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Growing Cosmos in Santa Cruz County: Effortless Color from Summer to Fall
Everything you need to grow cosmos in Santa Cruz County. These easy, drought-tolerant flowers bloom from summer through fall with minimal care, attracting butterflies and bees to your garden.
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 Squash in Santa Cruz County: A Complete Guide
Learn which squash varieties thrive in Santa Cruz County, how to manage powdery mildew, and tips for abundant summer and winter harvests.
Native Garden Design in Santa Cruz County: A Complete Guide to Growing California Natives
Native plants evolved with our climate. They need less water, attract pollinators and wildlife, and create beautiful, low-maintenance gardens that work with Santa Cruz County's conditions.
Growing Glass Gem Corn in Santa Cruz County: A Complete Guide to Rainbow Kernels
Glass Gem corn produces translucent, jewel-toned kernels in every color of the rainbow. This heirloom flint corn is easier to grow than you might expect and rewards patience with stunning ears.
What to Plant in Santa Cruz & the Bay Area in April
It's transition time. Find out when to transplant your tomatoes, how to manage spring pests, and what to sow directly into the garden.
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.
Growing Fruit Trees in Santa Cruz County: Varieties That Actually Thrive Here
A practical guide to growing fruit trees in Santa Cruz County, with variety recommendations for different microclimates, chill hour information, and care instructions for citrus, figs, stone fruits, and more.
Chiltepin Peppers: Growing the Wild Ancestor of All Chilis
Chiltepin peppers are the wild ancestor of all cultivated chilis. These tiny, fiery peppers are challenging but rewarding for Santa Cruz County gardeners who can provide the heat they need.
Growing an Herb Garden in Santa Cruz County: The Complete Local Guide
Santa Cruz County's Mediterranean climate is perfect for growing herbs. Learn which herbs thrive in your specific microclimate, when to plant, and how to keep your herb garden productive year-round.
Composting for Santa Cruz County Gardeners: Turn Kitchen Scraps into Garden Gold
Practical composting techniques for Santa Cruz County gardeners, from traditional backyard bins to apartment-friendly worm systems. Includes local resources and troubleshooting tips.
Growing Greens in Your California Garden: A Comprehensive Guide
Embrace the joys of gardening in California's diverse climate with our comprehensive guide. Get practical tips on growing robust greens like kale, chard, lettuce, and spinach. From understanding local microclimates to innovative watering strategies, this article offers valuable insights for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to enhance their green spaces with nutritious, home-grown vegetables.
Growing Strawberries in Santa Cruz County: A Local Guide to Sweet Success
Everything Santa Cruz County gardeners need to know about growing sweet, juicy strawberries at home, from variety selection to harvest.
Bare Root Fruit Trees: A Santa Cruz County Planting Guide
Everything you need to know about buying and planting bare root fruit trees in Santa Cruz County, from evaluating trees at the nursery to first-year care for successful establishment.
California Lilac: The Drought-Proof Shrub That Blooms Blue
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.
Eco-Friendly Gardening: A Santa Cruz Guide to Growing Green
Create a sustainable garden in Santa Cruz County with practical tips for organic practices, water conservation, soil building, and boosting biodiversity in your backyard.
What to Plant in Santa Cruz & the Bay Area in March
Spring has arrived in Santa Cruz! From starting tomatoes indoors to planting leafy greens outside, here is your complete March gardening checklist.
Soil Amendments for Santa Cruz County Gardens: What to Add and When
A practical guide to soil amendments for Santa Cruz County gardens, covering compost, lime, coco coir, and more. Includes local sources and advice for coastal, redwood, and inland soils.
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.
Hugelkultur in Santa Cruz County: Building Mound Beds with Buried Wood
Learn how hugelkultur mound gardening builds rich soil, conserves water, and boosts plant growth. A sustainable technique perfect for Santa Cruz gardens.