Robert Smaus has done more to encourage fall planting in southern California than any other person. In his groundbreaking book 52 Weeks in the California Garden, published exactly ten years ago this year he expertly articulates the benefits
Fall Is For Planting
What is the busiest time of the year for you in your garden; the month that you spend more time than any other? If you answered March, April or May you’re a typical gardener. You may even be
September Gardening Myths
In most ways gardening is a local topic. Hence, the reason for the Coastal Gardener column. Unknowingly, gardeners receive a great deal of information in a generalized format. When gardening information is heard or read and then re-printed,
A Good Gardener
Many years ago I was a gardener. It was hard work and I loved it. We were old-fashioned gardeners. We planted flowers, did all the detail work, worked every plant, controlled pests, cleaned the beds and a lot
Clematis, Queen Of The Vines
Clematis are perhaps the most beloved vining plant in the world. Clematis are the “Queen of the Vines”.
Until recently it was assumed that these regal plants were somehow poor choices for Southern California’s climate and soils. About ten
