
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Typical Umbrella in a table- pretty small for that table!<br />
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Shade Sails supported to steel posts. These give afternoon shade to this area<br />
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Nice example of alternate shapes for these Shade Sails<br />
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Quite a few commercial properties use these. Good example of mounting to building and posts.<br />
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Retractable Awning with good coverage<br />
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This photo shows the support arms of the retractable awning<br />
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This is known as an "eyebrow" awning or window shade. Helpful for those hot windows!\<br />
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Solid Roofed Patio cover (sometimes called a gazebo)- Costco has a similar one too<br />
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Wavy fiberglass panels keep out rain but are kind of a dated look. Nice Arbor<br />
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Some homes have a lot of trouble with the setting sun in the home and patio. This look like its on<br />
a manufactured home but is one solution. We use outdoor drop blinds on Arbors to do the same thing.<br />
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Example of a vinyl arbor. This one may have opening and shutting louvers as the roof.<br />
An Australian Company markets their louvered arbors in the U.S. and they are at a lot of<br />
home shows- theirs have metal louvers.<br />
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Hope these notes on shade structures are of some help. Its one of those items that makes the patio<br />
easier to use in Summer and helps us avoid the direct sun and protect our skin and eyes.<br />
On my projects there is usually multiple solutions we can use and we narrow it down by look, cost, maintenance and space.<br />
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One last photo of a cantilevered umbrella- this one is 13'. They come with the valence on the edge or without. The Umbrella pictures were taken at American Leisure Patio in San Jose (they have multiple locations).<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-10526788678320093962020-04-08T12:52:00.000-07:002020-04-09T09:32:00.298-07:00Plants for Shaded AreasDeep shade is always a challenge for finding and maintaining plants that will survive in low light.<br />
Plants need light to photosynthesize so they can't do very dark places at all but can pick up<br />
enough filtered or reflected light even in deep shade if they are adapted to that type of environment.<br />
Even some plants that started out in sunny locations and then are shaded over time by buildings or<br />
trees may survive. I see quite a few gardens like this, where the light changes over the years but some of the original shrubs remain.<br />
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There are a couple of factors, besides light, that can affect the plants- struggling to get water and nutrients where tree roots dominate the soil areas, dry shade where eaves of overhanging buildings<br />
block rain, falling leaves burying the plants, and some times toxic excretions from trees like Privets, Eucalyptus or Walnut that keep plants from growing around them.<br />
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Extra fertilizing and root pruning of the trees can help, Thinning the canopies of the trees (but not topping or severely cutting them), installing irrigation to supplement rain, and avoiding trees with growth inhibitors or using alternates under them like mulch or pea gravel. Plants in large pots set into the garden work well but should have regular watering- pots dry out easily.<br />
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I am including some photos of plants that have been helpful in areas of deep shade. These are picked for the area of my business in Santa Clara and San Mateo County in California so check zones for your area if you live in another county or state.<br />
Names are below the photos.<br />
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Aucuba longifoilia 'salicifolia'- willow leaf leaf Aucuba. 3-6' evergreen shrubs<br />
This hybrid isn't very common.<br />
Snails will eat the leaves so use Sluggo, pet safe bait, or a copper tape at base.<br />
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Aucuba 'Variegata'- gold dust plant. Not my favorite variegation but can add light to a shaded area.<br />
There are lots of hybrids of varied size, leaf type and variegation. 4-6' high<br />
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Aspidistra elatior- cast iron plant. Used a lot indoors or in atriums. Great in pots under trees or inground. Perennial 2' high<br />
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Clivia miniata- kaffir lily. The orange is the most available. This plant wants no direct sun.<br />
Perennial 18"-24" high. A great potted plant. Bait for snails with Sluggo.<br />
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Orange Clivia<br />
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Coleus hybrids. Great in pots or in ground in rich soil for summer and fall color<br />
They are annuals so need to be planted each year in early summer. Lovely though and I miss them when we don't have them. I have had luck taking cuttings and rooting them in glasses of water over the winter. This year I brought a potted one into the kitchen- it will go back on the deck as it<br />
warms up. Heights vary and there are many leaf color options. They do bloom with a stalk with<br />
small blue-purple flowers but it is the foliage that is eye catching.<br />
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Begonia- tuberous type. Best in pots for summer color. Save the tubers and they can be replanted the next year or set the pots in a place where they don't get too soggy in winter and they will grow back<br />
as it warms up. Gorgeous colors on these and big leaves so kind of a tropical look. 12-18" high<br />
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Pellaea rotundifolia- button fern. Despite their reputation ferns don't always do well in deep shade.<br />
I am showing the easiest and toughest of the bunch. Button fern is 8-12" high<br />
Ferns are perennials.<br />
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Nephrolepis cordifolia- Southern Sword Fern. Easy and spreads a bit. Cut off dead fronds at base<br />
to keep them looking good. They can be divided if they get too crowded. 18-24" high<br />
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Asparagus Fern- there are several types and are super easy. Be careful, they have interior small thorns. 12-24" high<br />
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Campanula murialis- serbian bellflower A great ground cover and the best woodland ground cover that I have found. These are perennial and its good to trim the flowers after bloom.<br />
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Camellia japonica. Large shrubs from 3'-15' or more. Absolutely hardy once established. Will bloom better with some light but survive well in deep shade too. Clean up flowers as they drop to avoid petal blight or flowers getting brown spots on. They bloom in early spring or late winter.<br />
Usually red, pink or white colors and there are lots of flower shapes and looks.<br />
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A smaller Camellia- this is a Camellia sasanqua and blooms in fall. The plants are<br />
1'-6' depending on hybrid. These are available as espalier too (grown flat on a trellis).<br />
The flower are delicate and smaller than the Camellia japonica.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdmfWhs4WQuIT3IFzIX85sGvetXInRC2HtVN1DIE0NbDpYaILgPJax2iHQveECoFqa6mf6tESbPL7LMDZtnNqWJtgWSd8cCbbXlyihWTy25YusTqKK2xoRklhJnsf5zS7KEMRNnmLFfx4/s1600/IMG_0277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdmfWhs4WQuIT3IFzIX85sGvetXInRC2HtVN1DIE0NbDpYaILgPJax2iHQveECoFqa6mf6tESbPL7LMDZtnNqWJtgWSd8cCbbXlyihWTy25YusTqKK2xoRklhJnsf5zS7KEMRNnmLFfx4/s320/IMG_0277.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fatsia japonica -false aralia. Shown in the sun but grows in deep shade too.<br />
They get about 4-7' tall and are very resilient.</td></tr>
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Osmanthus 'goshiki'- holly leaf Osmanthus. The new growth is pink! I didn't think I would like this plant but have grown to love its unique quality in the garden. It grows very slowly so doesn't overwhelm the borders. It gets 3'-6'. It doesn't seem to bloom but that is not unusual in shaded areas<br />
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Osmanthus fragrans. Gorgeous big shrub with fragrant flowers and deep green leaves. They are great screening shrubs and grow 6-10'. They are evergreen shrubs. You may have heard of Osmanthus tea.<br />
Not sure this is the species for tea but its fun to relate the drink to the Genus.<br />
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This is also Osmanthus fragrans- just showing the size for you. Again this shows it in sun but<br />
these plants prefer sheltering.<br />
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These photos are all of Sarcococca humilis hookeriana. A lovely ground covering<br />
shrub for shaded areas. This is an evergreen shrub 12-24" tall usually. I have seen it taller where it was crowded with other plants or buildings.<br />
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Lovely leathery foliage. There is also Sarcococca ruscilfolia which is a 3-4' version of this plant<br />
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Their tiny flowers have a great spicy fragrance. Hard to see though.<br />
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These are a few good choices that I have tried and tested over the years. Check Sunset Western Garden Book for watering and soil requirements. This is not meant to be a comprehensive list just some helpful suggestions for hard areas to find plants for.<br />
When planting under trees its super important to dig large holes, trimming back tree roots with a sharp tool and filling holes with clean topsoil and compost. Keep up with fertilizing to help the plants compete with the trees.<br />
If using pots- use large ones as they don't dry out as easily and have more room for roots.<br />
Pots 24"-30" high and wide are great. I like Miracle Gro potting soil or moisture retention potting soil. These products have fertilizer for one year built into the mix. Drainage is important so make sure pots have one to 3 holes in the bottom.<br />
Below the eaves along north facing house walls the soil can be terrible. Ammend extensively or replace the soil that comes out of the planting holes with clean topsoil and compost. Make sure the plants get watered in winter as the eaves can keep the areas dry.<br />
Mulch plantings with shredded bark and pull the mulch away from the plant crowns to avoid crown rot. 2" of mulch is good. This will also give the area a more finished look. The mulch breaks down over time and adds to the soil ammendment.<br />
Ask gardeners not to blow off the mulch and not to blow in planted areas more than once or twice a year. Those blowers wreck the low plantings and soil structure. They harm native bees also.<br />
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Have fun working in the shade as the weather warms up. Its a great retreat!<br />
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one last photo- Brunnera 'jack frost'. 18" tall and can spread by self seeding. These<br />
like moist soil that is rich in organic matter so aren't for every garden but wanted to<br />
include photo as a parting pic.<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-27597058057105592512020-04-06T15:10:00.004-07:002020-04-06T15:10:46.174-07:00Annie's Annuals and Perennials Nursery Its not to often that I am confounded on the ID of plants but that is the case with quite a few plants at<br />
Annie's Annuals and Perennials Nursery. The nursery truly sells some unusual hybrids and varieties. Many that I haven't come across before. Of course they have hundreds of familiar plants as well and so many favorites!<br />
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Another very unusual thing about this nursery is that they grow and sell almost everything in the<br />
catalog and nursery using 4" pots. This is common for small plants but they even have starts of large perennials, shrubs and even some trees in the small, handleable pots.<br />
They do a large mail/online business from catalogs so this may be the source of this practice.<br />
I appreciate it because I can start plants in ground or in pots and let them grow. Also gives me a chance to test out a lot of things. Due to the large population of wildlife in our area, I hate to loose a 5 gallon shrub to Deer and/or Gophers!<br />
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The stock of the nursery is not limited to Annuals and Perennials- they also have some bulbs (as starts), native and ornamental shrubs, vines, and the occasional tree.<br />
Their demonstration gardens are fabulous and a great combination of color, leaf texture, size range and weirdness. I love the free forms of the beds and all the butterflies flitting around enjoying themselves.<br />
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The staff is wonderful and very attentive- not always the case at nurseries. They have been open in the pandemic as it is open air and they have safety precautions in place. You can also order online.<br />
They are a grower so you may see their plants in local nurseries too.<br />
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Here are a few pics I took in June 2019 and April 1, 2020:<br />
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one of the greeters at the nursery!<br />
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exuberant plantings to give idea of plants eventual size<br />
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another demonstration bed with a lovely combination of colors<br />
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price list in nursery from April 2020- may be different online and at retail nurseries<br />
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they have succulents too! lots and lots<br />
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Floribunga! This is the exit side of the entry sign. So cool<br />
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The nursery is located at:<br />
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740 Market Ave.<br />
Richmond, Ca. 94801<br />
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phone: 1-888-266-4370<br />
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If you are not familiar with Richmond, it is not exactly the high rent district. The nursery is located in a mixed residential and commercial area. Its a safe area but not too appealing.<br />
I applaud the nursery for bringing some vitality to the area. Plus color!<br />
They have a good parking area and Terra Patio Furniture Outlet shares the parking.<br />
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If you enjoy outings to nurseries and beautiful examples of planting beds this is a great stop.<br />
I was overjoyed to find that they have tons of drought tolerant plants, so this a great resource for the drought stricken Bay Area. All the plants are labeled with clear information, zones and watering<br />
requirements. Cross reference with Sunset Western Garden Book for your location as needed.<br />
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I have had good luck growing many of the plants that I purchased directly from them or their<br />
plants distributed through other nurseries, so am very happy to feature Annie's Annuals and Perennials on the blog.<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-15096736763362353212020-04-01T12:28:00.001-07:002020-04-01T12:37:33.534-07:00Patio Furniture and AccessoriesA patio without comfortable and appealing furniture is almost unusable in my opinion.<br />
Having cushy chairs, a footstool or ottoman (or 2) plus an appropriately sized dining table with comfortable chairs makes the difference between using and not using the space.<br />
With the availability of patio furniture and price variety in the market, there is no reason not to<br />
invest in good pieces of outdoor furniture that you love. Junk the old plastic stuff and run down<br />
wooden tables for sleek, refined and ergonomic modern furniture.<br />
<br />
This was a revelation at our own home many, many years ago when I bought our first really nice piece of garden furniture. A glider (rocking bench) made from powdered coated metal by Homecrest.<br />
I still have the glider and it is as nice today and works as well as it did when I bought it over 20 years ago. After purchasing the glider, I would go to the patio furniture store each year in February (the off season) and buy one or two more pieces until we had a full set of dining and lounging furniture.<br />
The cushions are pricey so those took awhile to accumulate but the better quality type have lasted very well. I would recommend putting them indoors in rainy weather and for the winter.<br />
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Here are a few photos I took at American Leisure Patio in San Jose on Stevens Creek Boulevard:<br />
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Nice cantilevered umbrella for shade. Another thing to consider while setting up the patio. Lack of shade makes as an area very difficult to use. Umbrellas can also give a sense of privacy from overlooking two story homes. Sometimes the feeling of being private, cloistered or cozy can add to the appeal of sitting outdoors.<br />
This photo also has an L shaped outdoor couch which is a comfortable conversation area and somewhat space conservative. The neutral colored cushions are good as they don't show fading as<br />
much. Most best brand cushions are Sunbrella fabric- it is of excellent quality for outdoor<br />
areas.<br />
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What an awesome fire table! It has the propane tank in a housing below or can be hooked up to natural gas from a gas line. Fire pits, fire tables, fire bowls and fire places are a hugely popular trend now.<br />
Most Fire pits, fir bowls and tables can have a cover, like this one, to make it useful as a regular table.<br />
The chairs are the powder coated metal type and some have the ability to rock back, which can be very relaxing.<br />
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Rather than a built in bar, a tall table like this one can be great for guests to share a drink. These chairs have tight weave outdoor fabric cover so they actually don't need cushions. This is good for dining chairs too- eliminating the cost of having to purchase cushions. They hose off well too!<br />
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A triangular table! Interesting option for a tight spot.<br />
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This is a teak framed couch but the table is actually metal painted to look like wood. I really love the color combo here! One disadvantage to ordering patio furniture online is the inability to try out the<br />
furniture. This is a lovely couch but I wonder how comfortable it is? Would it fit my frame?<br />
Is it nice at first then hard over time? Anyway, just something to consider when looking at furniture<br />
in catalogs or online.<br />
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I am all about circles and curves! Love this Fire bowl and wicker resin couch. Even like the coffee colored cushions. The resin wicker holds up well and comes in varied colors.<br />
These circle couches are pretty big so they need ample space. The disadvantage to a fire bowl is it has a narrow edge, so you can't set things like food or glasses on the edge, like you can with a fire pit or fire table.<br />
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Hope this information on patio furniture and accessories is helpful and encourages you to explore the options for your home patio space or deck area. Lots of big box stores, nurseries, patio and garden stores, hardware and import stores carry patio furniture and garden items. They are of varied quality but the price may be good enough you can replace items easily. Above all look for items that you really like the look of and are comfortable. This will draw you and your guests out of the home and make patio living a reality.<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-16224608212192266702020-04-01T11:19:00.000-07:002020-04-01T11:19:51.820-07:00Queen Wilhelmina Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I had a lovely walk a few weeks ago in this small garden at Golden Gate Park. And yes, that is a windmill in the background! Located near the Great Highway, Ocean Beach and The Beach Chalet in San Francisco, this is an easy stop in Spring and less crowded than summer months.<br />
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Nice combination of Yellow Pansies and Red Tulips! Best to Refrigerate Tulip bulbs in fall for 4-6 weeks before planting in late October or early winter. This gives them the winter chill they need.<br />
Grow in pots or in ground. They don't always grow back or bloom in following years but they are a<br />
fun project anyway. They tend to rot out in the heavy clay soil in most of the bay area and the climate is pretty warm for them. You can try digging them up and repeating chill in the fridge- especially if they are in pots.<br />
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Iceland Poppies- a great spring annual and good companion to bulbs.<br />
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Super use of contrasting colors here! Pansies were always my daughter's favorites and now my Granddaughters! They are right at the height to be child friendly. They are edible too plus gorgeous colors.<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-44556074540141998252020-03-30T10:09:00.000-07:002020-03-30T10:10:26.629-07:00BEES!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Its hard to underestimate the value of European Honeybees and Native Bees as pollinators<br />
in our gardens, fields, orchards and wild areas. Above is a Bumblebee gathering pollen from<br />
a Lavender flower.<br />
I get a lot of comments from client's about bees- either friendly or fearful. Everything from-<br />
"I don't want any of those bee plants in my garden" or "I'm afraid or bees" (or their children) or<br />
"I don't want to attract insects"or "I am allergic to bees so don't want to attract them"<br />
to the opposite-<br />
"I want to locate a bee hive in the garden. Where should we put it" or "what plants can we use to<br />
help the bees" or "I don't see any bees anymore"<br />
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Here are a few answers and comments on having bees in the garden. First and most importantly, I try to encourage folk to not be afraid of bees. Unlike wasps- bees are normally very docile, and non<br />
threatening. They are totally focused on their task of gathering pollen and returning to the hive.<br />
Being stung usually happens when a bee is accidentally touched and feels threatened or a hive is<br />
disturbed, even then bees don't always sting. I have spent many thousands of hours working in the gardens- pruning, weeding, planting and maintaining areas with bees all around and within a few inches of my face! I actually haven't ever been stung doing these things. My only stings were at a park where I was walking in sandals and scared a bee at a clover flower, when the wind blew a bee<br />
into the car and it hit my arm and when I turned on a hose tap without looking and grabbed a bee.<br />
None of these things were aggressive acts on the part of the bee just fear of getting squished.<br />
Anyway, enough of that- you get the idea and I must also say that I have really enjoyed watching the<br />
bees in the garden as they gather pollen- I even had entire school groups out in the school garden watching the bees gathering pollen from California Poppies. What a blast for the kids and I to have that time together with the bees!<br />
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Plants that especially draw bees are varied and many, but some of the best are herbs such as<br />
Lavender (as seen above), Oregano, Rosemary, and Thyme. You get the added benefit of having<br />
the herbs to use and the fragrance of them. Planting an herb border along the edge of an orchard is<br />
an excellent two fold benefit. Obviously, flowering plants are the key to having bees come into<br />
the garden and these can be part of the landscape or especially planted for pollinators. If you want<br />
to avoid bees the opposite is needed- plants that are non-blooming or have inconspicuous flowers.<br />
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Locating hives in gardens requires a bit of space but is totally doable even in an average sized garden<br />
(approx. 30'x60'). I would locate the hive in an area that is away from doors and gates, not totally<br />
shaded and the garden should have some flowering plants and trees. The bees will fly out into the<br />
neighborhood, of course, but its great to have pollen close to the home hive!<br />
Avoid use of pesticide sprays in the area and be aware of bringing plants treated with neonaticides into the garden (ask nursery person or see labels for this).<br />
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I feel a great affinity for bees as I to love flowers and are drawn to them, am industrious, loyal,<br />
have a clear life goal and crave sweet things! Helping folks with their gardens and adding<br />
flowering plants gives the customers joy and color plus gives the bees a source of pollen to sustain them.<br />
The trend to use plantings in place of lawn has really enriched the ecosystem for bees, butterflies,<br />
birds and other insects- and people too!<br />
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Here are a few other resources I found that have helpful information:<br />
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There are also some Facebook groups dedicated to bees. I have the Native Bees of North America page and it is super fun.<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-11068809909966972382020-03-28T10:57:00.000-07:002020-04-13T16:02:01.110-07:00It takes a Pandemic!<br />
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I have been so busy the past few years that I haven't had any time to work on the blog. Well, we are sheltering in place for weeks on end and thought it was the perfect opportunity to add some articles and notes to the blog. I am excited at the prospect that folks will have a bit of time for rest,<br />
contemplation, family and - Gardening!<br />
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Luckily, we have had some rain and it is a lovely time to be out in the garden. I have been pulling weeds, applying fertilizer (water in well), adding some plants and doing general repairs and clean up.<br />
It is not a good time for rototilling when the soil is very wet as it destroys the soil structure but<br />
spading and planting individual plants is o.k., if the soil is damp but not soggy.<br />
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Weeding is a lot better now as they pull out a little easier! Depending on the weed of course.<br />
Best to weed the garden before they finish flowering and let go of seeds to avoid having<br />
a deluge next year! If you remember in fall to apply a pre-emergent i.e. Preen, Ronstar, Ortho<br />
Weed Preventer etc..................repeating on a regular basis through spring, you can avoid quite<br />
a few of the weeds that seed in. I actually don't use this in our garden as we have flowers and<br />
bulbs that grow from seeds and tubers/bulbs so the pre-emergent (which kills emerging plants from seeds) isn't a good idea here. It has been great for general landscaping but should be<br />
avoided in vegetable gardens where you are seeding in veggies. It is unknown how bulbs are<br />
affected so don't take the chance with them.<br />
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The climate is definitely warming, as we know, and I see the results of this in my work everyday.<br />
The lack of freeze has meant we have flourishing sub-tropicals and even tropicals in our<br />
gardens here in the SF Bay Area. There has been a huge interest in succulents too, as they<br />
normally would get freeze damage in our area but now not so much. Rodents and insect pests<br />
have also shown a population gain as the hard winters subside.<br />
The gist of all this is that more drought tolerant gardens are finally having a gain in popularity and<br />
a wide range of plants are available that weren't in our plant "palette" before. The nursery folk and growers have kept up with the trend and there are more and more drought friendly and interesting plants available. This makes my job very fun! Introducing new and colorful hybrids to client's and gardens is a blast.<br />
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As the weather improves, I will spray the poison oak and noxious scotch broom (a very invasive and rapidly spreading weed). A yearly task that keep the wilderness at bay and help with future issues. Remember to spray your deciduous fruit trees with dormant oil spray just before the flower buds open.<br />
Clear old fruit and leaves from below trees and weed around them to avoid diseases and pests.<br />
Citrus, gardenias, and plants that have yellowing of the foliage benefit from a good dose (or 2)<br />
of chelated iron (soluble iron). This will green up the leaves and help the plants vigor.<br />
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I have saved up some topics for the blog so will add some more articles- finally!<br />
Stay safe, healthy and have fun in the garden!<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-82607314007905024182018-03-07T13:03:00.000-08:002018-03-07T13:07:36.561-08:00Mountain States Wholesale NurseryA couple of years ago I met Wendy Proud at a contractors expo in Sacramento.<br />
Wendy is the regional representative for Mountain States Wholesale Nursery in Glendale, Arizona<br />
The nursery grows and produces extremely drought tolerant plants then Distributes them to Wholesale and retail nurseries in our area.<br />
Expounding the virtues and abilities of her products Wendy made me a convert. I am thrilled to have this nursery as a resource and happily receive email updates on plants, shows and maintenance etc .......... through the capability of this amazing lady.<br />
Wanted to pass on the website for your interest:<br />
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Www.mswn.com<br />
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Check it out- will also post link in this text. Enjoy<a href="http://www.mswn.com/" target="_blank">Nursery resource</a><br />
<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-5290711679440781152016-10-02T13:58:00.001-07:002016-10-05T21:48:46.234-07:00Taking a tour of UCDavis Water Wise Demonstration GardensI had a very inspiring visit to the UCDavis Arboretum and Teaching Nursery the other day. The fall weather has just begun and the gardens had gorgeous blooms on the Salvias, Asters, Roses, Epilobium, Erigeron and Scabiosa, to name a few.<br />
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I had not visited the Arboretum before and so this was a wonderful discovery filled with water wise plantings, a vast assortment of foliages and canopies of beautiful mature trees. The Arboretum stretches over several miles along a waterway for hours of walking enjoyment.</div>
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For this visit I limited my exploration to the Teaching Nursery, which was at its best due to the large plant sale to take place over several weekends in October and the first of November, and the Valley Wise Demonstration Garden. These areas are adjacent to the Vet. Medical buildings and corrals along Garrod Drive. (I have included a pic of the sign for reference).</div>
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The hummingbirds and bees were active in the gardens giving a gentle hum and vibrancy to the area.</div>
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Davis, California is very close to Sacramento and is quite hot in summer and gets cold temperatures in the winter so all the plantings need to be both adapted to heat and cold extremes. </div>
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You can see from these photos that there is no lack of lush foliage or blooms due to these factors and the plantings only require watering every 1 to 2 weeks to stay in good condition.</div>
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The Teaching Nursery also has lovely beds of native and drought tolerant shrubs, trees and perennials.</div>
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These areas have some labeling as well as the plants in in the nursery. The sales are held in fall and spring on several weekends for purchase of mostly quart and 1 gallon plants.</div>
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I spent several hours looking over the selection of plant materials and was happy to learn many new varieties and see some of my old friends on the tables.</div>
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This is a great place to stop and have a plant tour, stretch your legs and relax among the leaves and flowers. I also really enjoyed the tribute to Oak trees and woodlands depicted in ceramic mosaics covering seat walls and restroom adjacent to the valley wise garden. What a super project!</div>
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Nice Demonstration planting at the nursery with low water requiring shrubs and perennials</div>
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Teaching Nursery at UCDavis<br />
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Entrance Sign for the Valley Wise Garden in the Arboretum<br />
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Great looking seat wall with the life cycle of the Oaks done in<br />
ceramic mosaics<br />
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Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-35831776975993703892015-02-23T20:06:00.001-08:002015-02-23T20:07:27.010-08:00The Roses of WinterIt may not seem like it but we are still in winter, here in Northern California. The plants are very confused and are already in Full spring bloom!<div> Normally we would have colder temps and in the harshest days of winter our Camellia japonicas are there to cheer us up with their lovely blooms, perfect for bringing into the house to float in flat bowls of water or arrange in bases.</div><div>I like to call them the "roses of winter". Big full blossoms typically in red,pink and white colors or blends of these colors. Camellia japonica is a large shrub measuring up to 10-15' high but easily kept at 6-8' or less. They are very hardy to cold and moderate water but should be in a location with some shade especially from the harsh afternoon sun. Use an acidic soil conditioner when planting as they prefer forest conditions with lots of rich humus (organic matter) for their roots. Fertilize with Camellia-Azalea food in the fall and water in well.</div><div>Once established these shrubs are extremely long lasting and sturdy. Pick up the flower heads as they fall to avoid spots on the petals called petal blight.</div><div>Water your mature shrubs once a week deeply in the warm months. New shrubs should be watered twice a week or more depending on the temperature.</div><div><br></div><div>There are are other species of Camellias which are smaller and bloom in fall but for a great winter bloom check out the japonicas. This is a great time to see them in botanical, residential or public gardens. </div><div><br></div><div>Pictured below are just a few examples of the vast array available.</div><div><div><br></div></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqRHxpA8GeN9mUoW_BzVWpFud3gLqwtRfJkZzDtA-7OOaiIYHjiPrkWREprFt1YJB49PIG8Modlz6ETxaORK0rpjfCAH6_pSQ_oWBXygcUKsfscSgd3n6TdnENOXNkRDSVNPKqFCMFtvI/s640/blogger-image-241872626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqRHxpA8GeN9mUoW_BzVWpFud3gLqwtRfJkZzDtA-7OOaiIYHjiPrkWREprFt1YJB49PIG8Modlz6ETxaORK0rpjfCAH6_pSQ_oWBXygcUKsfscSgd3n6TdnENOXNkRDSVNPKqFCMFtvI/s640/blogger-image-241872626.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlLF39is1pZv0-9lWYnNadv8j3XDfN9WQGBwaajhTVWuC2Pz150n7qpYn_q_8BupC-uZBkrpTGEYG1fpXNBJFTADj7kV6D-BSSMDsMDQQHiou23Q47oPczQtLTPwl2gUR3Q1sZINcDZc/s640/blogger-image--569433530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlLF39is1pZv0-9lWYnNadv8j3XDfN9WQGBwaajhTVWuC2Pz150n7qpYn_q_8BupC-uZBkrpTGEYG1fpXNBJFTADj7kV6D-BSSMDsMDQQHiou23Q47oPczQtLTPwl2gUR3Q1sZINcDZc/s640/blogger-image--569433530.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdsRZ48Q7e0A5PZHpDbTbXfLtjizinOMmLpipyUp00gZXfGBShqWq643Bv65o_4E7-dS3-SQEp-Uf0zCvdtJH35nSrdXpus71c1H2V09Zf48P8rduJptVqAAWB4co6Iyzv7BEeuR3FKfY/s640/blogger-image-693604647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdsRZ48Q7e0A5PZHpDbTbXfLtjizinOMmLpipyUp00gZXfGBShqWq643Bv65o_4E7-dS3-SQEp-Uf0zCvdtJH35nSrdXpus71c1H2V09Zf48P8rduJptVqAAWB4co6Iyzv7BEeuR3FKfY/s640/blogger-image-693604647.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTfSZD7OmrtqrhqINH8oBr6AjLAgepBtadoGNodyr_4RJt2EjrviAhtMfJ32XiEEBiW8XRBjT0RxOi-WIXRskq98upp33d6dzRkNKNlDZ5VXVX9ODbimZEYU1pfHIghYAuGCblIZ0TIY/s640/blogger-image--350917584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTfSZD7OmrtqrhqINH8oBr6AjLAgepBtadoGNodyr_4RJt2EjrviAhtMfJ32XiEEBiW8XRBjT0RxOi-WIXRskq98upp33d6dzRkNKNlDZ5VXVX9ODbimZEYU1pfHIghYAuGCblIZ0TIY/s640/blogger-image--350917584.jpg"></a></div>Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-63502628267013086512015-02-21T19:45:00.001-08:002015-02-21T19:48:39.013-08:00Want a hardy Hibiscus?Although it is tempting to plant a Tropical Hibiscus in our area (Northern and upper Central California) it is not advisable, due to winter cold i.e. freeze and cold snaps. Even the mildest freeze will damage Tropical Hibiscus. Certainly, there are exceptions but for the most part these plants are often better treated as annual potted plants rather than set out into the garden. We will see if global warming changes these comments but for now you may want to try a hardier Hibiscus called "Rose of Sharon" or Hibiscus syriacus.<div>The difference being that Hibiscus syriacus is a deciduous shrub so it can live through the winter as a dormant plant rather than suffering through winter with an abundance of tender leaves.</div><div>There are some beautiful hybrids of this plant with varied sized flowers and colors. It is also fairly low water once it is established. Rose of Sharon is a large plant usually 6-8' tall and can be purchased as a single trunked small tree or as a multi trunked large shrub.</div><div>They have a bit of yellow fall color and lovely small leaves.</div><div>Plant in full sun and in a spot with good air circulation. Water well at first to avoid wilting then taper off water to once or twice a week. Trim only for shape and do not shear, instead selectively prune away foliage that is diseased, dead or in need of clipping.</div><div><br></div><div>Pictured below ar Hibiscus syriacus 'Minerva', 'Diana', and 'Red Heart' (in order shown)</div><div><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimohLs-PdnLFBWRjXwDh4ch6QGxsekABMWgZf1qSiDsHAKQew1VJ9ZiBwNyxaxrpn5Ziq2fJ9EBEG1bh_PhFGPK4ZHM5eRDD2GVXaK_LojwBybrtwxrKhpz80_rZ6mnxKvUVLQJRJJg4k/s640/blogger-image-59906808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimohLs-PdnLFBWRjXwDh4ch6QGxsekABMWgZf1qSiDsHAKQew1VJ9ZiBwNyxaxrpn5Ziq2fJ9EBEG1bh_PhFGPK4ZHM5eRDD2GVXaK_LojwBybrtwxrKhpz80_rZ6mnxKvUVLQJRJJg4k/s640/blogger-image-59906808.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYCkAW7th8o_g9AGFf08lbcXG47M5TwDqJU_khutDNkU6wu8xKWSqbIMqhkGU9AeCFR7ma4hW9S8v6s7lwSc7MHuaEFqXs4gWeAjjhzK7xtKcVfT1GVD1tLc2LFHTqTzEAroHPsD91JU/s640/blogger-image--1986534722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYCkAW7th8o_g9AGFf08lbcXG47M5TwDqJU_khutDNkU6wu8xKWSqbIMqhkGU9AeCFR7ma4hW9S8v6s7lwSc7MHuaEFqXs4gWeAjjhzK7xtKcVfT1GVD1tLc2LFHTqTzEAroHPsD91JU/s640/blogger-image--1986534722.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh30ccIV5PavZDAb6auWe9jPEaWsRp0em18D8LwsKJ8dcacp-xpkWnSDrqGwouC3BIIN8l4TtADxFkWkXrUh7KcnavQu0lViROSzLjiotM_H0c1fbC756VqjtUXGgI3WjHbYVcqwzjNQTM/s640/blogger-image-1751009682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh30ccIV5PavZDAb6auWe9jPEaWsRp0em18D8LwsKJ8dcacp-xpkWnSDrqGwouC3BIIN8l4TtADxFkWkXrUh7KcnavQu0lViROSzLjiotM_H0c1fbC756VqjtUXGgI3WjHbYVcqwzjNQTM/s640/blogger-image-1751009682.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWcL0jOTB-ejPRlMnRFe9hd1vKoprw5MPSNImY7BvYwK2ySHIpcSZLdd1jSGqn-f1fH5QzQLJtsb9k9QUjdousOAZYu6tI_Lo4ImBcbvBA6dgqzutAlo29OxHAdEdN_1q5Q3U1GIYXNI/s640/blogger-image-2114714044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWcL0jOTB-ejPRlMnRFe9hd1vKoprw5MPSNImY7BvYwK2ySHIpcSZLdd1jSGqn-f1fH5QzQLJtsb9k9QUjdousOAZYu6tI_Lo4ImBcbvBA6dgqzutAlo29OxHAdEdN_1q5Q3U1GIYXNI/s640/blogger-image-2114714044.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2W4kpHtlA8__V1TIi7UD-1ssGbRgDdEuIMMJCH1tfDQWU3idZA_Pi7p2ReUgARo30nNUfb-lDDvqDGfJSIOSs-59gtT12rhtXG1Ww18k_eOOmz77JLP-H7YIc-kKKWsnjgkEAxlK8IRg/s640/blogger-image-266908987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2W4kpHtlA8__V1TIi7UD-1ssGbRgDdEuIMMJCH1tfDQWU3idZA_Pi7p2ReUgARo30nNUfb-lDDvqDGfJSIOSs-59gtT12rhtXG1Ww18k_eOOmz77JLP-H7YIc-kKKWsnjgkEAxlK8IRg/s640/blogger-image-266908987.jpg"></a></div>Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-32478743606441985312014-01-26T17:21:00.000-08:002014-01-26T17:21:08.451-08:00The Real Geranium<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It can be quite confusing learning about plants. The same plant can have multiple common names plus a botanical name which can change as plants are reclassified.<br />
Case in point is the Geranium. Most often when folks hear the name Geranium they think of Grandma's old raggedy plants with bright colored flowers on a leggy plant. Actually those plants are Pelargoniums also called Martha Washington pelargoniums.<br />
The real, honest to god Geraniums are low growing border perennials with lovely pastel flowers, finely divided leaves and delicate texture.<br />
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Known as Hardy Geraniums these tough perennials are great as low care, moderate water edging plants. They bloom heavily in the spring and early summer. Trim back flowers and some of the foliage after the bloom cycle to encourage new growth and flowers. In late winter prune back close to the base of the plant to allow spring growth. Fertilize twice per year with slow release fertilizer or organic fertilizer in February and July.<br />
Divide every 3-5 years as the plants get thin, don't bloom as much and get dead sections.<br />
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Pretty hybrid of Geranium incanum. Check local nurseries for hybrids in spring.</div>
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There are some good mail order sources for Geraniums as well as specialty nurseries.</div>
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Check the web for options. </div>
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Hardy geraniums have the common name- Cranesbill. The seed pods have the look of a birds beak.<br />
The native species of geranium can be weedy.<br />
Hybrids, large flowered forms are hardy to heat and cold. They can tolerate sun and light shade.<br />
Good drainage is a plus but not a must.<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-35728886381786554812014-01-22T11:30:00.000-08:002014-01-22T11:30:43.093-08:00Water Conservation in the Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h2>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A Dry Winter on the San Francisco Peninsula</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I went out to a job the other day to consult. The job was installed last year. It was obvious that the irrigation was turned off and that the plants were stressed and some were even on the verge of dying.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Kind of an unusual problem to have in the middle of winter!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Well folks turn back on the irrigation because it hasn't rained in 2 months. Especially at risk are plants under overhangs and on the south and west sides of the home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Looks like we are going into a drought cycle so here are a few tips for saving water in the landscape.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Use a thick mulch layer around plants to retain moisture. Be sure and pull mulch away from the plant crowns.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Established shrubs don't need much water. Soak deeply twice a week in the warm weather.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Lawns are shallowly rooted. Water 3 times a week for 10-12 minutes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Longer times aren't usually needed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Water in the early mornings to avoid evaporation and for the water to soak in.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Pots need to be watered very often. Consider skipping using potted plants in the drought or planting existing potted plants in the garden. (without the pot)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Replace lawns with mulch and low water requiring plants like those</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">shown here. Even replacing a percentage of the lawn will help with water conservation and</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">will be healthier for the environment. Lawn uses tons of water,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">needs a lot of care and is not very interactive with the environment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Avoid annuals and moisture loving, shallowly rooted plants during the</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">drought. Use scarce water resources to maintain the trees and shrubs in your garden.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Be sure and aid trees by giving deep watering twice per month in</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">the warm seasons. Percolate the water out through a slow running hose in 5-6 locations</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">below the drip line (edge of the foliage) of the trees.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Even the native trees are looking stressed the last few years. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This type of stress can lead to disease and pest problems and the decline</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">of the trees.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Check irrigation for leaks, over spray and excessive run times.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Change spray heads to low gallonage type. Be aware of weather patterns and use irrigation for the most needed periods.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I will continue to post tips and suggestions on water saving, low water requiring plants and drought issues as things progress.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pictures here show the succulent version of senecio, penstemon and a nice mix of low water plants- lavender, zauchneria, sedums, euphorbia and chocolate cosmos.</span><br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-55247373228667053412014-01-04T12:42:00.003-08:002014-01-05T18:11:28.822-08:00New Year Wishes 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b> Happy New Year to you all!</b><br>
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I hope 2014 will be a wonderful, healthy and prosperous year for you and your family.<br>
I am glad to say that 2013 was a much better business year for me and that we had lots of memorable family moments......................<br>
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I got to zoom around with Izzy, my grand-daughter, who is almost 3 years old now<br>
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Help Carolyn, my youngest daughter, prepare for her wedding- lots of silk flowers!<br>
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She is a zookeeper and I was able to go out and visit her at the Little Rock Zoo and see the many animals she cared for there. She is back in the bay area working at the SF Zoo- yay! Now I can see her more often!<br>
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She picked some lovely wedding colors!<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHPg3lATlNWOvMyf-6OoqyZwDreTUNA4sVlTZKh50UBmpVl04j_8eDyjCKCrwXlqFcmlsMR2Kbj2An5D-oFXmiT3xmOwcvDqE0-794bo_CaBXx4eoqPFUDRW6HU1jotibleIgB-hHlL8/s1600/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHPg3lATlNWOvMyf-6OoqyZwDreTUNA4sVlTZKh50UBmpVl04j_8eDyjCKCrwXlqFcmlsMR2Kbj2An5D-oFXmiT3xmOwcvDqE0-794bo_CaBXx4eoqPFUDRW6HU1jotibleIgB-hHlL8/s320/031.JPG" width="320"></a></div> I attended the wedding of a family friend in a gorgeous Rose Garden in Walnut Creek- the day after my daughters wedding! Wow.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0n4epI0xithmJjqOkaoF4FX4PFckEgTuuvlV27m5RfBjWhyFL9RlSQHBnHp1a3j52aByyXbw797oEY4syCqCKeZnYief-ku8fUdcWuq_AYA4bZWj_0iXep4OovV0xa39J1uIoPrLKMA0/s1600/big+sur+camping+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0n4epI0xithmJjqOkaoF4FX4PFckEgTuuvlV27m5RfBjWhyFL9RlSQHBnHp1a3j52aByyXbw797oEY4syCqCKeZnYief-ku8fUdcWuq_AYA4bZWj_0iXep4OovV0xa39J1uIoPrLKMA0/s320/big+sur+camping+028.JPG" width="320"></a></div>Spent time camping and flew kites in Big Sur and Carmel with Christine, my older daughter and her family. Most especially Izzy!<br>
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And of course I spent many, many, many hours designing beautiful gardens, helping homeowners and contractors plus driving 20,000 miles total for work.<br>
It will take many years to repair the ravages of the recession but I am still at the drafting board creating lovely environments to draw people outdoors and enhance their lives.<br>
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Beautiful, logical, useful and designed to fit the family my gardens have blossomed over the last 29 years making my life and the lives of my clients interactive with the outdoor world. Its a wonderful legacy and lovely to see the gardens mature and carry on over many decades.<br>
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It is a joy to see the world becoming more thoughtful to the environmental impact of our dwellings, habits and actions. This is a picture of a living roof at the LA zoo- pretty isn't it?<br>
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The girls got me an Ipad air for Christmas so now I am being launched into warp drive. I am creating fabulous new albums of pictures to show clients materials and plants. I am so excited and my old body appreciates the lightweight version of my previous rolling library of 20 pound books (4 of them) in a giant suitcase.<br>
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So we rocket into 2014- maybe on this giant grasshopper! Make merry and stay well and don't forget to smell the flowers, herbs and aromas of the garden.Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-56792222112750156302013-12-11T20:56:00.002-08:002013-12-14T12:23:41.346-08:00Avoiding Freeze Damage to PlantingsBrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr its cold out there<br />
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Kind of brutal on skin and the tender leaves of sub-tropical and tropical plants. Although it hasn't dropped down below 20 degrees, which is when I really start to worry, we have had some seriously cold nights.<br />
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Things to cover when it gets down into those cold temps are small Citrus, Hibiscus, Bougainvillea, Orchids, tropical pond plants and landscape plants, Pelargoniums (Geraniums), Cuphea, Mandevilla, Tree Ferns, Brugmansia, succulents and tender new plantings. Many flowering vines are subtropicals i.e. Trumpet vines, Bower vine, Hardenbergia- anti-desiccant sprays (see below) would be good for these.<br />
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Use cloth not plastic sheets to cover the plants and if you can, support the sheets off the foliage to avoid frost burn. Remove the sheeting in the day if it is sunny out. For further warmth you can use a light or single bulb below the sheets- this actually works believe it or not. Avoid contact of sheet to bulb!<br />
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There are sprays that can also help such as "Wilt-pruf" and "Cloud Cover" which are anti-desiccants<br />
that help to keep leaves from "freeze drying". Follow manufacturers specs. for application and re-spray after rains.<br />
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Keep plants well watered between sporadic rains as this helps the leaves of all plants from becoming to wilted in the frosty weather.<br />
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Many plants will have frost burned foliage and go dormant in the cold weather but will recover in the late spring or summer growing from the roots or base. Leave any damaged plants well into the warm weather to make sure that they are really lost before replacing them.<br />
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The best advice is to avoid the use of plants not suited to your climate zone. We are having a significant climate change so have had good luck with sub-tropical here but hard freezes are cyclical so they are bound to hit gardens at some point.<br />
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Enjoy the frost and snow in the mountains- a pretty sight for Christmas time.<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-5539048631357031062013-07-12T14:38:00.001-07:002013-07-12T14:38:15.554-07:00Living with Native Oaks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I took these photos with my Iphone in Flood Park off Bay Road in Menlo Park. Not too shabby for a camera in a phone!<br />
The park has gorgeous old Oak trees- Coast Live Oaks and Valley Oaks that are many hundreds of years old.<br />
Coast Live Oaks are evergreen and have rounded leaves with slightly spiny edges. Valley Oaks have lobed leaves and are deciduous. These are the most common Oaks in our area and many folks have them in their yards or neighborhoods.<br />
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I wanted to blog about them because they are so much a part of our lives in the Bay Area. Where I grew up in San Rafael we had Oaks all around our home and even one in the middle of the house! The home is actually built around a Valley Oak forming an "L" around the trunk. We climbed them, gathered the acorns to play games with and threw the galls at each other as kids. I have spent many happy hours gazing up into the branches of the contorted Oak covering our deck.<br />
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We lost a huge Live Oak in the front of the home last year and it was heartbreaking. It was akin to losing a member of the family. Although they seem to live forever they definitely succumb to age, disease and natural disasters.<br />
Living under the canopy of an Oak is not always easy. They are huge trees that drop leaves, acorns and spent blossoms. They are often the home of caterpillars and insects that can also cause honeydew drip, leaf drop and other assorted messiness. Yet, we thank them for the shade, beauty and bird activity that thrives in their canopies.<br />
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That is actually the most exciting fact about large trees- they are a giant environment and ecosystem in their own right. Supporting birds, moths and insects, bacteria and fungus that larger animals live on that in turn are food for even larger creatures, these trees are a big part of the food chain. Shelter and structure is also a part of their role as well as the action of the root system in preventing erosion.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty Bark!</td></tr>
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When living below an Oak it is important to remember that they are adapted to summer drought- which is very long here. It is dry from May through October most years in the un-irrigated areas and the native plants have the ability to survive in this climate. They do not like a lot of extra water in the summer, so irrigation systems often cause damage to native trees and plants due to overwatering. Oak also have a fungus that lives in unison with them called Oak Root Fungus. This fungus lives in all parts of the trees. Oaks can live fine with it as part of their lives, unless there is a lot of extra watering going on or a very rainy year. The fungus becomes over active with the increased water and can block the vein system of the Trees and other plants in the garden near the Oaks. <br />
You will often hear advice that Oaks should not be watered under the canopy and especially not at the base of the trunk. This is due to disease issues- crown rot, fungus' and even termite damage.<br />
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There are a lot of things that live in and among the Oaks that don't hurt them.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lichen on a twig</td></tr>
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Pictured here is a twig with lichen on it. Lichen is a neat organism that is actually a fungus and an algae intertwined together to form one structure. You see it on rocks, trees, signs, roofs etc..... It only latches on to their supports and<br />
does not harm the structure. Lichen is really a cool plant and I love the many colors and shapes it can have.<br />
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Often Oaks will have cavities where a branch has died out. The cavities may or may not be a problem for the tree- mostly not. These holes become homes for birds, bee hives, small animals and even other plants.<br />
Do not fill the cavities with anything like concrete or tar- this can damage the trees. They heal up on their own.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oak Gall</td></tr>
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This funny looking ball is a gall. It is made by a wasp and is the nursery for their larvae. These are common in Oaks and do not hurt the trees. Some folks call them "Oak Apples" but they are not a fruit- well, maybe for the wasp larvae but not for us.<br />
Galls are kind of interesting too. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and on an Oak you may find 5 or more different kinds of galls.<br />
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Another aspect of living below Oaks and other large trees is compaction. Trees do not benefit from having a lot of traffic running over their roots. Paving below trees is hard on the trees and the paving! Best to stay back from the trunks 8-10' or more with paving and path areas. This is usually impossible in our tight urban settings but if there is a choice this is the rule of thumb.<br />
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Last note on large trees and Oaks- attaching things to them isn't a great idea. Building a tree house? Use posts and beams around the trunk and branches rather than nailing into the tree. Hanging a pot, swing or sign? Allow plenty of chain or rope instead of using a tight loop so the tree can expand and surround the chain or rope with rubber to avoid abrasion. Remove tight tree ties or bracing so the tree won't be strangled or girdled over time.<br />
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Think of an Oak as a huge community supporting hundreds of organisms and providing oxygen for hundreds more. An Oak is more than "just" a tree it is a complex living being and structure that asks for little and gives and gives and gives. Amazing!<br />
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Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-39149159063067800372013-07-02T12:49:00.000-07:002013-07-02T13:04:25.476-07:00Beautiful Garvan Woodland Gardens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0YgZLvNn3z_YR3MxbMRhuDaIJd61ENWr4gTn7PN793xtnSaUt0BWPj-RjGD1Xeg_3ym2KGlZJiefhmEmG7o9xVZdTdwlmjzybmwAG0mbT6_ESPtKGIcFX5X4QYFO4v-23bNHTtPr8iM/s1600/047_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0YgZLvNn3z_YR3MxbMRhuDaIJd61ENWr4gTn7PN793xtnSaUt0BWPj-RjGD1Xeg_3ym2KGlZJiefhmEmG7o9xVZdTdwlmjzybmwAG0mbT6_ESPtKGIcFX5X4QYFO4v-23bNHTtPr8iM/s1600/047_edited-1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I recently visited my daughter in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she was working temporarily as a Zookeeper taking care of Bears, Cheetahs, Lions, Tigers, Capibaras etc....fun! As part of our sight seeing we visited an amazing Botanical Garden run by the University of Arkansas. Garvan Woodland Gardens was a labor of love developed over many years by Verna Garvan. A successful business woman operating a lumber company and a tile and brick works. Verna Garvan with the help of her employee, Warren Bankson, brought her vision for this lovely property to life.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvOUb0U4p6hfWdFpwehdVB0id3MgDqVaRzOPED2YK30RqeNHS7gs5Gd_2ga6jsUBYWu9stMlFzOnKNBflyQFd9F_QjXGo4E9dNKUYPcHWTrxiKHUrdWQ0qbmDaIhMggAJsfwSOCcUN3o/s1600/105_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvOUb0U4p6hfWdFpwehdVB0id3MgDqVaRzOPED2YK30RqeNHS7gs5Gd_2ga6jsUBYWu9stMlFzOnKNBflyQFd9F_QjXGo4E9dNKUYPcHWTrxiKHUrdWQ0qbmDaIhMggAJsfwSOCcUN3o/s1600/105_edited-1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>Today the garden is part of the University program and is the site of ongoing Horticultural training. The masonary on this site is amazing and the bridges are exemplary. The property sits on a peninsula in Lake Hamilton in Garland County near the historic town of Hot Springs. We were lucky to be touring the garden when a large glass exposition was displayed. The glass artist is James Hayes of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Throughout the garden chandeliers, orbs, sculptures and hanging ornaments were set into the trees and planted areas.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6uJHg9oMOJQoepBmK62TmisHWr8xabiUfvlpYap5CxLjLbf0ZaYtdQZk0QAcpeyVG0PNNnybSLl3M9_pP12PbBaCZNhuQ-Cv_I8XNUE_mUAmpFF7ZfLUP0NaLQALFAAjAyyq0aKKpk7g/s1600/054_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6uJHg9oMOJQoepBmK62TmisHWr8xabiUfvlpYap5CxLjLbf0ZaYtdQZk0QAcpeyVG0PNNnybSLl3M9_pP12PbBaCZNhuQ-Cv_I8XNUE_mUAmpFF7ZfLUP0NaLQALFAAjAyyq0aKKpk7g/s1600/054_edited-1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a> The waterfalls cool the area and give this hot region a lovely respite. The sound of the water<br />
splashing over the gray stones transport you to another calmer, quieter world. <br />
As with many large botanical gardens this one has a variety of special areas including a bonsai and Asian garden, children's exploratory area, perennial borders, woodland trails, and large group areas.<br />
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I loved visiting Arkansas and seeing the lush green forests. They are a mix of Conifers and Broadleaf Deciduous Oaks, Maples, Alders etc...<br />
The garden is full of stone and boulders quarried locally and set artistically throughout the grounds. We saw some really cool lizards too.<br />
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The hidden cave below the waterfall is part of the children's exploration area and has a peep hole from above also.<br />
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The kids were enjoying being in and out of the water!<br />
Luckily we were visiting on a mild day and the humidity wasn't too bad.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7VEgToQsaqTV-7e-BxnaNcONdCosP45CqcMTjb0MI7lzyX8xFyN6uOAwnb0ymw8TkRnaffPtbA-K1f7JNhyphenhyphen92rDc3xcuEXjhvs0pOZrvJnG05sc35_Rpemc9JXM3fcGTVo1Q0hEVcZQw/s1600/153_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7VEgToQsaqTV-7e-BxnaNcONdCosP45CqcMTjb0MI7lzyX8xFyN6uOAwnb0ymw8TkRnaffPtbA-K1f7JNhyphenhyphen92rDc3xcuEXjhvs0pOZrvJnG05sc35_Rpemc9JXM3fcGTVo1Q0hEVcZQw/s1600/153_edited-1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>As you know- I love flowers!!!! This is a great example of a perennial border that is not too fussy in its care and water requirements. Notice the classic development of low plantings building to the taller shrubs and flowers at the back. Great design!!</div>
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Bonsai are a small world in a container. Meant to symbolize the greater these miniatures bring the woodland to a table or stone top. The Bonsai here were set into their own area in an alcove of large boulders and trees within the Asian Garden area. Great bridge!<br />
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This is a quick visual and virtual trip to this lovely place but if you are in the region make the drive- its so worth it! We had a wonderful visit.Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-68579034467533712102013-06-30T12:39:00.001-07:002013-06-30T12:40:42.340-07:00The Garden in the Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Summer Top Jobs in the Garden<br />
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The heat is on and the garden is flourishing! In the cool evening go out and take a look and see what needs attention.<br />
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Things to look for:<br />
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Fruit tipping the branches dangerously close to the ground- thin some of the developing fruit and prop the branches with 2x4's. When ripe, remove all fruit from trees.<br />
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Wilting- check the watering system and make sure all the drippers are dripping and sprinklers popping up. Give extra hand watering to suffering plants and wash the foliage of the garden overall.<br />
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Deep water your broadleaf trees and fruit trees. In the summer lay the hose under your trees along the drip line in 4-5 spots and let run in each spot slowly for 30-60 minutes. Do this from June though September 1-2 times a month so that the trees and large shrubs get some deep watering. Irrigation is mostly surface watering.<br />
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Thin patches in the lawn. Check the watering system for coverage. Does the lawn have dry spots after watering? Increase the coverage on the head (open small screw on the top of the sprinkler nozzle).<br />
or add heads as needed.<br />
Sometimes these dry patches are grubs eating the lawn roots or greedy trees soaking up all the water.<br />
Grubs can be treated with pesticide- see nursery for info. <br />
For tree roots add sand or topdressing to bring up the soil level over the roots and over seed with lawn seed.<br />
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Fertilize, please! Apply a slow release fertilizer or regular fertilizer to planting areas and wash in well to avoid burning. Blooming and leaf color will increase with food. Follow manufacturers instructions carefully.<br />
Use "weed and feed" for lawns to control weeds and feed the grass.<br />
Fertilize plants and lawn every 6 weeks in the growing season with regular fertilizer or every 6 months for slow release.<br />
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Put out shallow bowls of water for birds, insects and garden inhabitants. Its dry around here.<br />
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Remove dead flower heads for a better repeat bloom.<br />
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Control weedy plants so they don't overtake the other plantings.<br />
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Enjoy the garden! Its the best this time of year.<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-79929726661083338822013-01-25T20:22:00.002-08:002013-01-25T20:38:52.153-08:00Salvias or Sages- what to do in winter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Salvias or Sages are the beloved garden perennials of hummingbirds, butterflies and bees These hardy, multi-season blooming plants are colorful and aromatic. There are so many hybrids now that I have a hard time keeping up with the new varieties. Not to be confused with the short lived annual types, the perennial low and medium shrub versions are long lasting and diverse. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOUR85NmxVQ/UQNStAodD7I/AAAAAAAAASw/PeGWKIDPSnA/s1600/088_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOUR85NmxVQ/UQNStAodD7I/AAAAAAAAASw/PeGWKIDPSnA/s1600/088_edited-1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>These plants have aptitudes to both half light and full sun. Some are water loving but most like a dry location. Many are subject to frost damage. Check the Sunset Western Garden Book for information on zones and water requirements for any new salvias you purchase.</div>
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In the winter Salvias will go dormant with many having the whole top die back. All the shrub forms of Salvia should be pruned back at the tail end of the frost season (late February) to allow for the new top growth to develop. For many of the shrub forms, if look down at the base of the plant you will see the fresh shoots developing around the crown. Leaving the old top growth over winter helps to protect the new growth from freeze. The good thing about plants that rejuvinate from the base or grow from the old wood is that you have a whole new, fresh top and flowering stalks each year. If not pruned back the plants will become woody, leggy and not bloom well or at all. The hummingbirds will be really mad too! </div>
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During the growing season dead head (cut dead flower heads) back, plus about 2-4" of the foliage to keep the plants looking fresh and promoting new blooms. Fertilize lightly with "Osmocote" or other all purpose fertilizer. They dont need a lot of food or really much care.</div>
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Nepeta, teucrium, and daylilies have a similar type of care with the top growth dying back in winter and the new plants emerging from the base.</div>
Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-20867754106523781862013-01-23T23:10:00.000-08:002013-06-30T12:43:53.260-07:00Citrus Care<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Citrus are the easy fruiting trees. They are really big shrubs with a classic rounded shape. They store their fruit well and ripen slowely so that you can pick it over a long period of time.<br />
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January is a good time to feed your Citrus with all-purpose citrus food so that the spring rains will wash in the fertilizer. This will help set the crop for next year. It is also a good time to give them a dose of chelated iron which is a soluble iron that is mixed with water and foliar fed or poured around the root area from a bucket. Feed Citrus again with iron in the late summer and water in well.<br />
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Be sure and pick all the ripe fruit each year and clean up any fallen fruit or "mummies" still hanging on the tree to help rid the area of diseases and pests that get into the fallen fruit.<br />
Removing the fruit also helps next years crop to form in that energy isn't going into maintaining<br />
the old fruit still hanging on the tree.<br />
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Citrus don't need a lot of pruning just trim any long branches that shoot out and keep them trimmed into a nice rounded, symmetrical shape. Avoid over-pruning as it opens up the canopy and allows the sun to scald the thin bark of the plants.<br />
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Prune other trees and shrubs away from your Citrus trees so they get plenty of light, water and nutrients on all sides.<br />
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Whitefly can be an issue for Citrus, if they are in an overcrowded area or are not getting enough light.<br />
Hang traps for these pests and wash foliage frequently. Prune back any trees blocking the light to the Citrus.<br />
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In Summer, deeply water your Citrus twice a month by setting out a hose at the drip line of the canopy, letting the hose run very slowly for 20-30 minutes. Do this in 4 places around a large tree and two places for smaller trees. Even if you have irrigation the deep watering helps the trees develop juicy fruit- its mostly water after all!<br />
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When hard freeze is predicted in the winter cover the trees (if you can) with a cloth sheet (not plastic). Uncover as the freeze lifts.<br />
Some folks put a light under the sheet to generate some heat for the tree.<br />
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If you can't eat all your fruit please donate it to the food bank- they really need the donations and appreciate it!<br />
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Enjoy the powerhouse of fruiting plants- Citrus!<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-23891549495053754372013-01-15T21:10:00.000-08:002013-06-30T13:17:48.401-07:00What am I seeing Here?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yes, that really is a California Blacktail Deer on someones roof! This was contributed to my blog by Erin Sunkel of Belmont, who was amazed to look out her dining room window to see a Deer on the neighbors roof chomping on the tops of her shrubs. Apparently this rascal had jumped from the slope in the back of the home onto the roof to have a buffet of the foliage overhanging the roof. <br />
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Up at my Mom's house in Marin County we have had many amazing Deer interactions including:<br />
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A 3 legged deer who couldn't seem to stand up so my Mother (80 at the time) decided to help out and scared herself and the Deer. Luckily they both tottered off without harm.<br />
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A huge Buck getting his antlers stuck between the beams on the underside of the house. <br />
So Mom was in the shower and heard a lot of racket from below. She exited the shower, dressed and went to investigate to find the animal in jeopardy. With the help of the Marin Humane Society they got the Buck free but it ran off before they could determine if he was o.k.. At least he didn't come back.<br />
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When I lived at home I heard crashing,banging noises coming from the woods out back. I came out the back door to find two Bucks doing a nature kingdom spectacular for me. They were butting their heads together at full speed with giant racks of antlers- Wow! The energy was terrifying and fascinating at the same time.<br />
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One of my childhood friends in the hood found a struggling Deer in their creek and was horrified to find that someone had shot him with a arrow. The Marin Humane Society (they get a lot of action) came out and tried to help out but this Deer also ran off before it could be sedated and taken to the animal hospital. We always wondered how it got shot and where it went to.<br />
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My favorite though is the time Mom opened the front door to find a little doe laying on the front stoop perfectly comfortable and happy out of the rain and cold weather. She was startled but quietly closed the door and smiled.<br />
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For all my acrimony with Deer for the damage they cause to the gardens they are a big part of our lives in the old neighborhood and it wouldn't be the same without them.<br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5810695037749996700.post-83971505706841020062012-09-23T13:13:00.001-07:002012-09-23T13:13:55.528-07:00Rachel Carson's Legacy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was listening to a program on NPR yesterday about Silent Spring by Rachel Carson, a ground breaking work siting the use of pesticides and their effect on wildlife. This year is the 50th anniversay of the publication of Silent Spring. Ms. Carson's work led to many positve changes in the application and use of pesticides and the banning of a multitude of products that remain in the environment over long periods of time leading to reduced birth rates and even extinction in birds and other animals and insects.The program noted that the EPA was also formed as a result of concerns that arose in the light of Carson's work.<br />
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When I went through my courses at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo in the early 1980's I studied "integrated pest management". This course was a direct result of the work put forth by Rachel Carson. Rather than immediatly going to a chemical spray for pest problems the idea of integrated pest management was to use a combination of beneficial insects and bacterias, low toxicity sprays and more resistant strains of plants. We did learn about pesticides but I was glad to see that many of the most hazardous materials had been banned.<br />
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The current movement towards organic produce and natural products for fertilizing and soil ammnedments is also a continuation of Rachel Carson's legacy. As generations of consumers have become more aware of the dangers of lingering chemicals in the soil and water supply it has forced the large supermarket chains to demand more organic produce and also meats,poultry and fish.<br />
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As gardeners we can do at home what organic farmers are doing in the fields. Promote an active bird and beneficial insect community. They help control the pests that eat our plants. Rather than spraying with a pesticide try a mild soapy solution in a hose end sprayer for aphids, spider mites and mothes/larvae. Gather up the snails in the evening instead of baiting. This actually worked a lot better in my garden than snail bait ever did. Use natural fertilizers rather than chemical formulations. Luckily we now have several lines of great products for this. Good old manure works well and compost from home. Be sure and leach before use (water down to wash away salts).<br />
If you do use pesticide, do so sparingly. Usually 1 or 2 treatments will be enough to control a<br />
problem. Keep in mind that many pesticides and herbicides now available are held to a much more stringent standard so occasional use is not a horrible thing.<br />
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In our garden we always have an active ecosystem present because there are the basic needs of living creatures in the garden: fresh water available, flowers for nectar, seed heads too for birds, foliage for protection from predators, and fruiting trees. Yes, we had some insect damage, some snails and the influx of wildlife but it all balanced out pretty well because there were beneficial insects, birds and bacteria to help out and Me, the gardener, keeping an eye out for problem spots. My favorite helpers were the praying Mantis with their triangular heads and long legs! Very cool.<br />
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So yay- Rachel Carson! Thanks for caring about not only the birds and wildlife but our children as well. <br />
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<br />Lois Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15549474804765784890noreply@blogger.com0