Growing Mulberries in Santa Cruz County: The Overlooked Backyard Superfruit
Discover why mulberries are the perfect low-maintenance fruit tree for Santa Cruz County. Variety guide, planting tips, and harvesting advice for California gardeners
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.
Organic Pest Control in Santa Cruz County: What Works
Learn how to manage garden pests organically in Santa Cruz County. Discover natural, chemical-free methods that protect pollinators, soil, and crops.
What to Plant in Santa Cruz & the Bay Area in May
The danger of frost is past! It’s time to get your heat-loving peppers, basil, and melons into the ground for a summer harvest.
California Gardeners' Guide to Freebies: Save Big and Grow More
Transform your California garden without breaking the bank! Our guide reveals the top free and affordable resources available to gardeners in the Golden State. From free seeds and plants to invaluable gardening advice, learn how to make the most of local swaps, community programs, and online platforms. Dive in and garden smarter, not harder, in California.
How to Grow Hot Peppers in Santa Cruz County
Learn which hot pepper varieties thrive in Santa Cruz County's microclimates, when to plant, and how to maximize your harvest in coastal or inland gardens.
From Soil Health to Water Conservation: Sustainable Land Management Tips for Every Gardener
Learn sustainable land management for Santa Cruz County gardens. Build healthy soil with compost, conserve water with drip irrigation and mulch, choose California native plants, and practice organic pest control. Practical tips for Bay Area gardeners.
Why Native Garden Design is Essential for Eco-Friendly Landscaping
Discover the benefits of native garden design for eco-friendly landscaping. Learn how native plants can conserve water, support local wildlife, and enhance the beauty of your garden
Drip Irrigation Setup for Santa Cruz County Gardens: A Complete Beginner's Guide
Drip irrigation delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing waste by up to 70% compared to sprinklers. Here's how to set up a system for your Santa Cruz County vegetable garden.
Growing Tomatoes in Santa Cruz County: A Complete Guide
Learn how to grow tomatoes in Santa Cruz County's unique climate. Variety recommendations, planting tips, and solutions for coastal California challenges.
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.
From Garden to Glass: Growing Herbs for Cocktails in California
Fresh herbs transform ordinary cocktails into something special, and Santa Cruz County's mild climate lets you grow most cocktail herbs year-round. This guide covers the essential herbs for your home bar garden, with variety recommendations, growing tips for each microclimate, and recipes to put your harvest to work.
Heirloom Tomatoes for Santa Cruz County: Varieties Worth Growing
Discover which heirloom tomatoes grow best in Santa Cruz County. Variety recommendations by microclimate, from early cherries to large slicers.
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 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.