Greener Designs

Wordless Wednesday - Want Birds?

2012-02-15T04:04:00.000-08:00

Pyracantha

Rhaphiolepis

Nandina

If you would like to hire me to beautify your life, think about creating a beautiful garden with me. Call 661-917-3521, contact julie@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net or visit my website.

Inspiration and Healing

2012-02-11T04:00:00.000-08:00

Inspiration and healing never comes when you expect it. If you go looking, you won't find them but if you open yourself up to the world around you, there they are.

I am from the east coast, specifically the Greater New York area. I have lived in Manhattan, on Long Island, and in upstate New York and since my family is still there I go back to visit fairly often. A family event sent us back this past weekend and although it was too short (it always is) I enjoyed every moment. I walked the streets, and drove the back roads of my youth and found inspiration and healing by sharing a different perspective with my (now older) children. I really appreciate that they are at ages of discernment and that I can share much more with them.

I spent a day in Manhattan with my eldest son; I took him to the West Village, home of my first apartment, which I shared fresh out of college - just a shade younger than he is now. And later we spent an extraordinary 90 minutes at The Mandarin's Tea Room, I entered thinking that I would be learning more about the teas that my son Marlon, of Chan Teas, loves and walked out with a firmer connection on some of the principles I have been trying to foster in myself. I felt the tea brewing meditative (which I have been working on cultivating in my life) and the scents, tastes, textures, and sounds that Tim shared with us were extraordinary. It allowed me to participate more fully in the subsequent tea brewing sessions that Marlon shared with our family and created another great family memory.

How does this tie in to inspiration and healing you ask? I find beauty and inspiration all around. Have you ever designed a garden based on a beautiful curlicue or a antique pattern? I have.

Walking the city streets with the chill air in our faces, enjoying the branching structures of trees that I don’t normally see, drinking in the vibe, and coming upon surprise secret gardens tucked away among the big buildings gave me pause. I can see using all of these elements in my clients’ gardens, and how each and every piece of inspiration can lead to the creation of another garden that will connect families, heal hearts and minds, and foster enjoyment.

Stepping from the brisk streets into the warm tearoom provided another opportunity for me to understand that these are the kind of feelings (warm, comfortable, safe, healthy) I want to bring to people.

Long Island, the deserted beach at sunrise – cold and stark but beautiful and inviting. The birds circled above, the beach grasses rustled in the breeze, the water lapped against the shores. I felt completely at peace, completely aware, and completely inspired.

Nature can bring harmony, healing, and comfort to humanity, so why not bring it into your home by creating a healing garden? What I took away from this trip is that the world needs people to share their experiences with each other, to help others, and to realize that we are one. We are all in it together, so taking some time to center is really important. No matter how you do it, yoga, meditation, drinking tea, hiking, creating a garden. Get inspired and just take that step forward.

I think that the world needs more gardens and fewer yards.

If you are interested in learning more about adding permanent aspects to your healing garden, I’m offering another complimentary teleclass, This is second in the series.

I will be chatting with Special Guest, Alex Ventura of Ventura & Son Masonry.

Please join me for a complimentary teleclass I'm giving on what you need to know before making changes to your hardscape.

This call is good for any climate, any zone, anywhere! All you need is the desire to make your garden shine.

Monday February 13, 2012 at 6:30 pm PST

To learn more about it – take a look at this link

Wordless Wednesday - Mild February in NY

2012-02-08T04:04:00.000-08:00

I’m offering another complimentary telecall! This is second in the series.

Julie Molinare (me…Your Garden Goddess) will be chatting with Special Guest, Alex Ventura of Ventura & Son Masonry.

Please join me for a complimentary teleclass I'm giving on what you need to know before making changes to your hardscape.

This call is good for any climate, any zone, anywhere! All you need is the desire to make your garden shine.

Monday February 13, 2012 at 6:30 pm PST

To learn more about it – take a look at this link!

What To Do In Your Southern California Garden in February

2012-02-04T04:00:00.000-08:00

February is the reason that I moved to Southern California. After a few years of traveling here on business, and friends that had moved to entice me, the weather was the final punch that knocked me onto the left coast. I love NY don’t get me wrong, but February’s cold and slush can get old and now here I am giving gardening advice to my friends, clients, and fellow garden lovers in February. Lucky me.

1. Rose Pruning - Super bowl Sunday has been a benchmark for me regarding rose pruning. It’s an easy way to remember when to prune here in Southern California (as long as you don’t go by the lawn janitor’s timing). I know, the Giants are playing this year, however I think you can take some time in the morning to prune your roses. Don’t forget to apply that dormant spray!

2. Fruit Trees - You can plant bear root fruit trees and you can even plant citrus, they will benefit from our winter rains (if we ever get any) to help them establish. If you are planting subtropicals (like citrus and others) make sure that you think about frost protection. Leave some room between the trees and sink some 1”x1” wood into the ground on all four sides so you can drape some frost cloth around them should there be frost warnings. Make sure that you cover at night and uncover in the morning so they can get the benefit of the beauteous sunshine we have here! You can also use the Christmas light solution – stringing some around to raise the air temp – but don’t use both methods at the same time; I think the frost cloth is probably combustible!

3. Save Money on Roses - Bare root roses might still be available, buy some now and save a bundle. Once they are in cans they will be pricier! Take a look at my bare root primer post.

4. Don't Fight the Muck - Buy some new rubber boots or shoes. With the weather we have the stores think that it is springtime and lots of the winter gear is going on sale. Take advantage of it!.

5. Prune Winter Bloomers - By the end of the month some of your winter blooming shrubs and vines like hardenbergia and ceanothus may have finished blooming. If they have, you can prune them. If not or you hear it is going to be cold again… wait a little while.

6. Peach Leaf Curl - If you haven’t sprayed for peach leaf curl and your peach is less than 10% in bloom, you can still spray. If more than 10% - you missed the window.

7. Pruning Tip - You can prune your peach and nectarine trees now, even if they are in bloom. If you are planning to prune for size to create a backyard orchard that is easy to maintain – now’s the time. Take a look at my Backyard Orchard Culture Post for some insights.

8. Cool Season Color - You can plant cool season annuals like primrose and pansies, just remember they will still need to replaced when it warms up – but don’t worry they will let you know it’s time.

9. Plan Ahead - If you plant summer veggies from seed (and not seedlings) you can start some seeds now.

10. Get Healthy! - You can still get another crop of baby greens in. Select fast growing varieties or ones that you like to eat small. Mesclun, mache, and sorrel are some of my favorites. My pup dug up a bunch of sorrel a couple weeks ago, but I just shoved it back in and it seems to be doing well. I guess his toy wasn’t underneath my plants after all!

11. Time to Prune? - If the weather holds through the month, you can prune evergreen shrubs as far north as Santa Clarita, Lancaster & Palmdale – I’d wait a little bit.

12. Enjoy the weather! If it is sunny and warm, take your beverage and a book outside and enjoy, if it’s raining thank the rain g-ds and curl up on the couch.

If you would like to hire me to beautify your life, think about creating a beautiful garden with me. Call 661-917-3521, contact julie@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net or visit my website.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-01T04:08:00.000-08:00

If you would like to hire me to beautify your life, creating a beautiful garden with you call 661-917-3521, contact julie@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net or visit my website

What's Happening in Southern California - Garden Edition February 2012

2012-01-28T04:08:00.000-08:00

As always, I want to remind you to shop local, and get the freshest produce around by heading out to the local Farmer’s Markets in Santa Clarita:

Sundays 8:00am – noon
College of The Canyons Parking Lot
Don’t forget to visit my friend Sarah from Worldwide Exotics

Please don’t visit on January 1st (this Sunday) they won’t be open.

There is also another great Farmer’s Market:
Thursdays in Old Town Newhall from 3-7pm.

Saturday February 11, 2012 - 9 am - 12 noon CLWA – Landscape Education Class
The Edible Landscape at Castaic Lake Water Agency on the hill above Central Park. Please RSVP to (661) 513-1230.

Saturday February 11, 2012 – 10 am Seminar tbd - Green Thumb Newhall located at: 23734 Newhall Avenue in Newhall, CA 91321 (661) 259-1071

Saturday February 25, 2012 – 10 am Our Edible Garden: Success with Fruit Trees – Dan Garbe is the presenter at Green Thumb Newhall located at: 23734 Newhall Avenue in Newhall, CA 91321 (661) 259-1071

Descanso Gardens:
If you like Camellias, this is the place to be this month, of course there are a lot of other things going on. There is a bit going on my favorite will be

Saturday & Sunday February 4th is the Camellia Festival with events like Faery Tour, Camellia Walk & Talk. Put on by the Pacific Camellia Society for more information look at their website.

There is also a Heritage Oak Tour on the schedule as well as a seminar about backyard Chickens & Bees, so take a look at their calendar and make some plans.

Here is the link to Descanso’s calendar:

LA Arboretum

Lili Singer’s classes started up again on Thursdays in January, so plan to make it to some of them, she’s very informative

Saturday February 4th there is a Mushroom Identification class and the Pacific Rose Society Annual Auction which sound like fun. There is always something in bloom, so a visit is always an anventure.

For more about the upcoming events – check out this link.

If you would like to hire me to beautify your life, creating a beautiful garden with you call 661-917-3521, contact julie@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net or visit my website.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T04:04:00.000-08:00

If you would like to hire me to beautify your life, creating a beautiful garden with you call 661-917-3521, contact julie@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net or visit my website

Backyard Orchard Culture From The Master

2012-01-21T04:04:00.000-08:00

So, I’ve made an executive decision. I can’t add any Saturdays to this month so although I went to two amazing seminars last week at Otto & Sons Nursery in Fillmore, I am only going to write about the Backyard Orchard Culture Seminar presented by Tom Spellman of Dave Wilson Nursery. The other seminar was on roses, and although it was fabulous and I learned a lot from Otto & Son’s owner, Scott Klittich like I said there are only so much time to write. Plus, Otto & Sons is presenting Rose Care U again 1/21/12 & 1/28/12 – so just go and you don’t need me to tell you about it.

I had heard about Tom Spellman and his great talks on Backyard Orchard culture from my friend, Alex Silber, at Papaya Tree Nursery and at his suggestion I found some great ouTube videos of Tom teaching how to prune fruit trees, so I was excited when I saw that in addition to the January Saturday Rose Care University seminars Otto and Sons was offering Tom’s seminar.

So you say, what is backyard orchard culture? Good question! Basically it means changing the way you think about planting and harvesting fruit from fruit trees for your home use. Commercial fruit growers and home growers want pretty much the opposite thing from their tree. Commercial growers want a tree that will produce a big crop of fruit that ripens pretty much all at the same time, so that it can be harvested all at once with a crew that can get in with equipment and the fruit can be sent off to market. Fruit for home use (unless you have a huge family) is best if it ripens over time so that you get say seven peaches, 10 plums, a couple lemons, twelve apples a week from trees that you can easily reach to pick fruit; hopefully before the birds and squirrels get to it. Makes sense right?

How do you as a garden owner make that happen? By changing a few thought patterns!

1. Size Control your trees. Ask yourself, what is manageable to me and the other pickers in my family? Are you willing to stand on a ladder, a stepladder, or do you want to pick while standing on the ground? I’m a climber; I don’t mind heights but I am small so a 7’ tree would probably be maximum height for me even with a step ladder and since it is easy enough – I think I’m going to try keeping my new trees at 5 ½ - 6’. Sounds impossible… It isn’t!

2. Don’t have a commercial growers expectation. Plant fruit with successive ripening. Since you are keeping your trees smaller, you can have more. Plant three or four varieties of plums or a combination of plums and pluots to extend your fruit production time. Try Burgundy Plum for early June, Santa Rosa, which ripens later June into July, Beauty or Mariposa Plum, ripening in August, and Emerald View for September. A little research on fruiting time or a call to Your Garden Goddess will help you do the same as above with other fruit types. (I’m Your Garden Goddess by the way).

3. Grow varieties that you understand and that you will use at home. That doesn’t mean that you can’t experiment, you should, but don’t just plant something you know nothing about because it is on sale or because someone is clearing out their yard and it is free. If you plant something that you don’t like or don’t know how to use – you are wasting your hard work and garden space.

Here are a couple photos of how Tom suggests you prune your trees when you first get them for planting.

There are a few other items you need to know to have a successful backyard orchard beside the mindset steps above. Here they are:

Understand the microclimate of your garden. What are the sunny spots? Where is it shady? There are hot and cold spots as well as wet and soggy spots that need attention to drainage. By pairing up the proper fruit tree with the area you will have a lot more success. *Tip: Cane plants like berries like wet, citrus likes the sun, and avocados need great drainage… but don’t plant avocados in SCV… they don’t really work.

Test your soil to see what it is like – clay, sandy, loam. This is important!

Pay attention to the rootstock as well as the variety of tree. Citation is good for clay soils, Nemaguard for sandy soil or can be planted on a berm or mound to name just two.

If you are reading this in Southern California, you really need to think about chill hours. We don’t get a lot in most places so you need to select low chill varieties.

Your young tree is a building block to form and shape for the future. Don’t get hung up on having fruit right away, as a matter of fact too much fruit on a young tree can damage it. Hard as it is, taking off the little baby fruits before they mature (on a new tree) is really the best. (Sorry, I know it is hard.)

Prune twice a year: Summer Prune for size control, July – September- this is the big “haircut” and Winter Prune for detail. Always start by removing dead wood and cross branches to open the tree up for sun & air circulation, remove diseased wood, then prune to create balance. *Tip: If you have to think about whether to prune it – just make the cut! You can always fix it next year – the tree will just keep growing.

Mulch! Yes, I talk about mulch all the time but it is important! Use biodiverse mulch (not a single wood or product only) 4” of mulch on everything (except concrete and lawn says Tom.) If you use large chunks, you can put it right up to your tree trunks, if it is small or shaved – keep it away from the trunks. Replace your mulch yearly.

Fertilizing - the first two years you can use a fertilizer with a good amount of Nitrogen in it to promote growth, fertilize four times per year in January, March, May, and July. After that a fertilizer with more Potassium, & Phosphorus is better, fertilize twice per year at the end of January and the end of May. Tom recommends Gro Power Plus for the first two years and Gro Power Flower ‘n Bloom after that. They are not completely organic however, so you make the call for your lifestyle.

Tom also took the loppers to this tree which he felt was way too tall already to reach the fruit, and although it is kind of hard to see, I’ll describe that he basically cut off the whole branching top and left the trunk at about 4’ tall! Obviously no fruit this year, but this is how you start creating your building block

Here are some beautiful fruit trees, shrubs, and vines that grow well here in Southern California, maybe they will give you ideas of what you might want to grow.

Well there is so much more that I learned but this post is going to be way too long so. If you have questions you can ask them or, you can just hire me to help you create the garden of your dreams – edible or ornamental or a mixture of both! 661-917-3521 or julie@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net

Wordless Wednesday - Stop SOPA

2012-01-18T04:09:00.000-08:00

Click Here

Stuff I Love!

2012-01-14T04:08:00.000-08:00

The time of the year when gardens are showing off not their lovely blooms but their bones and the accessories that the garden fairies have chosen to nestle among those bones. Yes, our gardens may still be blooming here and there however there is a lot less to attract our attention color wise right now even here in sunny Southern California – so what about all around the rest of the country?

One of the garden planning activities that I love to do is dreaming… What makes your garden say that it is your garden? Yes it is the plants that you lovingly chose and the flow that you gave it to begin with but what about accessories?

I love accessorizing my garden and the gardens of my clients and shopping for those accessories can be such fun! I love to shop at flea markets, thrift stores, and yard sales for my garden ornaments and I bet that after you see some of these items you will be hitting the pavement and stores for both your garden and your home!

If you feel intimidated about shopping for accessories for you garden, just think of your flea market finds as the jewelry of your garden! You don’t need to have it, but you sure feel better going out of the house with it on. So just have fun with it!

How about these beauties:

Watering implements: Collections are a great way to tie your garden together or create a theme.

These would be a beautiful addition to an Asian or modern style garden.

Love, love, love the iron work!

These are a great addition to a contemplative area of your garden or you can even start your collection with these.

Don’t forget you can also find some great “jewelry” for the inside of your home.

These sea urchins will add a real resort or beach feel to your home.

A colorful, metal alphabet just waiting. You could use them in a kids room, an office or buy a bunch to create an inspirational phrase for just the right nook.

...and you can even find REAL accessories Pocketbooks galore!

So, now that the weather is allowing your garden jewelry to be the star of the show, why not add a few pieces?

If you are interested in sprucing up your garden with some beautiful hand selected antiques and such, you really should listen to the Complimentary teleclass that I’m having on Thursday January 19, 2012. I’ll be chatting with my friend and colleague, Tami Smight, at 6:30 pm PST. Designer tips and tricks will be revealed! To learn more and sign up for the call – please click here!

Wordless Wednesday - Towsley Canyon

2012-01-11T04:00:00.000-08:00

Towsley Canyon - looking up

Towsley Canyon - looking down

Towsley Canyon - Pup escort

Don't forget to sign up here for my complimentary Telecall "Flea Market Finds" with special guest Tami Smight - Thursday January 19, 2012 at 6:30 pm.

What To Do In Your Southern California Garden in January

2012-01-07T04:00:00.000-08:00

This year’s first week of January has been a far cry from our last year’s snow! We’ve had unseasonably warm weather over the past week, but that doesn’t mean that you should change your gardening game plan. Here is a list of items that you should take care of in your garden this month.

photo courtesy - Marlon of Chan Teas (check out their selection!)

1. Enjoy a little down time relaxing with some gardening catalogs, a cup of coffee or tea, order a few packets of seeds, and find some new gardening tools. Then you can spend a little time cleaning or tidying up your gardening tools. January is Get Organized Month, so your garden shed or toolbox would be a good place to start. If you live in the Los Angeles area my friend Christie Gelsemino of Vision to be Organized can help you get started.

2. This month is a great time to select Camellias they are blooming, so you can really see what the plant will look like bursting with blooms. They are one of our best winter flowers; so if you have a shady spot, grab a Camellias or two. Now be sure to give them some room – they are pretty large shrubs!

3. Plant that living Christmas tree that you selected this year. If you didn’t cut one down it is time to get your tree out of the house and into the ground. Wanting to keep your tree on the small size? You might consider planting it in a container. There are plenty of nice pots at our local nurseries

4. Bare root roses and fruit trees are out in the nurseries now. You can save plenty of money on full sized plants if you select early and get bare root plants. You can also check for bare root vines, shrubs, and ornamental trees. If you visit a few nurseries, you should be able to find everything that you want, and more.

5. Winter and spring blooming bulbs can still be planted, and while you are at it you can add some cool season annuals if you have room for some winter color

6. You can plant citrus trees now too (sometimes you can even find bare root) but be sure to make accommodations for the inevitable winter chills we are going to get. Try some little Christmas lights draped around your citrus and other tender plants. Keep your eyes open for signs of frost – yes it has been HOT these past few days, but you know that is going to change!

7. Your peach trees can be sprayed for peach leaf curl, peach leaf blight and canker.

8. It is time to cut back on your indoor plant fertilization, take a look at my blog post on How To Care For Holiday Plants if you have received plants that you don’t know how to care for.

9. Cacti and succulents that are outgrowing their pots can be repotted, if they have finished blooming..

10. Flowering fruit trees can be pruned while they are in bloom – peaches and nectarines can benefit from this early pruning method because you fool the tree into thinking the wood is older than it is and it can produce more fruit. Be careful though, you don’t want to prune if they plants aren’t well established and mature. They won’t survive the cold as well and if the branches aren’t strong you can end up with too much fruit that will put stress (from the weight) on the tree branches

11. You can plant another row or two of winter veggies – especially the greens. They taste better small, and you’ll have more to select from as they days grow warmer.

12. If you want you can start some of the hardier blooming spring annuals soon – this will save you a little money on seedlings in the spring.

13. Applying dormant spray to trees, shrubs, and vines is a chore you can do this month. I recommend that you apply the dormant spray to roses when you prune them… Superbowl Sunday, so this year that’s just the other side of the month. It’s a little too early to prune the roses right now, though the mow/blow/go landscape janitors would disagree with me. I stand my ground.

14. If your evergreen vines and winter flowering

If you are interested in sprucing up your garden with some beautiful hand selected antiques and such, you really should listen to the Complimentary teleclass that I’m having on Thursday January 19, 2012. I’ll be chatting with my friend and colleague, Tami Smight, at 6:30 pm PST. Designer tips and tricks will be revealed! To learn more and sign up for the call – please click here!

Wordless Wednesday - Ring in 2012

2012-01-04T04:00:00.000-08:00

"Monkey Busines" Rose (Otto & Sons)

Arbutus unedo (fruit)

Yucca wipplei

For more about my designs

What's Happening in Souther California - Garden Edition January 2012

2011-12-31T04:00:00.000-08:00

As always, I want to remind you to shop local, and get the freshest produce around by heading out to the local Farmer’s Markets in Santa Clarita:

Sundays 8:00am – noon
College of The Canyons Parking Lot
Don’t forget to visit my friend Sarah from Worldwide Exotics

Please don’t visit on January 1st (this Sunday) they won’t be open.

There is also another great Farmer’s Market:
Thursdays in Old Town Newhall from 3-7pm.

Keep your eyes and ears open, I'll be announcing a new Complimentary Telecall early this month. You'll want to sign up for this one!

Roses, roses, roses. There are a lot of rose events this month!

Green Thumb Christmas Clearance Sale
Pick up some amazing deals on the beautiful ornaments and décor that might not have been swooped up during the holidays. Things will still be on sale including big discounts on discontinued items. Get there before it’s all gone or packed up! Green Thumb is located at: 23734 Newhall Avenue in Newhall, CA 91321 (661) 259-1071

Sat Jan 7, 2012 – Rose Care University at Otto & Sons 10 am – 12 noon (repeated each Saturday this month) 1835 E. Guiberson Road Filmore, Ca. 93015 (805) 524-2123 MUST RSVP for reservation – cost $15.00 – lots of giveaways, home made cookies and… Learn the fundamentals. Rose pruning, soil management, watering, feeding, Eco-Gardening, and What’s Bugging You?

Sun Jan 8, 2012 – Free Rose Care Seminar - 2:30 – 4:30
The Santa Clarita Valley Rose Society is hosting their 20th Annual Free Rose Care Seminar at the SCV Senior Center, 22900 Market Street, Newhall.

The seminar will feature Master Rosarians Bob Belendez, Kitty Belendez, and Steve Jones who will demonstrate how to properly prune various types of roses. The Master Rosarians will also explain how to plant bareroot roses, how to rejuvenate roses grown in containers, and how to fertilize and mulch. You will be rewarded with beautiful blooms when you practice these techniques on your own roses. The club will also have a door prize, rose raffle, and refreshments after the seminar. There is no cost to attend, and the public is invited. New members who join the rose society (annual dues are $20 per family) will receive a year’s subscription to the club’s award-winning newsletter “Rose Ecstasy” and a 10% annual discount card good at Green Thumb Nursery all year. For more information contact Kitty Belendez at (661) 296-5033, or e-mail rosextckb@aol.com. Please RSVP so that we can provide sufficient seating, handout materials, and refreshments. Visit the Santa Clarita Valley Rose Society web site at www.scvrs.homestead.com.

Sat Jan 14, 2012 – Orchard & Winter Fruit Tree Care at Otto & Sons 10 am – 12 noon (repeated each Saturday this month) 1835 E. Guiberson Road Filmore, Ca. 93015 (805) 524-2123 MUST RSVP for reservation – cost $15.00 – lots of giveaways, home made cookies and… Topics include: Fruit tree selection, Pruning, watering, feeding, pest control mulching. Also – Tom Spellman of Dave Wilson Nursery will demonstrate how to have fruit almost year round and explain how to control the size of your trees.

Sat Jan 14, 2012 – Rose Care University at Otto & Sons 2-4 pm (repeated each Saturday this month) 1835 E. Guiberson Road Filmore, Ca. 93015 (805) 524-2123 MUST RSVP for reservation – cost $15.00 – lots of giveaways, home made cookies and… Learn the fundamentals. Rose pruning, soil management, watering, feeding, Eco-Gardening, and What’s Bugging You?

Saturday January 21, 2012 9 am - 12 noon CLWA – Landscape Education Class
Making the Cut – Proper Rose Pruning Techniques at Castaic Lake Water Agency on the hill above Central Park. Please RSVP to (661) 513-1230.

Sat Jan 21, 2012 – Rose Care University at Otto & Sons 10 am – 12 noon (repeated each Saturday this month) 1835 E. Guiberson Road Filmore, Ca. 93015 (805) 524-2123 MUST RSVP for reservation – cost $15.00 – lots of giveaways, home made cookies and… Learn the fundamentals. Rose pruning, soil management, watering, feeding, Eco-Gardening, and What’s Bugging You?

Sat Jan 28, 2012 – Rose Care University at Otto & Sons 10 am – 12 noon (repeated each Saturday this month) 1835 E. Guiberson Road Filmore, Ca. 93015 (805) 524-2123 MUST RSVP for reservation – cost $15.00 – lots of giveaways, home made cookies and… Learn the fundamentals. Rose pruning, soil management, watering, feeding, Eco-Gardening, and What’s Bugging You?

Descanso Gardens:
Instead of roses, roses, roses Descanso Gardens is all about Camellias these next couple of months and let me tell you – their Camellias are spectacular! Here are a couple events you can attend:

Saturday & Sunday January 14 & 15, 2012 Pacific Camellia Society in Van de Kamp, Maple and Birch http://www.pacificcamellias.org/

Saturday & Sunday January 28 & 29, 2012 Southern California Camellia’s Two-day show includes a plant sale. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Van de Kamp, Maple and Birch.

Here is the link to Descanso’s calendar:

LA Arboretum
Of course there is a rose pruning class this month, and Lili Singer’s classes start up again on Thursdays (starting January 12th) plus there is a square foot gardening class and more!

For more about the upcoming events – check out this link.

Have a great time this month, there is a lot to do in Southern California.

For more about my designs, please visit my website

Wordless Wednesday - As the year ends

2011-12-28T04:00:00.000-08:00

For more about my designs

My Favorite Christmas Song

2011-12-24T04:00:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm Jewish, and yes I know this has nothing to do with gardening, landscape or gardens but I wanted to share my favorite Christmas Song of all time. The Kinks - Father Christmas.

Father Christmas

Enjoy!

If you want to know more about my designs, take a look at my website.

Wordless Wednesday - Holiday Colors -Plant Edition

2011-12-21T04:00:00.000-08:00

Agave lophantho 'Quadricolor' & Aloe plicatilis (San Marcos Growers)

Pink Flowered Oxalis!

Sticks of Fire & Loropetalum

To learn more about me and my designs check my website

Keeping Your Pets Safe at the Holidays - Plants & more

2011-12-17T04:00:00.000-08:00

Scarlett by Marlana Smith

Recently we had a trauma in our household, our dogs ate chocolate. I had come home from a speaking event with four small brownies in one of the boxes of supplies I was carrying, as I arrived home I received one call after another, the first announcing the birth of my great grandnephew, the other a friend in need – so I was occupied with thoughts other than my packages. My son was very helpful, carrying things in for me but he did not know that there were brownies in my carrying case. Not good.

Hours later, I realized that I didn’t know where my son had put the box with the brownies; unfortunately they were placed on the ground which gave easy access to our Lhasa Apso and Yorkshire Terrier. Chocolate is a well-known poison to dogs, so off to the Emergency Veterinarian we went; because of course by this time it was 10pm on a Sunday night. I’m happy to say that the dogs are fine, but my son and I didn’t fare as well. We didn’t sleep much that night and it cost an arm and a leg!

The culprits after their ordeal

This incident made me realize that a blog post about items that are toxic to animals would be perfect for this time of the year. Many of the plants that are holiday gifts are toxic to both dogs and cats, and with some holiday food treat in the mix as well, it is important that you keep things safe for your furry family members.

Here is a(n incomplete) list of things to keep out of reach of your animals.

Plants:

Amaryllis
Cyclamen
Kalanchoe
Mistletoe
Paper White Bulbs
Poinsettia
Flower arrangements that contain Lilies, Holly, most Ferns, Baby’s Breath, and Bird of Paradise to name a few.
Items ON your Christmas tree such as tinsel, garlands, and small ornaments… including their hangers.

Now for the foods:

Hanukkah Gelt (chocolate coins)
Garlic (especially dried)
Onion (ditto)
Raisins, currants, raisins… think fruitcake
Boxes of chocolate candy left on dog face level tables
Coffee (chocolate covered espresso beans are especially lovely)
Nicotine --- cigarettes and cigarette butts
Sugarless gum or mints (xylitol)

For a complete list please check out petpoisonhelpline.com or your veterinarian.

Churchill by Marlana Smith

There are also plenty of plants for your garden that can be a hazard to dogs and especially cats. Sago palms, Hellebores, Angel’s Trumpet, Lantana, Lilies, Foxglove, Oleander, Hemlock, Nightshades, Nicotiana, Primrose, Daffodils, Aloes, Azaleas and many more plants can cause harm and even death to your pets. This means that it is very important to make sure that when you are designing your garden, you know what you are planting or you hire someone that does. One of my highest priorities is to make sure that your family, including both pets and children, are safe in their new sanctuary. Make sure that when you interview your landscape professional that you ask lots of questions to assess their knowledge of plant material as it relates to your furry friends!

For more about my designs, please visit my website

Wordless Wednesday - Some favorites

2011-12-14T04:00:00.000-08:00

Aloe Flowers

Fremontodendron californicahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

Agave Moon

To learn more about me and my designs check my website

How To Care For Gaura

2011-12-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

One of the shining stars of my front garden is my gaura – it is big, beautiful, and can be a real show stopper. The most important thing I’ve learned about planting these beauties, is to give them lots of room! They do get as big as they say, up to 3’x3’ depending on variety so they are definitely middle of the border perennials – NOT front of the border.

Your gaura will flower non-stop from April until the end of October and as I write this post starting the second week of December mine is still in bloom! This plant is great because it is drought tolerant and does not need a whole lot of care.

This photo shows how nicely Gaura works with other perennials like this Cuphea Starfire.

During the first year, you want to water your plant regularly, even keeping the soil somewhat moist during it’s first growing season. After that, you can water it only when it gets hot and dry (summer in Southern California). By low maintenance, I mean you don’t really need to do anything to it, however if you remove the dead flowers (dead head it) and remove seed heads during its blooming season you will increase the new blooms and prolong the blooming period. Fertilizing is also a good idea, try a nice balanced organic granular fertilizer monthly. Stop fertilizing when it gets cool (December) and start up again in spring.

To maintain the size and shape of your gaura you should cut the plant down to 10 inches in the spring of its second season then thinning each spring after that. Your plant will branch out and become more like a shrub (perfect for the middle border). Thinning should be accomplished by removing excess growth (crossing and errant branches first). At the end of the blooming season the only thing you need to do is prune out dead or diseased foliage – which will help prevent pests and diseases.

So, you don't need to do much now (December) but keep this in mind for the spring!

If you want to know more about me or my designs check out my website.

Wordless Wednesday - December Daze

2011-12-07T04:00:00.000-08:00

What To Do In Your Southern California Garden In December

2011-12-03T04:00:00.000-08:00

We are heading full throttle into the holiday season, and lucky Southern Californians still have gardening chores to do! Don’t complain, instead of shoveling snow, you are shoveling sunshine (and raking leaves).

Here is your monthly garden chore list for December, tack it to your fridge and plow through it or… have a cup of eggnog and leave it to next year – your choice!

1. Rake leaves – Keep those holiday decorations in view (and some of the beautiful plant we are lucky to be able to enjoy) by keeping up on those leaves. We always have some windy days this time of year, so they are going to pile up for sure! While the east coast is shoveling, we are raking and as a transplant I am thankful for that every year.

2. Plant winter blooming shrubs, perennials, and vines – Some of my favorites are Hardenbergis, Ceanothus, Clivia, Carolina Jessamine, Breath of Heavenm and Cyclamen. You can use the cyclamen as holiday décor and since they are bulbs and the weather here is mild, you’ll likely have them come back a few years in a row.

3. Water your living Christmas tree regularly – If you have a fresh cut tree you need to check it each day to make sure that it doesn’t dry out and start dropping needles. The heaters in our homes add to the drying effects and speed evaporation.

4. Start Patioscaping – It is time to update your container designs! I have pumpkins and squash adorning my harvest based planting designs, so it is time to cook them and replace them with white pumpkins, plastic icicles, and this year I’m adding strings of lights to the taller plants!

5. Add winter annuals for holiday décor – If you add some festive annuals to your perennial garden they will be the icing on your holiday decorating cake! Cyclamen (mentioned above) begonias, and pansies can be planted in swaths that will greet your guests as they arrive at your beautifully decorated entry!

6. Prune fall blooming shrubs & vines – Shrubs and vines that have bloomed can be trimmed back now in readiness for their next season.

7. Tis the season…for planting California natives - Continuing on through fall and winter. Timing is great because your plants will receive the winter water that comes around and they appreciate not to be planted in the hot, hot heat that we are sure to have come summer.

8. Feed flowering plants with high phosphorus fertilizer - Yes, I said it was getting cold for fertilizer utilization but if you have showy blooming plants like Plumeria which bloom June and later it is a good time to fertilize them. The phosphorus (second number on the label) is absorbed over time, so giving it six months to work on those blooms is a good idea.

9. Plant winter veggies - You can still plant leafy greens, bok choy, perennial & cool weather loving herbs (parsley, dill, & cilantro). Succession planting of the leafy greens is a great idea because you can harvest as you make salad and always have more for next week!

10. Keep your eyes open for bare root plants – You can keep an eye open for bare root plants, in California we can plant them right through February. Fruit trees, grapes, roses – keep a look out for your favorites and save money!

11. Watch for signs of frost – Read my blog post about the warning signs, pay attention to the weather and think about protecting your citrus trees by stringing some Christmas lights on them to keep the air warm around them, and they’ll be extra festive!

12. Mulch! If you didn’t throw that 3” blanket of mulch on your plants in November – now is a great time to do it. The mulch will keep them warm, discourage weeds, and help retain the winter rains.

I know it is a busy month, so I hope having this list helps you organize your garden time so you can spend some holiday time with the ones you love! Feel free to contact me if you have any other questions. If you want to see more of my designs take a look at my website.

Happy Gardening!
xo,
Julie

Wordless Wednesday - Blazing Leaves

2011-11-30T04:00:00.000-08:00

Maple leaves

Sage against autumn leaves

Colorful leaves

For more about my designs, please take a look at my website

What's Happening in souther California - Garden Edition December 2011

2011-11-26T04:00:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday - Chrysanthemums at Descanso Gardens

2011-11-23T04:00:00.000-08:00

Purple Intermediate Incurve Chrysanthemum

Yellow Spider Chrysanthemum

Fancy (don't know what kind of) Chrysanthemum

For more about my designs take a look at my website

Gifts that keep on keepin' on!

2011-11-19T04:00:00.000-08:00

If you are reading my blog you just might be a plant lover! If that is the case, why not give some beautiful plants to those lucky enough to be on your list?

Creating a beautiful container design for your friends ensure that you are on their minds all year. Here are a few tips for creating a great design:

Decide whether you want to go for holiday colors or your friend's color scheme and stick to it!

Pick a beautiful container (and make sure it is large enough for all you want to put in it) if you are in SCV, try Green Thumb Nursery or Green Nursery, they both have fantastic selections!

Select a stand out plant as your “thriller” and build around that. Camellias are a nice choice as are an agave and echiverea, or one of my favorites a Duranta. (Yes, your friends will eventually replant them into the garden as they grow too large --- added bonus!)

Think outside the box – what about throwing in some edibles as filler? This is a great time to design using leafy greens! My favorites are red mustard, a beautiful red veined sorrel, and arugula (because I use it in salads to spice things up).

Don’t forget something cascading – it gives you three layers of plants and adds dimension.

Add a surprise to your container. Bury some bulbs of beautiful spring flowers in your container and you will certainly delight your friends again come springtime.

I love designing containers; as a matter of fact I love designing! For more about my landscape designs, take a look at my website

Wordless Wednesday - November's Beauty

2011-11-16T04:00:00.000-08:00

Cassia in bloom

Hachiya Persimmon

Tumble Weed! Wind alert

For more about my designs please visit my website.

My Favorite Books

2011-11-12T04:00:00.000-08:00

I have been taking both my portfolio and a couple of favorite books with me lately on first time client meetings and they have been met with great excitement!

I have had more than one person ask me to send them links to one or the other of the books I carry or have been furiously scribbling away while we are looking at beautiful, inspirational photographs.

I love to get new ideas from other talented designers and horticulturalists and both of these books give me inspiration every time I turn the pages.

I was lucky to attend a book signing last year sponsored by APLD where Carol Bornstein and Bart O'Brien were speaking. I had been anxiously awaiting the publication of their book, Reimagining The California Lawn, (written along with David Fross) since I had heard Carol speak during the summer of 2010 at the Pacific Horticultural Symposium. This book has proved to be everything that I had anticipated and more. I thought it would just be for my use, but find that it inspires my clients to think outside their standard comfort zone because the photographs are so amazing.

I have always loved edibles, since I have been a kid in New York, our family had fruit trees, berry bushes, and always a vegetable garden. I have been adding edibles to my garden designs when ever even the slightest opportunity presents itself. When I heard about the next book - I was VERY excited! I have never had the opportunity to meet Ivette Soler, author of the Edible Front Yard, but I follow her on twitter and was kept up to date on the status of her book until its publication. This book has beautiful photographs by Ann Summa and is a must have for anyone thinking of adding edibles to their landscape - either in the front yard, or anywhere else.

I hope you take a moment to look at the links to these books, gain some inspiration, and maybe add to your collection.

Enjoy!

For more about my designs, please check out my website.

Wordless Wednesday - Happy Birthday Aidan & Loren!

2011-11-09T04:00:00.000-08:00

Toyon Berries

Santa Barbara Daisy

Sedum 'Autumn Joy'

For more about my designs visit my website

What To Do In Your Southern California Garden in November

2011-11-05T04:00:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we “Fall Back” (if you are reading this in 2011) don’t forget to set your clocks back an hour and enjoy and extra hour of sleep. I am a winter baby and a night bird, so I just love this time of year! I hope you enjoy it too.

Here is your list of gardening chores for November, grab a cup of cocoa, a hot spiced cider, put your gardening gloves on and get out into that Southern California Garden!

1. Plant Winter Vegetables – If you haven’t turned over your summer veggie crops to winter, get a move on! I’m big on bok choy and Chinese vegetables this year, and I’m tucking a lot of leafy greens and leafy red greens (oxymoron?) into my container designs! Even if you don’t love deep red mustard greens to eat, they pack a powerful punch with some blood red snapdragons in a pot! For more about those winter edibles, check out my post. How To Grow Winter Veggies

2. Plant Cool Season Herbs – Try some dill, parsley, cilantro, and chives. They flourish in the cooler weather. Your tender summer herbs like basils and French tarragon can be put into pretty pots and brought into the kitchen to extend their use. Your oregano, thyme, rosemary and sage should continue to do just fine, they are perennial and don’t need replanting.

3. Fall Clean Up – Clear out around your fruit trees. It is time to discard old leaves under your trees, split fruit, you can also check your berry plants. Remove old raspberry & blackberry canes now – and let the plants breath. You can also thin them out and move some to new locations.

4. Plant Winter Blooming Shrubs, vines, and perennials. Plant your Clivia, Carolina Jessaming Hardenbergia, Breath of Heaven, Ceanothus, and Cyclamen (which are a great Christmas addition) now and they will be well established and blooming in the winter months

5. Select new deciduous trees – November is a great time to select a colorful new tree for your yard. If you select while the leaves are changing you are more likely to get just the color you like best. Remember planting on the south or west side of your home will help save energy. Cooling you house in summer, and defoliating in winter to let more sun into your home.

6. Prune Evergreen Trees - November is the time to trim evergreen shrubs; you can also remove & replace overgrown shrubs if necessary. Don’t prune evergreen OAKS!!!! They should be pruned in the summer.

7. California Native Plants - This is an excellent time start planting that native garden you planned last month, Fall and winter are the best time to plant natives because your plants will receive the winter water that comes around and they are happy not to be planted in the hot, hot heat.

8. Plant Cool Season Annuals - Peruse your local nursery, the cool season annuals are starting to show up, ageratum, and pansies – also think out of the box and plant some kale or mustard greens in pots or right in the ground. Annuals don’t make up a very large part of my garden style, but they sure can add punch to a garden that is maturing.

9. Fertilize - This should be your last fertilizer application of the year—that includes your lawn! So don’t let this opportunity slip by. You’ll want to feed citrus trees with a citrus fertilizer at a rate of 1 pound per foot of tree spread. It is also a great time to fertilize summer bloomers with a high organic phosphorus fertilizer. The phosphorus takes some time to absorb into the plant so November application will mean May – July flowering plants. Remember that the organics will be dog attractants, so be sure to keep an eye on those digging pups!
Note for Palm Trees, shrubs, and ornamentals:

I like slow-release fertilizers because they provide a steady supply of nutrients for the plants over a long period of time. The main advantage of a slow release fertilizer is its convenience. As you can imagine, slow release fertilizers do not need to be applied as often as water-soluble fertilizers. The optimum fertilizer regimen is three applications per year: once in early spring, once in early summer, and once in late fall. Use a balanced fertilizer (equal numbers) with micronutrients.

Give those houseplants their last fertilizer for the winter too – lower light, and heaters will stress them out if you force more growth, but please don’t stop watering them!

10. Plant Citrus Trees – There is still a nice selection of fruit trees, and they might be on sale to make room for Christmas Trees! Check your local nursery (not big box stores) for the varieties that grow best in your area.

11. Repot Cacti & Succulents – If they are outgrowing their container and are not in bloom, it is a good time to give them a new fresh look for the holidays? Who doesn’t like a new outfit

12. Look for Bare Root Plants – You can keep an eye open for bare root plants, in California we can plant them right through February. Fruit trees, grapes, roses – keep a look out for your favorites and save money!

13. Notice the Shadows - Take a little time during this time of the year to notice how the shadows are changing around your landscape. Notice what is getting sun and what is getting shade, it might shed some light on why some of your plants are not thriving. You may not realize what little sun they are really getting during the winter months, and by noticing you might decide to transplant a few. Since the time has changed you will get a completely different view than last month!

14. Mulch! - Don’t forget to apply a nice 3” layer of mulch to your plants. It will keep them warm, discourage weeds, and help retain the winter rains.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me, I’m available for consultations, and designs – I would love to be a part of your project!

I would also like to remind you that next Sunday November 13, 2011 – Tami Smight and I are going on a Design Destination and we’d love to have you along.
Designers Tami Smight & Julie Molinare have been shopping flea markets & antique stores for select clients, let them help you find one of a kind treasures for your home and garden. On Sunday November 13, 2011 you are invited to….

Learn how to shop like a designer with a guided tour of the Rose Bowl Flea Market

Gain creative inspiration from two designers for the day!
Lean the art of accessorizing your home and garden!
Purchase one of a kind treasures that will make your home/garden sing!

Details:

Sunday November 13, 2011
8:00 am: Meet at Courtyard by Marriott parking lot
Return between 1-3 pm
Dress for sunny, warm weather (layers work well) bring a hat & water!
Carry your own purchases to the car
Food and drinks available for purchase at the Bowl
Bring cash for purchases (some vendors do accept cc)
Your investment is $275/person --- discount!!! $250/person
Fee includes transportation, parking, admission, items selection assistance & design advice.

This event is limited to only five (5) people and we only have THREE (3) spots left!
email our team email and we will coordinate payment via cash, check or credit card
harmonioushome@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net

Wordless Wednesday - Texture & Color

2011-11-02T04:00:00.000-07:00

Melianthus major

Hibiscus syriacus (Rose of Sharon)

Texas Ranger & friend

For more about my designs, please visit my website

What’s Happening In Southern California – Garden Edition November 2011

2011-10-29T04:00:00.000-07:00

As always, I want to remind you to shop local, and get the freshest produce around by heading out to the local Farmer’s Markets in Santa Clarita:

Sundays 8:00am – noon
College of The Canyons Parking Lot
Don’t forget to visit my friend Sarah from Worldwide Exotics

There is also another great Farmer’s Market:
Thursdays in Old Town Newhall from 3-7pm.

On to Gardening Fun!

November 5, 2011

Native Plant Lecture

10 am to 12 noon at: College of the Canyons - Canyon Country Campus
17200 Sierra Highway, Carl A. Rasmussen Amphitheater
Santa Clarita, California 91351

This is the first lecture in a series that will explore native gardening while helping community members learn how they can adopt some of the environmentally sensitive and drought tolerant gardening techniques the Canyon Country campus has implemented into its landscaping design. This lecture will be presented by Kathy Sloan, an adjunct biology professor from the college and is appropriate for community members including children in grades 4 through 6. During the tour portion of the event, attendees will have the opportunity to take in the various natural settings and scenic views that make the Canyon Country campus so unique, while learning about the various drought-proof and fire-resistant landscape designs employed by the college.

Rose Society Show

12:30 – 4:30 at: William S. Hart Park / Hart Hall
24151 Newhall Avenue
Santa Clarita, California 91321

The public is invited to attend free of charge. Everyone is welcome to exhibit their home-grown roses at the show, including novices and children. You do not have to be a member of the rose society to exhibit, and there are no entry fees. Simply bring your roses in a container of water, and the rose society will furnish the vases and the entry tags. There will be 76 prizes. A free bouquet of roses will be given to new members who join the rose society at the rose show. Annual membership dues are $20, which includes 9 issues of the 12-page, award-winning newsletter “Rose Ecstasy” e-mailed in full color. For a complete show schedule and exhibit rules, contact Kitty Belendez at (661) 296-5033, or e-mail rosextckb@aol.com. Visit the Santa Clarita Valley Rose Society web page at www.scvrs.homestead.com for extensive information about roses

November 13, 2011

Head out to a Design Destination!

Designers Tami Smight & Julie Molinare have been shopping flea markets & antique stores for select clients, let them help you find one of a kind treasures for your home and garden. On Sunday November 13, 2011 you are invited to….

Learn how to shop like a designer with a guided tour of the Rose Bowl Flea Market

Gain creative inspiration from two designers for the day!
Lean the art of accessorizing your home and garden!
Purchase one of a kind treasures that will make your home/garden sing!

Details:

Sunday November 13, 2011
8:00 am: Meet at Courtyard by Marriott parking lot (in Santa Clarita at the 126)
Return between 1-3 pm
Dress for sunny, warm weather (layers work well) bring a hat & water!
Carry your own purchases to the car
Food and drinks available for purchase at the Bowl
Bring cash for purchases (some vendors do accept cc)
Your investment is $275/person --- Blog discount!!! $250/person
Fee includes transportation, parking, admission, items selection assistance & design advice.

This event is limited to only five (5) people!
email our team email and we will coordinate payment via cash, check or credit card
harmonioushome@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net

November 19, 2011

Landscape Education Class 9 am to noon
Soils & Fertilizers for the SCV – at Castaic Lake Water Agency on the hill above Central Park. Please RSVP to (661) 513-1230

There is a lot going on at Green Thumb (Newhall) Nursery this month! Green Thumb is located at: 23734 Newhall Avenue in Newhall, CA 91321 (661) 259-1071

November 12, 2011

Christmas Open House
This is a great event! Sandy bakes cookies; there will be a book signing “The Great Mrs. Claus” and the store is decorated to the hilt.

November 19, 2011

Christmas Tree Design at 10:00 am – This seminar will be presented by Kirki Coleman, and if you have seen the fantastic trees at the store over the years, you know that she REALLY knows what she is talking about.

November 25, 2011

BLACK FRIDAY – stay tuned for the a variety of events and there will be another book signing!

Descanso Gardens:
They have so much going here is a couple that I consider highlights:

11/5-6/11 – Chrysanthemum Show
11/1211 – Fruit Tree Pruning

and here is the link to their calendar:

LA Arboretum
This month 11/5-6/11 is Winter Cactus Show & Sale, as the Thursday talks with Lili Singer and Talks by Mike Brown. Click on the link for a complete listing.

Would you like to shop with TWO designers? Go on a Design Destination this month with Julie Molinare & Tami Smight – November 13, 2011 at the Rose Bowl Flea Market. You can send and email to HarmoniousHome@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net to reserve your spot! We are limiting this to ONLY FIVE people!!!

If you want to be reminded of all our upcoming events & receive awesome design tips please visit HarmoniousHomeTeam.com and sign up now!

Wordless Wednesday - Out of The Darkness Walk

2011-10-26T04:00:00.000-07:00

Although I took lots of pretty plant photos on my walk, I just had to share some of the other sights I saw. I hope you enjoy them! Thank you to all of you that supported me, in getting to and exceeding my fundraising goal!

For more about my designs, take a look at my website!

Flea Market Finds

2011-10-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

My friend and colleague Tami Smight and I share a love for antiques. We use them in our homes and gardens and we love to talk about them at Design Seminars around town.

Recently Tami & I had a chance to sit down and discuss how she came to love adding personality to her home and the homes of her clients re-using pieces of art and antiques.

Tami and I became friends a few years ago and I have been lucky enough to partner up with her on projects and in the Harmonious Home Team along with Elaine Giftos Wright. Tami is originally from Chicago, so we both enjoy the vibe and excitement when we head out east. Tami was an RN at UCLA, so she came to Interior Design with a special talent for nurturing and she helps her clients learn about themselves, their homes, and their design style. Inspired by her mother and sisters, she has had a thriving Interior Design business in Santa Clarita, California since 2004.

Julie: When did you start collecting antiques?

Tami: 1998 was the year we bought our current home, I started buying antiques to add character to our home because buying used items kept me within my budget –I found that I was drawn to them because they were beautiful, full of character and really became a part of my style.

J: Has anyone in particular influence your love of antiques & eclectic pieces?

T: Sue Sargent, my friend Dave’s mom. She was an antique dealer that I really looked up to. Since we are transplants Sue & Dave have invited us over for Christmas each year. I loved her home – I would spend time looking at all the pieces (and drool over many) and I couldn’t help but notice that it made her home feel comfortable and down to earth… and I love that! I also love that she would specially choose vintage toys for her grandchildren, so she was actually giving them precious heirlooms for the next generation.

J: It sounds like you feel she was creating family memories, I know when I have heard you speak about the holidays that plays into your tips.

T: Yes! I love creating family memories; I love that each gift can have a special story behind it. I want my children to have those kinds of memories too, and later to create them.

J: Why do you think antiques add to your home and garden décor?

T: They add an instant sense of history, they also give your space patina – and I love that. I love to mix old and new pieces; it gives the space the sense that it has been furnished over time, with love and care. It tells a story too.

J: What kind of people might think about adding antiques to their home and garden?

T: Anyone can benefit! I think it is great to start small, so you feel comfortable; take the container planting you have in your yard and replace it with an antique vessel of some sort, you can re-use the same plants – but give it a whole new look! You could also add some architectural elements - old iron finials, an armillary or an antique birdbath added to your planter bed would make them more of a focal point.

J: Where do you shop for antiques?

T: I started at the local Antique Mall, but my favorite is the monthly Rose Bowl Flea Market. I started two years as a fun outing and I go a few times each year now. I love to shop there because there is always an abundance of each type of piece I’m looking for so that I can both price shop, and style shop.

J: How do you select the right pieces?

T: I think it is good to start with a goal in mind, but keep an open mind. If something speaks to you – buy it! You’ll find the right place for it.

J: Can anyone shop for special pieces?

T: Yes, but it sure helps to have designers to inspire and guide you. Designers are also great about placement. You want your pieces well displayed, not hidden away in a corner or cabinet.

J: What do you bring with you when you shop?

T: If I have an area in mind I bring dimension, like for example the size of a wall I want a piece for. I also bring a tape measure, comfortable shoes, a hat, water and … an open mind!

J: Do you have a favorite piece that you have picked up over the years?

T: Yes! Now this shows just how you have to be in the right place at the right time. I went uncharacteristically unprepared and arrived at a stand just as the French dealer that I've been dying to buy a piece from was unloading her truck. When she unveiled a pair of blue shutters, I knew they would be perfect for my stairway. As I mentioned I didn't have a tape to measure them with, but when I got them home they fit to within ½” !

J: Obviously they were yours. That's the beauty of shopping with someone that has impeccable fashion sense!

Tami and I really enjoyed hanging around and chatting, about antiques but more importantly we enjoy shopping for them! So… we’re headed out to the Rose Bowl Flea Market on Sunday November 13, 2011 and … we’d love for you to join us!

Here are the details:

8:00 am: Meet at Courtyard by Marriott parking lot (Santa Clarita, Ca.)
· Return between 1-3 pm
· Dress for sunny, warm weather (layers work well) bring a hat & water!
· Carry your own purchases to the car
· Food and drinks available for purchase at the Bowl
· Bring cash for purchases (some vendors do accept cc)
· Your investment is $275/person --- Blogger discount!!! $250/person
· Fee includes transportation, parking, admission, items selection assistance & design advice

This event is limited to only five (5) people!
email our team email and we will coordinate payment via cash, check or credit card

harmonioushome@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net for reservation

If you want to know more about Tami, check out her website ... and you can look at my website too while you're at it.

Wordless Wednesday - Autumn Blooms

2011-10-19T04:00:00.000-07:00

Iochroma

Caesalpinia sp.

Calistemon 'Little John'

For more about my designs, visit my website

How to Care for Cuphea

2011-10-15T04:00:00.000-07:00

Cuphea plants are great shrubs/perennials (depends on who you talk to) they are evergreen and come in lots of different sizes and colors. They can be used as a border plant, ground cover, or to fit a tight spot. I love that they are colorful, easy care, and in some cases just the right size for the overly small planter beds that I sometimes come up against! There are two very different types of cuphea that grow nicely in Southern California, the hysopifolia type (Mexican Heathers) which are a more shrub like type with wood stems and the ignea and lutea types (cigar plants) which are more like perennials with a softer stem.

Mexican Heathers (woody types)

Photo courtesy of Worldwide Exotics

These like good drainage with regular garden water. They attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bees and are easily pruned to shape. The young plants are happy when given a fertilizer with extra phosphorus. This encourages root development, which in turn leads to beautiful flowers. Phosphorus is the second number on the fertilizer bag – so look for a higher middle number and you will have the right type. Well-established plants will also benefit from fertilization – especially in the spring.

Deadhead the flower blooms so you get lots more blooms during the growing season. If you aren’t sure what deadheading is, I’ll explain. Deadheading is pinching back the dead flowers at their base. When you do this you allow the plant to utilize the available nutrients for growing – not send nutrients to the dead flower head.

Cigar Plant (softer, more perennial types)

These types are known by the common name of cigar plant and firecracker plant. They have a long cigar shaped flower, in red/orange, pink, and even a yellow – they are very attractive to hummingbirds. They flower from summer and can last well into the winter months – only being cut off when frost (may) hit.

Once your cigar plant is well established in your garden it is a good idea to pinch it back at the tips, this will encourage more branching and in turn that means more flowers… You should prune your Cuphea so that it stays neat; it is also a pretty rapid grower so if you select one that is too large for the area you’ll need to keep up on it to keep it contained. You can also prune it back to the ground to promote healthy, new growth. So prune hard in early spring and late fall to shape. They don’t bloom well in full shade, but a little protection from mid day sun is good and make sure that you don’t over water.

If you live in a cold area the plant can be grown as a perennial by over wintering the plants indoors.

For more about my blog please visit my website!

Wordless Wednesday - Autumn Colors, Summer Heat

2011-10-12T04:00:00.000-07:00

Troy the Tortoise

Chrysanthemums

"Baby" Pumpkins

For more about my designs, visit my website.

Just a note...

2011-10-08T04:00:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

Today is Yom Kippur, the day of Atonement for Jews all over the world. So I'm skipping my blog post for today but putting up lovely Pincushion flower for you to enjoy.

I'll add a post about caring for Cuphea in the next couple of days, so you won't be without your garden tips this week. Just not today.

Peace, peace to the far and to the near!
- Isaiah 57.19

Wordless Wednesday - Harvest Heat

2011-10-05T04:00:00.000-07:00

Yellow Trumpet Vine

Fennel & Gaura

Red Hot Roses

For more about my designs, please visit my website!

Chores for your Southern California Garden - October

2011-10-01T04:00:00.000-07:00

October is a great time to plant and do chores in Southern California! The weather is moderating a little, it’s not so blazing hot in the valleys but it is still warm enough so that the plants can really settle in and they can grow, grow, grow.

Here is a list of chores for you to fill your weekends with, because this is doubtlessly the start of the best months to be outdoors.

1. Divide Your Iris - If you haven’t divided your irises in the past 2-4 years, this is a great time to do that. You can plant your new divisions (and new plant if you want) because although September is optimal – October ain’t half bad either. Check out my post How to Care for Iris – to get all the details.

2. Plant New Plants - Love the idea of a year round (or three season) garden? This is a great time to buy and plant fall and winter blooming perennials and shrubs like Sedum Brilliant, Caryopteris, Echinacea, clivia, some ceanothus, nandinas (colorful leaves and berries) and more!

3. Cool Season Vegetable Tip - You can still be sowing your cool season vegetable seeds and as the month progresses you can plant 6 packs and 4” pots of those same veggies. I’m planning on planting lot of bok choy this year, because last year mine was FANTASTIC. You can also plant broccoli, kale, and lettuces… to name a few!

4. Colorful Autumn Trees - Keep your eyes open for trees that display fall color, they are starting to show their “true colors” so if you want a specific color autumn display October and November are good times to buy and plant those deciduous trees. Since your garden is yours, you can truly create a sanctuary by picking the plants (and colors) that you love!

5. Prune Your Trees - This month is also a nice time to prune your trees, it is cooling off so if you prune now and reduce your branches and therefore leaves, you will have less to rake as they fall. (this is not Oak pruning time)

6. California Native Plants - This is an excellent time to plan your native garden, the end of the month is the start of the native planting season because the fall and winter are the best time to plant them. You grab the winter water that comes around and you don’t plan them in the hot, hot heat.

7. Cool Season Annuals - Peruse your local nursery, the cool season annuals are starting to show up, including ornamental kale (one of my favorites for containers). Annuals don’t make up a very large part of my garden style, but they sure can add punch to a garden that is maturing

8. Beautiful Blooming Bulbs - You can continue to plant winter and spring blooming bulbs. The nurseries have a nice selection right now, as do online sources. They make an excellent addition to a container as well – and if you’re memory isn’t what it used to be will become an element of surprise when they burst into bloom.

9. Plant Ground Cover – Ground cover grows quite quickly during the month of October, it is warm enough but not too hot so it is easier to regulate your water and the plants tend not to dry out too easily. Look around to see where you could use some ground cover.

10. Prune Fall Flowering Plants – shrubs, and vines can be cut back now once they have finished blooming. The pruning will encourage new growth and flowers for next year.

11. Pumpkins, pumpkins, pumpkins! – If you haven’t grown your own, it’s time to shop for unusual pumpkins, squash and gourds! They make an excellent decoration throughout the holidays. Tami & I had such fun at our event a couple weeks ago talking about decorating. If you would like a copy of our presentation, please feel free to add your name to our Harmonious Home Team event list. We’ll be happy to send you the PowerPoint version of our presentation.

12. Fertilize cacti & succulents – it is a nice time to give a shot of fertilizer to blooming and growing succulents and cacti both in pots and in the ground.

13. Notice the Shadows - Take a little time during this time of the year to notice how the shadows are changing around your landscape. Notice what is getting sun and what is getting shade, it might shed some light on why some of your plants are not thriving. You may not realize what little sun they are really getting during the winter months, and by noticing you might decide to transplant a few.

14. Houseplants could use some TLC – Your indoor plants can use a little fertilizer, a spritz of water or maybe even a few hours outdoors in the sun or dappled sun (depending on the plant) to allow it to soak up some light for chlorophyll production.

Join Tami Smight and Julie Molinare at our Complimentary Design Seminar on October 9, 2011 at the Rose Society of Santa Clarita and learn how to “Make Your Garden Sing!” If you want a reminder of our event, as well as a copy of our Power Point Presentation, “How to Create Fall Harvest Splendor” please visit Harmonious Home Team.com and sign up now!

Wordless Wednesday - Up & Down

2011-09-28T04:00:00.000-07:00

Chorisia speciosa

Mysterious Mushrooms

Grevillea robusta in bloom

For more about my designs take a look at my website!

What’s Happening In Southern California – Garden Edition October 2011

2011-09-24T04:00:00.000-07:00

As always, I want to remind you to shop local, and get the freshest produce around by heading out to the local Farmer’s Markets in Santa Clarita:

Sundays 8:00am – noon
College of The Canyons Parking Lot
Don’t forget to visit my friend Sarah from Worldwide Exotics

There is also another great Farmer’s Market:
Thursdays in Old Town Newhall from 3-7pm.

Now for Events:

Starting on Sept 30, and running through October 29, 2011 - The Canyon Theatre Guild is presenting, “Dracula” Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm with a matinee on Sundays. The Canyon Theatre Guild
24242 Main Street, Newhall, CA or visit canyontheatre.org

October 1, 2011 - Large Estate Sale, there are several houses participating, 9 - 6 or by appointment. Call for further info 661-735-2735. 24701 Amelia Lane (in Placerito Cyn off Placeritos) Note: One of my clients is selling some large garden statuary – in case you’re in the market.

October 9, 2011 – "Make Your Garden Sing!" Tami Smight & Julie Molinare will be speaking to the Santa Clarita Valley Rose Society at 2:30 pm. The Rose Society meets at the Senior Center located at: 22900 Market St., Newhall, California. The meeting is open to the public, so please plan on attending! RSVP to rsvp@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net code: RSGB1009 or… just show up!

October 10, 2011 - Support Team Mo and the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention by EATING. (or by donating to my link, or walking or…) We are having a fundraiser at New Moon Restaurant - 28281 Newhall Ranch Rd., Valencia

October 12 – 13, 2011. If you are a landscaper, I expect to see you at the LIS Show in Long Beach, I’ll be at the show helping out at the NAPWL booth and the seminars. If you are a Woman in Landscaping – check out our website, you’ll be glad you did! NAPWL is the National Association of Professional Women in Landscape.

October 15, 2011 – Green Thumb Nursery is having a Seminar: Winter Flowers/Spring Blooming Bulbs – presented by Bryan Payne at 10:00 am. Green Thumb is located at: 23734 Newhall Avenue in Newhall, CA 91321 (661) 259-1071

October 15, 2011 from 9 am – noon - CLWA – Landscape Education Class
Add Shade to your Garden – Appropriate Tress for SCV at Castaic Lake Water Agency on the hill above Central Park. Please RSVP to (661) 513-1230

October 16, 2011 – Come out to the Community Gardens of Santa Clarita and help us Plant our Native Garden! We are creating a garden so that Santa Clarita residents can see how water wise, beneficial attracting, California native plants can be a wonderful addition to your garden. 9 am at the Central Park Site. We can always use a helping hand!

October 21-23, 2011 – Presentations that Sell Boot Camp. If you have ever even thought about public speaking, you HAVE to come to this amazing event. Maurice DiMino is The Sicilian Mentor and he will share his secrets, tips, and tricks in this amazing three day event. If you would like to attend, you can use my discount code: Greener when you register. Here's the link again - Presentations That Sell Yes… I’ll be attending.

October 22, 2011 – Please consider walking with or donating to Team Mo as we participate in the Out of the Darkness Community Walk in Santa Monica. You can donate at my page, or contact me about walking with our team. It is a great day, easy walk, inspirational event, and lots of fun. (Yes, I’ll be doing this AND Maurice’s class in the same day…)

October 21,22 and 23rd 9:30 am to 4:00 pm (Friday, Saturday & Sunday)
Worldwide Exotic's Fall Plant Sale!
25% discount off your entire purchase on above days only CASH OR CHECK ONLY PLEASE
They are located at: 11157 Orcas Ave. Sylmar, Ca 91342 phone: 818-890-1915 (tell them Julie sent you!) Check out their website

October 23, 2011 – Green Thumb Nursery is having a Department 56 Event – Artist Signing. They have a great selection of Department 56, if you’re a collector – this is the place to be. 23734 Newhall Avenue in Newhall, CA 91321 (661) 259-1071

Descanso Gardens:
They have so much going on so here is a link to the October Calendar and a couple suggestions that I consider highlights:

10/1/11 – Plan your Native garden at 11 and Fall Organic Vegetable Gardening at 1:30. 10/7 – 8/11 - Fall Plant Sale and on the 8th Camellia collection sneak peek. 10/15/11 – Planting with Perennial Grasses & Grass Festival… I’ll stop now, there is a lot going on. Check it out!

LA Arboretum:
Here is a link to their events. This month 10/1/11 is a tree pruning class, 10/15/11 – Design Basics for Drought Tolerant Plants as well as the Thursday talks with Lili Singer and Saturday talks by Mike Brown. Click on the link for a complete listing.

Would you like a beautifully designed, accessorized, well-dressed garden?
Join Tami Smight and I at our Lecture on October 9, 2011 at the Rose Society of Santa Clarita and learn how to “Make Your Garden Sing!” If you want a reminder of our event, as well as a copy of our Power Point Presentation, “How to Create Fall Harvest Splendor” please visit HarmoniousHomeTeam.com and sign up now!

Wordless Wednesday - Fall Flowers

2011-09-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Crinum asiaticum

Zinnia

Asters

Sharing an Autumn Blog Post

2011-09-16T04:00:00.000-07:00

I would like to share a great blog post from my friend and colleague, Tami Smight, of Tami Smight Interiors. The post is called, Decorating Your Home with Fall Colors, Inside & Out and it aligns perfectly with my fall decorating plans.

Tami & I work so well together, because she is just so much fun, is easy to work with, and creative! Please think about seeing us "in action" this weekend as we share our design tips at Fall Harvest Splendor Inside & Out.

* COMPLIMENTARY DESIGN SEMINAR*
Tami Smight, Interior Designer & Julie Molinare, Landscape Designer
September 17, 2011 - 10 am – 12 noon at Green Thumb Nursery 23734 Newhall Avenue. Newhall, CA. 91321

We will present fall harvest inspired design elements to enhance your garden and celebrate the splendor of fall. With proper planning, you will enjoy the fall garden decor through the December holidays.

You don't want to miss this event!
Send an email to: rsvp@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net with your name and code GB917. We’d love to see you there!
For more about my designs, please visit my website

Wordless Wednesday - Ventura Harbor

2011-09-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

Please join Tami Smight & Julie Molinare on Saturday September 17th at Green Thumb on Newhall Avenue in Newhall for Fall Harvest Splendor Inside & Out at 10 am rsvp@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net code GB917

Autumn Plants & Planting

2011-09-10T04:00:00.000-07:00

I know I should be writing about care of a plant this week, but it’s hot and I’m tired and well… I just don’t feel like thinking about maintenance today. I’d rather talk about some fun autumn plants and maybe I’ll tell you how to take care of one or two.

What I like about Autumn plants and Autumn planting:

Autumn plants give you an extra pop of color. What a relief after it’s been hot and crackly looking all around you. It feels like it’s never going to end, the hills look burnt (and sometimes they are burning), which makes you feel even hotter then… the cool.

To achieve your year round California Garden (or anywhere for that matter) it is a great time to take advantage of some of the plants that you couldn’t get when you planted in March.

So let’s think about adding Caryopteris, Helenium, Asters and Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ or ‘Brilliant’. The sedum bloom in both spring and autumn and all you have to do is cut them way back after they bloom and let them come back up again – purdy as ever. That’s low maintenance!

If you want to buy some, you can try your local nursery, however my favorite place to buy the sedum family is Worldwide Exotics in Lakeview Terrace, CA. Their Asters are in awesome bloom right now too; pair the dark purple one with a pretty yellow coreopsis or blanket flower and you will have a spectacular accent. Tell Sara, Shelly and Ken that Julie sent you!

Planting as it cools off during autumn will allow your plants to adapt easily and grow quickly. We are lucky enough to really have two planting seasons (and plenty of fudging in between). Don’t waste your cooler days (when they come).

My favorite planting times for ground covers are March and October, they establish well and really grow vigorously. Take advantage of October by planning now in September! One of my fav clients and I have a date for ground covering in October – make your own date and keep it.

Fall Splendor, think of all the decorating opportunities you have. Fresh harvested from your garden, purchased from the Farmer’s Market or local floral shop, there are endless opportunities to spruce your home.

If you are interested in learning more about Fall Harvest Decorating and sprucing your home up both inside and out, please plan to attend next week’s Complimentary Seminar at Green Thumb in Newhall. Here are the details:

You don't want to miss this event!
Send an email to: rsvp@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net with your name and code GB917. We’d love to see you there!

For more about my designs, please visit my website

Wordless Wednesday - September Splendor

2011-09-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

Bougainvillea & Morning Glory

Zinnia & Marigold

Morning Glory Close Up

Chores for your Southern California Garden - September

2011-09-03T04:00:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend is upon us, so as all of you in Santa Clarita and many parts of Southern California know we have another two months of summer to go (ignore those calendars and pay attention to your internal thermometers!)

I had a few comments last month that you liked the new list format for your gardening chores, so here it is again. I hope that it is easier to read, and more like a checklist for you!

1. Start thinking about your cool season vegetables, for those of you who start your veggies from “scratch” you can begin sowing your seeds. Kale, sugar snap peas, Swiss Chard and broccoli can be started. If you live in Santa Clarita, please feel free to participate in the free vegetable gardening classes at our Central Park Site. Check out the Facebook Fan Page for our fall schedule.

2. It is a good idea to give your trees and shrubs infrequent deep watering, as you have hopefully been doing all summer … remember it is going to remain hot, so you need to treat your trees like it is summer, not yet fall. Deep water every few weeks is a good idea, more or less frequently depending on the type of tree it is. Deep watering with a hose or bubblers to your trees will pay off as you create deep roots that support healthy trees.

3. If you haven’t yet started on them, it is time to clean up those rose beds! Prune your plants lightly, check for pests and diseases and pick up all the old dead leaves that can spread them.

4. Fall rose planters take note: this is a great time to take a cool drink into the shade and peruse the rose catalogs. We live in an environment that is pretty perfect for roses, so we are very lucky to have some great resources nearby. If you like a more hands on approach, a nice ride into Fillmore to visit Otto & Son’s nursery would be an excellent field trip!

5. After your summer blooming vines and shrubs have finished blooming, give them a nice pruning.

6. You can also shop for and plant perennials that are fall or winter bloomers, why don’t you try some aloes, clivia, a few more Echinacea, sedum ‘Autumn Joy’? You’ll be happy you did!

7. Spending some time on a nice cool morning to check and spruce up your container designs and hanging baskets is a great chore for this time of the year. If you prune them judiciously, add some annuals and perennials to spruce them up, and make sure to fertilize them regularly you will have beautiful containers right into the cooler months.

8. It is a great time to take inventory and start thinking about how you might want to spruce up those gardens, containers, and planter beds for the holidays. Keep your eyes open for new plants as they come into the nursery.

Speaking of Holiday decorating, Fall Harvest, Thanksgiving Abundance, and Holiday Beauty opportunities are just around the corner! Please join Tami Smight of Tami Smight Ineriors and me Julie Molinare at Green Thumb when we present:

You don't want to miss this event!
Send an email to: rsvp@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net with your name and code GB917. We’d love to see you there!

For more about my designs, please visit my website

Wordless Wednesday - In the Garden

2011-08-31T04:00:00.000-07:00

Artichoke In Bloom

Red Sunflowers against the sky

Zinnias & Cornflower

What's Hapening In Southern California in September - Garden Edition

2011-08-27T04:00:00.000-07:00

As always, I want to remind you to shop local, and get the freshest produce around by heading out to our local Farmers' Markets in Santa Clarita

Sundays 8:00am – noon
College of The Canyons Parking Lot
(Don’t forget to visit my friend Sarah from Worldwide Exotics!)

There is also another great Farmers' Market:
Thursdays in Old Town Newhall from 3-7pm.

Now for some gardening and not so gardening events...

September 2, 2011 – Annual Patio Clearance Sale at
Green Thumb Nursery
23734 Newhall Avenue. Newhall, CA. 91321
Save 40% off all floor sample patio furniture, umbrellas & cushions.
Save 50% off all patio and home décor accessories.

September 3, 2011 – Annual Halloween Opening at
Green Thumb Nursery
23734 Newhall Avenue. Newhall, CA. 91321
Ghoulish treats & open house deals abound, along with the unveiling of the Department 56 Halloween display. Save 10% off all Halloween merchandise excluding Dept 56
Last year I waited too long to buy one of their awesome Halloween pieces … I snuck in early and already purchased what I want… don’t wait too long the best stuff goes fast!!!!

Friday September 2nd is the last Lexus Jazz & Blue Concerts on Town Center Drive for the year, so come out and enjoy this FREE event, which starts at 7 p.m.

September 17, 2011 is a SUPER busy day!

Start your morning helping out:
The 17th Annual River Rally - 2011 River Clean-up & Environmental Expo
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Wiley Canyon Road, off the Via Princessa Bridge
(East of Orchard Village Road)
Help maintain a portion of the Santa Clara River – one of the last natural rivers in Southern California! We will provide gloves, trash bags, snacks, and special giveaways for participants. River Rally is an excellent volunteer opportunity for clubs, students, scout troops, non-profit organizations, and people of all ages

* COMPLIMENTARY DESIGN SEMINAR*
Presented by: Tami Smight, Interior Designer & Julie Molinare, Landscape Designer
September 17, 2011 - 10 am – 12 noon at Green Thumb Nursery 23734 Newhall Avenue. Newhall, CA. 91321

We will present fall harvest inspired design elements to enhance your garden and celebrate the splendor of fall. With proper planning, you will enjoy the fall garden decor through the December holidays.

Enter your biggest and best flower and vegetables into the fair competitions, and you may win a prize! Please pick up your entry form with details at Green Thumb.

You don't want to miss this event!
Send an email to: rsvp@thegrassisalwaysgreener.net with your name and code GB917. We’d love to see you there!

A Spiritual & Psychic Boutique

Courtyard Marriott in Valencia
28523 Westinghouse Ct. (where the 5 meets the 126)
Valencia, CA 91355
10AM-4PM
A different type of boutique!
Harriette Knight - Psychic Readings/Healings - $30 for 10 minutes
Maile Gray - Past Life Regressions and/or Angel Connections $30 each
Kathe O'Hara - Hand Analysis; Your True Life Path - $25
Diane Stacy Heavenly Healing Chair Massage - $20
Kimberly Barclay - Angel Readings - $25
Rebecca Kellogg – Life Path Intuitive $25 for 10 min.
Sharon Wright - Iridology (Eye Readings) $25
Stacey Nivichanov - Quantum Touch and Oneness Blessings $25 for 20 min.
Tina Landrum - Crystal Healing and Reiki $25 for 20 min.
Kri Chetan - Whole Body Vibration Machine $1 per min. for 10 minutes
(Equals a 1 1/2 hour workout!)

Charity Clarity Healing Jewelry by Harriette Knight
Elaine Giftos Wright - Feng Shui Crystal Bracelets
Shawneen Rubay - Renaissance Home Eco Friendly Totes and More!
CONTACT: Harriette Knight at 661-254-4747 to make appointments or get directions.

September 17, 2011 9 am – noon - CLWA – Landscape Education Class
What’s Bugging You? Castaic Lake Water Agency on the hill above Central Park. Please RSVP to (661) 513-1230.

There are also a lot of fun events at our local gardens and arboretums:

Descanso Gardens:
They have a LOT going on so here is a link to the Calendar. My favorite highlights:

9/10/11 (like that number!) gives us Harvest Basics, and Leave your Lawn – How to replace that water guzzling turf.
9/17/11 brings us Organic Gardening with Mike Brown
9/24/11 – Is a class about uses of Native plants by indigenous people.

LA Arboretum
There is roadwork going on near the Arboretum during the first three weeks of the month, so please check the calendar carefully because there will be partial garden closures during that time. Here is a link to their events. This month there is a Korean Festival and a class on Organic Fruit & Vegetable Gardening, as well as the Thursday talks with Lili Singer.

I hope you find a few things to do this month, enjoy!

And don't forget to register for my Blueprint for a Beautiful Outdoor Sanctuary! This is your chance to learn landscape design basics and get your landscape design questions answered directly by me! For someone interested in learning more about landscape design, this is a fabulous opportunity. More info here: Outdoor Sanctuary Blueprint

Wordless Wednesday - Birthday Week for Mom!

2011-08-24T04:00:00.000-07:00

Crape Myrtle & Pines

Morning Glory

Scaevola & Helictotrichon

To learn more about my designs, please take a look at my website

Where to go to beat the heat? A moonlight garden of course!

2011-08-20T04:00:00.000-07:00

Summer in Southern California Valleys and inland areas are HOT, however that gives us an opportunity to take advantage of our beautiful evenings so you can beat the heat in your garden at night! The stress of a long day melts away in a fragrant, relaxing haven… your backyard. The way to create a wonderful retreat that will shine in the moonlight is to fill your garden (or a space in your garden) with silver foliage, white flowers, and plants that are fragrant at night.

Plants that bloom at night are great, but you can also use foliage plants that scent your space. First create a backdrop of vines or tall plants why not try some Star Jasmine, White Climbing Roses, Angel’s Trumpet (poisonous watch kids & animals), Viburnum and you can use Camellias if you have shade in the daytime. The shrubs and vines will allow you to add height and a sense of enclosure to your space, which will make you, feel more comfortable and relaxed

If you have a nice wide bed, you can add a layer of smaller shrubs, Spirea, Gardenia, Russian Sage, and for the shady spot Brunfelsia. These will add more depth, texture, fragrance and color to shimmer on a full moon. If your bed is 6’ or less wide – please skip this step!

Then it is time to add perennials in front. There are some nice scented foliage plants in this bunch as well as ones that are just plain textural, they can add so much to your garden. Achillea, Euphorbia (poisonous), dwarf Cuphea, Licorice Plant, Moon Flowers and Artemesia, and for the shade you can use the silver foliage Plectranthus, Calla Lily or some lime green Coral Bells. Then just finish up with a ground cover and/or annuals such as Lamb’s Ears, Bacopa, Nicotiana, Cosmos, Dusty Miller, Allysum, Thyme and Impatiens for the shade.

By creating a beautiful space to share the night with your family, you will have a relaxing sanctuary that you can enjoy from spring into the fall.

To learn more about my designs, please visit my website

Wordless Wednesday - Summer Gorgeous

2011-08-17T04:00:00.000-07:00

Fennel front & center after the morning watering

Plumeria

Echinacea

For more about my designs please visit my website

Do you need a little garden inspiration?

2011-08-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

Imagine walking up to your front door and feeling like you are truly home. Imagine sitting in your backyard; a drink in your hand, friends and family all around feeling completely comfortable. That is how you should feel in your own private sanctuary. It is not always easy to create that sanctuary when you are unclear of your goals and the tools that you need. But that can be fixed!

Let me share with you the key ingredient for creating a sanctuary: Inspiration. Finding the places that make you feel the most calm and relaxed, the vignettes that speak to your heart, those are the keys to creating any kind of sanctuary. Summer is often the time that so many of us have a few extra days (or if we are lucky weeks) to take a break, visit beautiful locations, rest, and relax. Don't let that time disappear, savor every moment and bring it back as inspiration for your life and your surroundings.

This Swiss chard may not seem inspirational to your 10 year-old when served for dinner, however the play of back light on it's leaves is a thing of beauty. Did you know that you could mix edibles into your planting beds and have extraordinary results?

Taking time to stop and smell the roses, or better yet pause and watch a bee flitting on a beautiful hollyhock will help you find both relaxation and inspiration. You deserve it! Give yourself the gift of inspiration and knowledge take a trip, visit a botanical gardens, take a class, or visit a friend's beautiful yard. I am offering a series of classes - if you are so inclined take a look at my offering. Visit: Outdoorsanctuaryblueprint.net

Have a wonderful weekend, and stay inspired!

Julie

Wordless Wednesday - Gabriola, British Columbia

2011-08-10T04:00:00.000-07:00

Bosco

Garden Art

Under the maple leaves

You still have time to sign up for my BRAND-NEW FREE teleclass "5 Stepping Stones for Creating an Outdoor Sanctuary: Take your Yard from a Drag to a Destination" today, Wednesday, August 10, at 7 pm Pacific time.
TONIGHT!!!

(Ready to cut to the chase and reserve your seat? Click here)

What to do In your Southern California Garden in August

2011-08-06T04:00:00.000-07:00

August started out with a real heat wave! I’ve been out installing for the past few days, and I’ve got to tell you my hat and long sleeve shirts are saving me. So, my suggestion is if you don’t have to be out in the heat of the day… don’t go out! Spend your time gardening in the early hours of the morning or evening, and please drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen.

I decided to take my last year’s post and put it into a To Do List format – I hope you like it!

1. Prepare your rose beds for fall planting

Get a nice layer of compost going and till the soil a bit, if you prep now it will be easier in fall.

2. Start your second set of tomatoes.

I normally say to plant your second crop of tomatoes, but I haven’t seen many nice short season varieties locally in SCV this year, and I was recently told, that concentrating on getting your winter crops in by September is better. If you really want to try another crop of tomatoes, take a look my post How To Extend Your Tomato Harvest then go shopping in the San Fernando Valley, Ventura or... wherever you might be visiting nurseries.

3. Check plants for pests.

Give them a good spray from your hose if you find cobwebs, aphids, spider mites, or whitefly. Be sure to check you tomato plants regularly and pick off any hornworms you find … see my hornworm blog post.

4. Check for invading animals.

You might also want to keep an eye open for signs of animals eating your veggies or fruits. If you do, rig up some protection if you find that you are sharing too much food with your animal neighbors.

5. Order seeds and seedlings.

If you enjoy winter blooming sweet peas, order your seedlings now and you will have beautiful bouquets to enjoy. You can also order or plant tropical trees such as Silk Floss (Chorisya speciosa) and Acacias.

6. Order bulbs that require winter chill now, and refrigerate.

That would be crocus, hyacinths, and tulips. Also, if you planted tulips last year you can dig them up and refrigerate them too – they’ll just keep sinking every year if you neglect that little step.

7. Leach the alkaline buildup in your soil

Add some organic acid plant food and giving the soil some deep watering. Remember to observe the watering regulations in your specific area.

8. Buy seeds for winter annuals.

You can also spend a little time in your local nursery and see what perennials have arrived and might be right for planting now and in the fall.

9. Spruce up container plants.

Container plants and hanging baskets can be trimmed up and fertilized. Remember every time you water (which is often in this heat) you are removing the plant’s nutrients – so you’ll want to fertilize containers more frequently than your other plants.

I hope this helps you keep you yard in tip top shape.

Wow! I can hardly believe how many people have signed up for my BRAND-NEW, FREE teleclass.

Do you love Southern California gardening? Want to learn 5 key secrets about how to design the personalized outdoor sanctuary of your dreams? Join me on a free training call "5 Stepping Stones to Creating your Outdoor Sanctuary: Take your yard from a Drag to a Destination" August 10, 2011 at 7 p.m., which I'm hosting as part of the celebratory launch of my upcoming teleclass. Sign up here for access to the call and the call recording, and I'll talk to you August 10!

Julie

Wordless Wednesday - An Eclectic Bunch

2011-08-03T04:00:00.000-07:00

Scabiosa - Burgundy Pincushion Flower

Campanula Canterbury Bells

Hibiscus

Please visit my website, take a look at my designs and see that you can have the landscape of your dreams.

Happy Birthday Mar!

2011-07-30T04:01:00.000-07:00

Though it is not riding through the Hollywood Hills, it's a Yucca just the same.
Love you!

What's Happening In Southern California - Garden Edition August 2011

2011-07-30T04:00:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday - Colors of Summer

2011-07-27T04:00:00.000-07:00

Gaillardia hybrid w/Verbena

Lobelia cardinalis (watch for low flying Hummingbirds!)

Vitex & Cannas!

Please visit my website to see my designs and see how you can have the landscape of your dreams!

Jujube Care & Harvesting

2011-07-23T04:00:00.000-07:00

The jujube (Zizyphus jujuba.) is a lovely small deciduous tree that produces wonderfully unusual fruit that can be eaten both fresh and dried. Originally from the Indian sub continent they will grow well in Southern California – specifically the Santa Clarita Valley! They can take low temperatures but the only need 200 chill hours to set fruit.

My friend, Alex Silber of Papaya Tree Nursery in Granada Hills has a wonderful variety of jujube that grows very upright. It is only about 3’ wide so you can fit one most anywhere. It has a beautiful branching structure so when it loses its leaves in winter it becomes an architectural addition to your garden! Alex was kind enough to provide me with some outstanding information and photos, please read on.

When to harvest
(usually starts around Sept in SoCal)

The jujube fruit will have developed full flavor and peak sugars when they are completely dark brown. You can however consume them when they are only approximately 50% brown and green everywhere else. The fruit should feel firm to the touch and will begin to lose moisture soon after the skin of the fruit has turned completely brown while still on the tree.

How to harvest

Do not pull the fruit off the tree; instead you should cut the small stem, as this will give you a clean sealed product.

Fresh fruit storage

The fresh fruit is best stored between 52* and 55* F in a special green plastic bag that counteracts the ethylene gas naturally given off by ripe fruit. You may have seen the info commercials promoting this product and just so you know, it does indeed work...(can you believe it?)

How to dry

The fruit can be allowed to fully dry on the tree or you may pick them when they just begin to show signs of desiccation (wrinkled skin). You then dry them in a flat open basket at room temperature out of direct sunlight. After the fruit has been satisfactorily dried, it is a good idea to freeze the fruit for a few hours, then remove from the freezer and allow the excess condensation to evaporate before placing the fruit in the storage container (Available at Smart&Final).

Of note

Sometimes the fruit will show signs of premature drying before fully brown or even at the light green stage and this fruit is usually not the best for drying as the fruit should be allowed to fully color up brown if the intention is to store dry fruit. The usual cause of this premature drying is from heat/water stress and should be less of an issue as the tree becomes more established since it is a drought tolerant species.

Fertilizing

Once the jujube has become established (Judgment call), I only fertilize the tree once a year just after the majority of the blossoms have set fruit.

Julie’s note:
If you are in the market for unusual subtropical fruits you HAVE to visit Papaya Tree Nursery. They are a family owned and operated business, are fruit tree experts, and are just a hop, skip, & jump away. Please call ahead to make sure they are around to help you or… call me and I might just go with you!

For more about my designs please visit my website.

Wordless Wednesday -

2011-07-20T04:00:00.000-07:00

Echinacea - Purple Coneflower

Sedum 'Autumn Joy'

Agastache

For more about my designs please visit my website

How To Care For Gaillardia

2011-07-16T04:00:00.000-07:00

Gaillardia or Blanket Flower is a beautiful perennial addition to your garden. They are heat and drought tolerant, attract butterflies and other pollinators and need very little care. The Blanket Flower gets about 2-3’ tall and should be planted about 18” apart. They are readily available in 4” pots or 1 gallons but grow very well from seed too! They flower from early summer through the late fall here in Southern California, so they provide a lot of bang for your buck!

The Blanket Flower gets it’s name because it blankets the fields where it grows due to its ability to reseed itself. That said here are a few tips for care that will take full advantage of its attributes.

If you seed it, plant in early spring, and once the seeds start getting strong and sprouting thin out to about 18” apart. During the early part of the Blanket Flower’s long bloom season deadhead the flowers on a regular basis and it will encourage more bloom – in to the fall. Once the fall bloom is finished you can allow the flower to go to seed because that is how you will get new “free” plants for next year. If you have an area that you don’t want to be filled, something you want a bit more pristine, just deadhead in the fall as well. If your plants become too tall and start tipping over, just stake them and they will look beautiful all season.

Blanket Flowers do well in garden beds, borders and even container designs, their bright cheery color is perfect for the hot summer, as the color really stands up to the heat. No fading pastels during the hot summer – how boring! Don’t forget to use them in your entry; their bright red is wonderful for bringing good chi into your home.

Please visit my website, to take a look at my designs and see how you can have the landscape of your dreams!

Wordless Wednesday - Color at Danny's House

2011-07-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

Greeted by a Gladiola

Passion Flower for the Butterflies

Canna by the pond

For more about my designs, please take a look at my website

What’s Fun In Santa Clarita & Beyond? – Garden Edition July 2011

2011-07-09T04:00:00.000-07:00

Seminar: Success with Houseplants by Sandy Cudmore, ACCNP starts at 10:00 am

Free 4" House Plant to the first 50 Customers
20% off all House Plants, Pottery, & Gift Items

Green Thumb is located at: 23734 Newhall Avenue Newhall, CA 91321-3125

(661) 259-1071

July 9, 2011 – Route 66 – Classic Car Show
Help us celebrate Safe Rides 25th year serving our community! The Car Shows are held on the second Saturday of the month, May thru October, 5-9PM. Spectators are free, and vehicle registration is $10 (donated to Safe Rides). Enjoy great food and Live Music, while viewing over 125 classic cars. Trophies are awarded in 20 categories. Raffle prizes and a 50/50 raffle are given to participants and spectators. Car shows are held at Route 66 Classic Grill, 18730 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91351. For further information go to www.route66classicgrill.com, or call (661) 298-1494.

July 16, 2011 9 am – noon - CLWA – Landscape Education Class
Design Strategies for SCV. Castaic Lake Water Agency on the hill above Central Park. Please RSVP to (661) 513-1230.

July 30, 2011 9:30 – 11 am
Santa Clarita - Beginning Smart Gardening Workshop - Learn all about composting!
Location: Castaic Lake Water Agency , 27234 Bouquet Canyon Rd. , Santa Clarita , 91350

Descanso Gardens:
They have so much going on so here is a link to the June Calendar. Here is a couple that I consider highlights:

Garden Chats with Mike Brown every Saturday morning at 9:30 am
June 16, & 23, 2011 - they are also offering Summer Discovery Camp fo rthe kids and they have extended summer hours so check it out!

LA Arboretum
Another place that has so much to do here is a link to their events. Here are some of my choices for the month:

July 16, 2011 – Hypertufa Workshop – you will make your own light weight planting pot. Strong like concrete, yet lightweight.
There is a Summer Nature Camp for 5-10 year olds. If you are a member there are extended Members only hours.

I hope you find a few things to do this month, enjoy!

For more about my designs check out my website.

Wordless Wednesday - Texture & Color

2011-07-06T04:00:00.000-07:00

Agave attenuata 'Kara's Stripes' w/Salvia argentea

Gingerbread Man Day Lily

Hidcote Lavender

For more about my designs please visit my website

What To Do In Your Southern California Garden In July

2011-07-02T04:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July Weekend! I hope you all have stellar plans for this long weekend. I don't expect you to get your gardening done this weekend, but I do want to give you the monthly list. Here is the link to the July Chores for your garden. Enjoy!

You too deserve a beautiful backyard (or front yard) haven like the one above, for more about my designs, please visit my website

Wordless Wednesday - Carpinteria & Santa Barbara

2011-06-29T04:00:00.000-07:00

Red Trumpet Vine

Agave, Hens & Chicks, Lavender

Coral Tree

For more about my designs please take a look at my website

Dwell on Design 2011

2011-06-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

Eco Arbor Designs

Today is normally my day to tell you about events for next month, I'm reserving that for a later post because today I went with my friends Lisa Madison and Lisa Esposito down to the Dwell on Design Show in Los Angeles and I found so much that I wanted to share with you!

Once I arrived I wandered around with my NAPWL family, Angelia Beckstrom and Theodora Michailides and we did some serious perusing of the Outdoor Exhibits. (NAPWL is The National Association of Professional Women in Landscape - please visit our website to learn more.)

Dwell on Design is the annual modern design expo at the LA Convention Center this weekend it features the latest furniture and accessories, plus speakers. 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. June 24 is for the trade and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 25, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 26 it is open to the public.

This show was lots of fun, they had everything from Eco Friendly Outdoor Wood Deck Tiles (above) to chicken coops. The wood decking is easy enough for ME to install! My friend Theodora is their distributor - so take a look at her website to learn more.

The chicken coops even had chickens in them and are called Chicken Co-Op. They looked great, and are made of recycled material. Check out their website.

Chicken Co-Op

I just love the new release by Monrovia Growers. They had a gorgeous pure white mandevillea vine - that looked like a bowl of cream with a dollop of butter in the center. Now I just have to find the right client... any takers?

We also found some beautiful eco friendly paints and glazes in beautifully muted colors, and rich patinas. The lime washes from Portola Paints & Glazes are beautiful.

Another one of my favorite items was a beautifully crafted succulent planter that was blown glass with a GROW LIGHT in a bell suspended over the plants. The glass and lamps are a new edition to the pieces created by artist caleb siemon. Gorgeous!

EIS Studios had a display of custom crafted Pebbles - my favorites were the ones that looked like giant beach pebbles that would look beautiful nearby an organically designed swimming pool. They also have wood cast versions which were very nice and ones done in fabric.

If you have a chance to visit Dwell later this weekend or next year, it is a great opportunity to grab some inspiration and check out some of the eco friendly choices that both interior and exterior designers have at our fingertips... waiting to share with you!

For more about my designs, visit my website.

Wordless Wednesday - Blooms & Foliage

2011-06-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

Lacecap Hydrangeas

Merlot Bearded Iris (Greenwood Day Lily Gardens)

Lamium in Flower

For more about my designs check my website

How To Care For Salvia

2011-06-18T04:00:00.000-07:00

Native California Sage

The genus Salvia is one of the largest in the plant kingdom and contains over 900 species, these plants readily cross-pollinate, so there are both natural and manmade hybrids galore!

Most salvia plants like full sun, but many do well in partial shade and in the hottest areas plants like Salvia chiapensis are much better with shade. These plants are perfect for gardeners who want drought tolerant plants with colorful long-lasting flowers that can be brought into the house or enjoyed outdoors. There are many varieties to chose from, so you should find at least a few that are perfect for your home. Most are deer resistant and very pest and disease free, so they are an ideal plant.

Salvia greggii in front of Pineapple Sage

Salvias like well draining soil, if the soil is too wet or dry they will not produce new growth or flowers, in overly wet soil their roots may rot. Planting Salvia plants is easy, select your spot, amend the soil by adding compost and dig your hole twice as wide and about as deep as the container and pop the salvia in the ground at the same depth or just below the level that they have been growing in their nursery pot. If you are planting California Native Salvias … use NO amendments but make sure you are planting them in the soil type that is proper for their species.

Salvia argentea (Silver Sage)

Although salvia provides amazing color all summer long, they require only minimal care. Since they require less everything to provide beauty changes are likely that you will more likely OVER care for you salvia than under care for it. Water your salvia sparingly, infrequent deep watering is best and little fertilization is needed. Too much fertilization and your plant will become tall and lanky and the blooms will be sparse. When you begin to see lots of dried seedpods and spent flowers, cut the back to about half their height, which will encourage new growth and new flowers within a month.

Salvia greggii - red variety

There are many salvias to chose from, so… have fun! (My friends Sara, Shelly, & Ken at Worldwide Exotics have a GREAT selection of Salvia)

For more about my designs take a look at my website

Wordless Wednesday - Fillmore, Ca.

2011-06-15T04:00:00.000-07:00

Onion Field

Day Lily Plants

Pelargonium Leaves

For more about my designs take a look at my website

It's A Good Day!

2011-06-11T04:00:00.000-07:00

Today my son, Marlon, is graduating from college. He has spent the last four years working hard and playing hard up in Santa Barbara. So, in honor of his graduation and my having a million things to do I am posting a link to his website. One of the things that he has done during is time at school was develop a love for Tea, he and his friend Dylan have started a company and I would love to share it with you. Please visit Chan Teas and feel their love for Tea come through. It is an amazing resource about tea; visit the blog, the store, and enjoy!

Enjoy this beautiful day, and think about our happy family sending our love of tea and the garden out to you today.

xo,
Julie

For more about my designs take a look at my website.

Wordless Wednesday - Towsley Canyon

2011-06-08T04:00:00.000-07:00

Native Sage

Mimulus - Monkey Flower

Yerba Santa

For more about my designs, take a look at my website

What To Do In Your Southern California Garden In June

2011-06-04T04:00:00.000-07:00

June is here! The weather is starting to be a bit more consistent, so you can plan some days out in the garden. A little sprucing is always good especially if you plan to celebrate a graduation, Father's Day or even a wedding outside. Click here and read all about what you should be doing in your garden this month.

For more about my designs, take a look at my website.

Wordless Wednesday - Fairfax District, LA

2011-06-01T04:00:00.000-07:00

Solandra maxima - Cup of Gold Vine

Distictis 'Rivers'

Chorisia especiosa trunk & Anigozanthus

Gardening Events & More June 2011

2011-05-28T04:00:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday - Acton, Ca.

2011-05-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

Aloe in Acton

Evening Primrose & California Poppies in Acton

Agave and Evening Primrose slope in Acton

How To Care For Penstemons

2011-05-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Penstemons are a wonderful plant, and depending on your site there is probably a penstemon that can work for you. A single specimen can be variable so it is best to plant penstemons in a mass where they will put on a dramatic show. They come in many colors from vibrant red, to sky blue/purple to apple blossom. They attract hummingbirds and since they have tubular flowers – the red ones don’t attract bees! Penstemons make a great border plant and look good in both a cottage garden and a rock garden… very versatile. They do well in loose soil that is gravelly, love raised beds, and are perfect for slopes and hillsides.

All penstemons like to have full sun (but will take some shade, especially in hot areas) soil that drains well, and they need plenty of room. They like to spread out and come in a variety of sizes both in height and in width. They can be plant in spring through summer and should be spaced 1 to 3 feet apart, depending on the variety.

In California we have both native varieties and non-natives, care instructions have similarities but there are a few differences. I will mention them below.

In either case prepare your bed by loosening the soil, if you are planting non-natives add some amendments and then plant your penstemons in a hole that is the same height as it’s nursery pot but twice the diameter. You can also add an all purpose fertilizer at planting. If you are planting natives, don’t amend the soil or add fertilizer – but make sure that you are planting it in soil that has good drainage… not clay.

Both natives and non-natives will benefit from a layer of compost each spring, 2-4” depending on what “school of mulch” you belong to. This will help the plants retain the moisture they need and control weeds. All plants will need to be watered regularly in the first year to establish them, after that the natives will want MUCH less water (so don’t mix them). Water plants during dry periods and you can allow the soil to dry between waterings and since their roots don’t go deep you only need the soil to be wet 3-4” down. You can fertilize non-natives every six weeks during the season and they will benefit from high phosphorous fertilizer just prior to bloom time.

Flower spikes – you can cut them and bring them in the house or leave them for the hummingbirds. Once they have finished blooming cut back the spent flower spikes because this will encourage re-blooming. Once the season is over cut the plants back to about 2” from the ground but DON’T pull them out. They are perennials and will come back year after year. If your areas gets cold, you can add a new layer of mulch to protect the rhizomes.

California Penstemons also need full sun and good drainage, plus they need little water. After the first summer of establishment they need little to no water everywhere except the hottest areas, including the desert. They actually like hot, arid, dry conditions so they do best in the interior of California, and not so well in the coastal areas. They can easily survive on the 14-15 inches of rainfall that we usually get.

Enjoy!

For more about my designs please visit my website.

Wordless Wednesday - Spring Is Surely Here

2011-05-18T04:00:00.000-07:00

Wisteria

Rose

Snail Vine - Vigna caracalla

Container Gardening

2011-05-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

It's been a great, busy week and I'm so excited that I am going to be doing a lot of planting this week including some awesome container designs to add punch and accents to my client's homes. So, since it was on my mind, I decided to share the link to my post on Tree.com's Home & Garden Blog. Check out Container Design Basics.

For more about my designs check out my website.

Enjoy!