Tag: Santa Cruz Mountains
Author Wants CZU Book to Provide ‘Hope And Healing’
It was just two years ago that the CZU Lightning Complex fires erupted, leaving 86,500 acres charred between the Santa Cruz Mountains and San Mateo...
Our canary in the coal mine
Development and quarrying has already taken a severe toll on sandhills and parkland sandhills, out of what few are left, but invasive species is currently the biggest threat on the Olympia wellfield. I am opposed to the ban that was passed by the new SLVWD board last Thursday because it was passed without a feasible, science based alternative plan for ensuring the protection of these sandhills against invasive species. The few alternatives that I have heard about aren’t even based in reality.
How our Christmas Customs Got Their Start
We all celebrate the holidays in different ways. Each family has their own traditions and warm memories from years gone by. Some of us celebrate Christmas, some Hanukkah, some Kwanzaa. Many of our traditional Christmas customs originate from Winter Solstice celebrations. The plants associated with each are an important part of tradition and symbolism.
When Good Plants Go Bad- Toxic Holiday Plants
With the holiday season upon us I enjoy colorful plants on my tabletop and window sill. How safe are holiday plants for pets and small children?
Flowering Plants That Hold Up to Winter Weather
Finally the rain has come. Outside my window a Townsend warbler feasts on suet. It’s a rainy day and I”m enjoying the vivid colors of my late fall garden. Backlit leaves take on a whole new look. There are so many ways of combining plants in the garden. I’m taking notes so I remember my favorites to include in my own garden and future designs.
This & That: El Niño, Invasive plants and Other Things
If working in the garden Thanksgiving weekend is not high on your list then you’re in luck. Here are some reasons why along with other information you need to know.
Why We Love Grasses in the Fall
Throughout the year I am asked for design help and plant suggestions but especially in the fall I hear the request, “I’d love to add more grasses to my garden.” There’s no doubt that the movement and sound of ornamental grasses in the landscape adds another dimension to our experience. Many grasses and grass-like plants use less water than other plants, too.
Planting Bulbs in The Santa Cruz Mountains
There’s not a year that goes by that I don’t plant some new bulbs in the fall. I may battle squirrels, deer and shade but come spring it’ll all be worth it. Daffodils and narcissus are safe but what would spring be without all the other gorgeous bulbs to welcome in the season?
Fall Color Happens Here, Too
Inspired by a website called “Dude, Autumn Happens Here, Too” (https://www.californiafallcolor.com/ ) I set off last week to see the quaking aspen groves in the Sierra. As I drove up Highway 4 and over Ebbetts Pass the aspen groves came into view. Markleeville and Monitor Pass displayed some nice color, too. As I enjoyed the fall display I wondered if they would be as beautiful for future generations or if our impact on the environment would cause these glorious trees to change in any way.
Wildfire between Felton and Scotts Valley quelled
A wildfire that broke out between Felton and Scotts Valley midday Friday was quickly contained at 2.3 acres, as firefighters sought to quell flames...
