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In California, suicide is the second leading cause of death in teens. While the subject is hard to think about — let alone talk about — it is important to be informed and educated on the warning signs so you can help loved ones when they need it.

As you walk around your garden enjoying the fragrance of the different flowers you may be thinking back to your mother’s garden and the clove-scented carnations she grew or the sweet peas that remind you of that neighbor who grew them next-door and loved to share. Our sense of smell is a powerful trigger to past memories.

In celebration of Native Plant Week earlier this month, let's talk about using California natives in the garden. How do you pick the best plants for your situation, and what do they need to grow in your garden?

Gardening is a tricky thing up here in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

A couple weeks ago in a column about allergy free landscaping, I mentioned dogwood being a good tree choice as their pollen is not wind borne. Their showy flowers are pollinated by insects rather than by the wind. Producing less pollen, their pollen is large and heavy, sticking to insects rather than becoming airborne and leading to sneezing, runny noses and watery eyes. With dogwoods about to burst into bloom I thought I’d share some information about growing this iconic tree.

Santa Cruz County Horsemen’s Association hosted an open house Saturday at its Graham Hill Road location featuring horseback acrobatics and archery, costumes and a parade with around 20 different breeds. It was a chance for people from across the region to get a glimpse of...