California poppies reseed themselves prolifically. Let seed pods dry on the plant for natural spreading, or deadhead to control where they grow.

Sow wildflower seeds in October before the first rains. Fall planting gives native California wildflowers the winter chill they need for strong spring blooms.

Start with defensible space zones and replace flammable plants with fire-resistant California natives. A zone-by-zone approach for Santa Cruz Mountains properties.

October is one of the best planting months in Santa Cruz. Direct-seed peas, lettuce, radishes, and fava beans for fall and winter harvests.

Transition your summer garden to fall by replacing spent crops one section at a time. Plant cool-season vegetables now for winter harvests in Santa Cruz.

Fava beans, crimson clover, and annual rye protect soil and add nutrients over winter. Plant them in October or November for healthier spring beds.

Plant garlic in October or November in Santa Cruz for full bulbs by early summer. Softneck varieties are the most reliable choice for coastal California.

They handle heat, but UC says tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers need water most at flowering and fruiting. Learn when you can cut back.

Powdery mildew loves coastal California's warm days and cool nights. Prevention through spacing and airflow works better than any spray treatment.

Mulch and drip irrigation are the two biggest water savers for California gardens. Here is how to set them up and stop wasting water this summer.

Plan fall planting in Santa Cruz with cool-season crops, California natives and practical watering advice, plus plants better saved for spring.

Fog belt tomatoes are possible with the right varieties and warm microclimates. Cherry tomatoes and early slicers are your best bet in coastal Santa Cruz.

The fermentation method is the best way to save tomato seeds at home. It takes 15 minutes of active work and produces seeds that stay viable for years.

Compare determinate and indeterminate tomatoes by harvest, support and growing space, with practical variety advice for coastal Santa Cruz gardens.

Cool nights slow tomato ripening on the coast. Choose early varieties and use warm microclimates for red tomatoes in Santa Cruz.

Tomato blossom drop is caused by temperature stress, usually cool nights on the coast. It is temporary and corrects itself when conditions stabilize.