The Mountain Gardener: Plant groundcover before hillsides wash away
Getting caught out in the rain last month was a timely reminder that the rainy season will soon be upon us. The “Farmer's Almanac” predicts our "winter will be much rainier and cooler than normal." Weather bloggers are posting an impressive number of charts and figures that predict a general dry trend, while the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says we have an equal chance of precipitation totals going either way.
Commentary: Mayor asks for Measure U vote
I have had the pleasure these past few weeks to talk to lots of people, some door-to-door, about our temporary ½-cent sales tax, Measure U. The response has been very positive. Some heartily endorse the measure, agreeing that to keep current services intact that additional revenue is needed for our city. But not everyone favors this tax and they have their reasons and they are happy to share them with me. The “I pay enough taxes already,” is the most frequent reason given for resisting any new tax. I think they are surprised when I agree with them.
The Mountain Gardener: How to deal with frost, and winter gifts
Early on one of those freezing mornings I came across a large stand of California native toyon shrubs, every branch covered with juicy red berries. Dozens of songbirds were enjoying the feast, loading up and bracing for another cold night. You couldn't ask for a more Christmas-ey plant. Bright red and green — the Christmas colors. I made a note to put toyon on my list for gift ideas. What would be better than to give my loved ones something that feeds the birds and the spirit?
Datebook
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Plain Talk About Food: Plain talk about fried chicken
Nothing pleases me more than a Sunday's drive up Alba Road in Ben Lomond on a warm sunny day.
The Mountain Gardener: Deer and poisonous plants
It’s July already, and plants are growing like there's no tomorrow. The hummingbirds are my constant companions in the garden, and the resident deer population comes by daily. There are two spotted fawns who now accompany their mother, along with a couple of her sisters. Life is good.
Paving work on Highway 9 to begin Monday between Mountain and...
Caltrans will begin a four-day paving project on Highway 9, from Mountain to Larkspur streets in Brookdale, on Monday, June 16, continuing through Thursday, June...