Navigating Santa Cruz County’s Microclimates: The Key to Garden Success
A tomato that thrives in sunny Boulder Creek will struggle in foggy Aptos. Understanding your specific microclimate is the difference between gardening success and perpetual frustration.
Growing Zinnias in Santa Cruz County: Bold Summer Color with Minimal Effort
Everything you need to grow zinnias in Santa Cruz County. From variety selection and planting timing to disease prevention and cut flower tips, zinnias deliver bold summer color with minimal effort.
5 Edible Plants That Will Elevate Your Landscape Design and Your Dinner Plate
Embrace the union of beauty and practicality in your California garden with our top 5 edible plant choices. From the vibrant allure of tomatoes to the aromatic charm of herbs, learn how to cultivate a garden that's not just a visual treat but a culinary treasure. Uncover the secrets to growing peppers, leafy greens, and strawberries, making your garden a delightful source of fresh, tasty produce.
Growing Unique Melons in Santa Cruz County: A Realistic Guide
Discover which unusual melon varieties actually succeed in Santa Cruz County's microclimates, plus honest guidance on where melons thrive and where they struggle.
Growing Matilija Poppy in Santa Cruz County: California's Spectacular (and Spreading) Native
California's largest native flower produces 6-inch white blooms with golden centers. The matilija poppy is stunning but spreads aggressively. Know what you're getting into first.
Why California Lilac Deserves a Spot in Your Santa Cruz Garden
Learn how to grow California lilac (Ceanothus) in Santa Cruz County. Complete guide to species selection, planting tips, care requirements, and where to buy locally.
Growing Sticky Monkey Flower in Santa Cruz County
Learn how to grow sticky monkey flower in Santa Cruz County. Native plant guide covering varieties, planting tips, hummingbird attraction, and local sources for this drought-tolerant perennial.
Growing California Poppies in Santa Cruz County
Learn how to grow California poppies in Santa Cruz County. Complete guide to planting, timing, color varieties, and creating wildflower displays in your Bay Area garden.
Why California Lupine Belongs in Your Santa Cruz Garden
Learn how to grow California lupine in Santa Cruz County. Native wildflower guide covering local species, planting tips, soil benefits, and where to find seeds at local nurseries.
Growing Lavender in Santa Cruz County: A Complete Guide
Lavender is perfectly suited to Santa Cruz County's Mediterranean climate. Once established, it needs almost no irrigation and rewards you with fragrant blooms, culinary uses, and pollinator habitat.
Why Manzanita Is the Crown Jewel of California Native Gardens
Complete guide to growing manzanita in Santa Cruz County. Species selection, planting tips, drainage requirements, and care for California's most beautiful native shrub.