The first half of our Western Australia trip was from Perth south to Albany. The second half was from Perth up to Geraldton. When we visited Western Australia in 2017, we didn’t have enough time to venture north of Perth.
Back in early 2025, when we were looking for a Western Australia tour, we stumbled upon one that caught our eye. It promised to show us the stunning Australian wildflowers. We were especially thrilled about the chance to visit Stirling
I was sorting through photos and came across this gem from March 31, 2022. Much of our garden is now over 25 years old, soI consider the area at the bottom of the hill, 100 feet lower than the house,
We initially stayed at an Air B&B in Lāwai after spending time at Hanalei Bay. While the accommodation had charming decor and a good breakfast. The weather was rainy and cool, preventing pool use but creating serene sounds. We visited Waimea Canyon, noted for its stunning views and filming locations from Jurassic Park, despite challenging conditions. Their journey included stops at various gardens, like Moir Gardens, celebrated for its diverse plant collection, where they enjoyed the vibrant blooms amidst occasional downpours. Overall, the trip showcased Hawaii’s natural beauty despite the weather challenges.
During our stay at the Hanalei Bay Resort, we enjoyed a well-appointed condo with a stunning view of the bay. Our first visit was to Limahuli Garden, a 17-acre botanical paradise showcasing Polynesian and indigenous Hawaiian plants, set against impressive volcanic mountains. We explored trails featuring educational signage about local flora and noticed the restored taro terraces from Polynesian times. At Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, we admired the historic lighthouse and observed thousands of migratory birds, including nesting Red-footed Boobies. Our Kaua’i adventure also included stops at Hā’ena Beach, Maniniholo Dry Cave, and ‘Ōpaekaa Falls.
About 10 years ago, I first learned that we had native Fritillaria, specifically F. biflora (Chocolate Lily). Although I don’t think I had ever seen one in the wild, local native plant expert Edmond Piffard shared some photos of them
On New Year’s Eve 2026, heavy rain caused a 15-foot aloe tree in the author’s garden to topple. Despite attempts to save it, the decision was made to remove the plant. A silver torch cactus was relocated to fill the gap, leading to a refreshed front garden that now thrives.
The post discusses recent extreme weather patterns in San Diego, highlighting significant rainfall, including a record 6 inches in 24 hours. Following an extended dry spell, winter rains began unusually early. The author also details storm damage to garden plants, including Euphorbia lactea and Grevillea robusta, and their recovery efforts.
September, Scott Borden, Kathy Ascher, and I participated in a garden tour in Western Australia. You can read more in my earlier blogs on Wireless Park and Kings Park located in Perth, Western Australia. After the tour, Scott traveled to
Long before the 2003 and 2007 fires in San Diego, Scott and I embarked on a November hike to the summit of Iron Mountain in Cuyamaca State Park. I was struck by the fact that, from the mountain’s peak, there
Kristin Law, a long-time friend on Facebook, sent me a message. Kristin specializes in landscape design and maintenance and owns “Law of Nature Garden Design.” Although we had never met in person, I was familiar with her through her numerous
I was eager to return to Western Australia ever since my visit in 2016, and one of the top places on my list was Kings Park. It boasts the largest collection of Western Australian plants globally, featuring over 3,000 native
For years after a road trip that Scott and I did in Western Australia back in 2016, I’d wanted to return. I was totally blown away by the plants, scenery, animals and open spaces. This time since the planning and
In June, I attended my second Garden Fling of the year in Memphis, Tennessee. Last year’s event was in Seattle, and you can read my blog about it here Puget Sound Garden Fling 2024. Since 2008, the Fling has been
It’s official. Blue-eyed grass is now the official flower of San Diego. From the April 22, 2025, San Diego Union Tribune: San Diego has a new city flower for the first time in 61 years. The City Council voted unanimously …
In 1998, when we moved into our 1939 Spanish Colonial Revival house in Mission Hills, we found that despite having an acre of land, there was little space available for landscaping and planting. The only area suitable for this purpose
“What is The Fling? It sounds intriguing,” I’m glad you asked. Since 2008, The Fling has been an annual event organized by local bloggers, taking place in a different city each year and gathering garden writers and bloggers. It provides
We were fortunate enough to be invited to a high school and college friend’s home near Austin to view the April 2024 total eclipse. Situated in the hills above Lake Travis and west of town, it was near the center
In April, Scott and I embarked on an unforgettable botanical expedition that took us on a 1000-mile journey from Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas to view the rare plant life in Baja, Mexico. Our group was composed of seven guests,
With over 130 acres, sixteen themed gardens and 83,000 living plants there are many reasons to visit the The Huntington Botanical Gardens. But for me it has always been for the stunning Desert Garden. I first visited the Huntington in
In December, Scott Borden, eight friends and I visited Patagonia on a Natural Habitat Adventures tour. We visited a bird sanctuary, watched a glacier calving into Lago Argentina, stayed in EcoCamp with views of Torres de Paine, saw two pumas,
Since my column is called “My Life with Plants,” it seems only fitting that I have an article about plants that are much, much older than my comparatively short life, four thousand years old in fact. I’m talking about the
I’m not exactly sure when Scott or I last toured English gardens. I’m guessing that it was sometime before 2015. So when we saw an opportunity to tour gardens in Southern Scotland and Northern England with the Hardy Plant Society
I’m not exactly sure when I first became aware of Calochortus. Calochortus weedii – July 2019 in the northern annex of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. I seem to recall in the 1980s that they were occasionally offered for sale
We were originally scheduled to visit the California Channel Islands on a National Geographic / Lindblad Expedition in the spring 2020, but the trip was cancelled due to COVID. We were finally able to take the trip this April and
Spring of 2022 Scott Borden and I visited gardens near Philadelphia in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. We revisited several gardens we had previously visited on Pacific Horticulture Society tours back in 2012 and 2013. We were especially looking forward
Visit to June Wash After hearing and seeing photos online of the Sand Verbena, Abronia villosa, we decided to make a trip to June Wash in the southern part of Anza-Borrego State Park on Sunday, February 18, 2023, to check
Getting There In October 2022, on our return from a bicycling trip in Carolinas’ Blue Ridge Mountains, we stopped in Arizona for a short stay at Castle Hot Springs hosted by Scott’s brother and his wife. Heavy thundershowers that day
This past October, Scott and I headed to the Carolinas’ Blue Ridge Mountains to see the fabulous fall foliage on a bicycling tour hosted by Backroads. To be able to enjoy the long rides and big hills we opted to
This past August (2022) we had the opportunity to borrow a home belonging to a business associate of Scott’s located at the Sea Ranch in Sonoma County. We figured it would be a great time to visit there since San
In mid-April, 20222, Scott and I traveled to Portugal for a bike tour. Getting older, we opted for e-bikes which makes several days of bike riding much easier as well as making hill climbs feel like level ground. The tour
Oahu In mid-December 2021, we took a brief trip to Oahu, aiming to avoid potential travel restrictions as the Omicron COVID variant began to spread more widely. Initially, we intended to visit Costa Rica, but complications with canceled flights and
In a previous article in 2018, Road to Marrakech, I told the story of how dates are grown in Morocco. In October 2021, we visited a more local source of dates on the Colorado River and learned our dates are
California Adventure Part Five – I can hear you say, “What happened to parts one through four?” Well, I’ll tell you what happened … In 2020, I turned 65 and it also was my 40th year living in California. So,
In April, 2021l I was fortunate to do a long-awaited return visit to the UC Santa Cruz arboretum. I had previously visited in 2012 in route to a San Diego Horticultural Society tour of San Francisco Bay Gardens. It has
Just a year ago on this date life looked very different. This was to be the year to do my take on the California motto: “Eureka, I have found it”. I turned 65 in the middle of 2020 and also
This is a continuation of our trip to Costa Rica in November 2019. See Previous 2 post for earlier places we visited on the tour. After a final look at the bird and bromeliads at the Las Cruces Botanical station
After several days in around San José we boarded small planes and flew to the Pacific side of Costa Rica to Golfito, near the Panama border. Upon arrival we boarded small boats and visited a private garden on a island
In November of 2019, Scott and I participated in the Pacific Horticulture Tour of Costa Rica. San José Our trip started in the capital city, San José. From there we did several day long trips. On a walking tour of
In October 2019, the author joined a unique plant expedition to Peru, focusing on native cacti and bromeliads, alongside a visit to Machu Picchu. Inspired by Inca history, they explored the ancient site amidst fog and rain, experiencing its stunning architecture and biodiversity, while learning about its rich cultural significance and agriculture.
In September, a plant expedition tour in Peru focused on cacti and bromeliads, offering a unique experience beyond typical gardens. The journey included crossing the Andes, visiting cultural sites, and witnessing the rare Puya raimondii in Huascarán National Park. The blooming spectacle attracted numerous birds, highlighting its ecological significance.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the 2020 Chelsea Garden Show has been cancelled. How tired we all are of reading those words about our favorite garden tour, events and meetings. However, as I mentioned in my October 2019 column about
In May, I participated in the Pacific Horticulture tour of Wales, visiting various gardens and two notable garden shows: Malvern and Chelsea. Powis Castle was a highlight, featuring stunning terrace gardens with unique plants and historic architecture. The tour showcased diverse flora and provided insights into Welsh gardening traditions.
In May of 2019, Scott and I finally decided it was time to visit the tulip fields at Keukenhof in the Netherlands – described as the largest flower garden in the world. We’ve known about the tulip display for decades
The spring 2019, bloom in the Anza Borrego Desert was spectacular. Who knew after the super bloom in 2017 that just 2 years later there would be an even better bloom? The desert received frequent rains beginning October through February.
The spring 2019, bloom in the Anza Borrego Desert was spectacular. Who knew after the super bloom in 2017 that just 2 years later there would be an even better bloom? The desert received frequent rains beginning October through February.
In my previous post I wrote about the agriculture in Morocco as we had observed it on a trip there in November 2018. Morocco, however, is more famous for its beautiful architecture and gardens. Riads A riad is a classical Moroccan house,
They said each rug is unique, but we saw identical ones many times. In November 2018 we traveled with a group of friends to tour Morocco. It had been on our travel wish list for a while. Morocco has mosques,
In July 2018, Scott and I visited western South Dakota and Wyoming. We were in search of alpine wildflowers in the mountains to the east of Yellowstone National Park. We were not disappointed. Panayoti Kelaidis had recommended the trip on
In March of 2018 I was able to join a tour of Greece and Crete with a group, mostly from the San Francisco Bay area, known as the Hortisexuals. I had known the local plant guide, Liberto Dario, from the
In March of 2018, after viewing the romantic sunrise over the Myrtoan Sea among the ruins and wildflowers of Monemvasia, we spent the last week of the tour on the Greek Island of Crete.Crete is largest and most populous of
I first became aware of the Jardin Exotique from the 1990s TV show Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, hosted by Robin Leach. Perhaps you recall the show that gave a voyeuristic look at extravagant lifestyles. It was a bit over
In May 2017, I explored the stunning gardens of Portland, Oregon, on a Pacific Horticulture Society tour. The highlight was the Lan Su Chinese Garden, a replica of classical Suzhou gardens featuring intricate landscapes, native Chinese plants, and artistic craftsmanship. Its harmonious design and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination.
In the mid-1990s, the author enjoyed mountain biking in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, but after the Cedar Fire devastated the area in 2003, visits diminished. In 2023, they hiked Cuyamaca Peak, observing regeneration of Ceanothus and other species. Spectacular views replaced forest cover, revealing unique vegetation and wildflowers along the trail.
The Carrizo Plain National Monument in San Luis Obispo County is renowned for its spectacular spring wildflower blooms. After a wet winter, a group visited and witnessed an impressive variety of flowers, including the rare desert candle. The landscape showcased vibrant colors, creating a stunning floral tapestry across the hills.
Lower Green Valley Falls in San Diego County provides a refreshing experience after a late-season storm in May 2017. The easy hike to the falls revealed vibrant flora, including mimulus and native peonies, alongside impressive rock formations. The scenic trail also offered stunning views of the Sweetwater River and surrounding nature.
This is post is the last of a series of posts about a September 2016 trip to view the wildflowers and scenery of Western Australia. See post list or use links at the top or bottom of this post to
In September 2016, a visit to Stirling Range National Park revealed its rich biodiversity, featuring over 1,500 plant species, many unique to the area. The landscape, resembling Arizona’s with diverse flora like Kingia australis and Eucalyptus tetraptera, showcased the park’s ecological significance, culminating in scenic views from Central Lookout.
In September of 2016 while touring Southwest Australia, we set out for Fitzgerald River National Park ( 815,160 acres) a UNESCO Biosphere site. Unfortunately, the bridge across the mouth of the estuary had been severely damaged by a storm surge
In Sept of 2016 Scott Borden and i visited Southwestern Australia. We stayed a couple of nights in Esperance on the South Australia Sea. We explored the coastline and several national parks. The south coast has many large granite domes
Western Australia’s interior features distinctive orange-red soil, flat terrain, and extensive unpaved roads. The area is marked by nutrient-poor soils and unique flora. The journey includes a visit to Wave Rock, scenic stops, and the rabbit-proof fence, leading to the Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show, showcasing vast biodiversity through numerous native plant species.
At the end of September, 2016, after attending a Pacific Horticulture tour of Singapore and Bali gardens, I met up with Scott Borden for a tour of Western Australia…or as they might say in the land down under, a Strine
Agaves are great garden plants since most are low water, need little maintenance and can add a strong accent to gardens. However, there are also problems.The obvious problem with growing agaves is that many of them have sharp leaves. Some
We have a lot of agaves in our garden. However, it took me a while to warm up to agaves. One of the first ones I grew was Agave victoriae-reginae. It looks like a giant artichoke with stiff leaves that
This is a continuation of earlier posts about filling in our swimming pool and replacing it with a garden. The previous posts were about the construction and garden hardscape. This post is about the planting of the former pool area.
The author reflects on how a 1984 family trip to British Columbia inspired their gardening journey in Encinitas, California. Revisiting Butchart and VanDusen Gardens in 2016, they note significant differences in plant growth due to climatic variations. They now appreciate climate-appropriate gardening, moving away from earlier ambitions to replicate Canadian styles.
The author recounts a trip through South Africa, emphasizing the beauty of the Western Cape’s flora, including wildflowers and the Cape of Good Hope’s scenery. Highlights include a road trip along the Garden Route, exploration of indigenous plants, a wildlife preserve, and visits to botanical gardens and vineyards, culminating in a return home.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases over 7,000 plant species, including rare and endangered ones. The writer’s visit featured diverse plant collections, highlighting the King Protea, South Africa’s national flower. A subsequent sunny day revealed the garden’s full splendor, enhancing the experience significantly.
This year, I celebrated my 60th birthday by traveling, including a much-anticipated trip to South Africa. With a focus on its diverse plant life, particularly bulbs, I explored Nieuwoudtville, the “Bulb Capital of the World,” witnessing stunning wildflowers, quiver trees, and the breathtaking landscape of the Northern Cape’s blooming season.
This is the start of the 5th year I’ve been writing the series “My Life with Plants”. For anyone that knows me or has visited my garden, what they may find amazing is that in all those articles I’ve only
By late winter of 2003, we were ready to begin planting. Since purchasing the house in 1998, I had been contemplating what to plant. I observed the sun and shadow patterns carefully over several seasons and decided on the following
In keeping with the themes of our garden exhibit at this year’s San Diego County Fair and the influence Spanish architecture and gardens had on the 1915 Panama-California exposition, it seemed appropriate to recap part of a cycling tour of
Last month I wrote about finding and buying our current home in Mission Hills. However before we could move, we had to sell each of our houses. The spring of 1998 was the start of a housing boom and above
In 1983, the author bought a modest home in Encinitas, expecting to stay briefly. Instead, they renovated, adding a second floor and enhancing the garden while maximizing space. Updates included new balconies, an outdoor fireplace, and expanded patios, leading to increased functionality and aesthetic appeal, making the home ideal for the next eight years.
In October 2014, as the San Diego Horticultural Society celebrated its 21st anniversary, the president reflected on the organization’s impact over two decades. Memories included notable speakers, evolving gardening trends, and the invaluable contributions of volunteers. The author encourages others to share their horticultural experiences and become more involved in the society.
1994 was a year of big changes and surprises for me. I was starting to be aware that there were other people in San Diego who shared my passion for gardening and plants, however, I knew very few of them.
In the late 80s, facing a drought and the need for a low-maintenance garden, the author explored perennials. Their journey began at Buena Creek Nursery, where they connected with passionate gardeners and discovered unique plants. This experience not only transformed their garden but also integrated them into the horticultural community.
The author recounts their challenges with wildlife and pests in Encinitas, California, beginning with roof rats on their first night in a new home. Over 15 years, they encountered various animals and struggled with pests like whiteflies and snails. Utilizing organic methods, they eventually managed to control infestations while experiencing amusing raccoon antics.
In the late 1980s, the author, initially uninterested in garden mentorship, found inspiration from local gardens, particularly those of Alice Maynard and Karen Kees. Alice’s garden featured vibrant “sun colors” and unique plant arrangements, while Karen’s garden emphasized expansive plant drifts and innovative use of gray plants. Both gardens significantly influenced the author’s gardening style.
In previous articles I talked about creating the “bones” – the hardscape, trees and large plants- of my mid-80’s garden in Encinitas. But creating the garden was really all about my passion at the time…growing beautiful flowers. Growing up, as
After moving from the Bay Area to Encinitas, the author navigated the challenges of homeownership and gardening. They struggled with typical landscape plants, learned about local flora, and gradually redesigned their backyard. Through trial and error, they created a garden that reflected their personal touch, despite initial missteps and invasive species.
Thirty years ago, I relocated from the Bay Area to San Diego, seeking a better fit after facing cultural clashes and personal challenges. Despite initial skepticism about San Diego’s reputation, I discovered its charm and opportunities. Eventually, I found my home in Encinitas, fulfilling my desire for space and a garden.
In July, 2012, I was fortunate to join 23 horticultural-minded individuals on the Pacific Horticulture Society tour, Gardens & Castles of Scotland. All of the gardens were outstanding and we were very near the peak summer bloom. Scotland had a
The Santa Clara Valley stretches about 30 miles from the San Francisco peninsula in the north to the town of Hollister in the south. It sits atop some of the most productive farmland in the world. Decades before it gained
The first order of business after my arrival in the San Jose area was to find a place to live. The landscaping and view at a complex in Sunnyvale impressed me so I rented a 600 square foot 2nd floor
In August of 1979, I loaded up my lime green Ford Galaxy 500 with my few worldly possessions and potted jade plant and set out from Austin Texas for San Jose California. My mother joined me on the drive. We
Austin is situated on the Colorado River in Texas – not to be confused with the Colorado River that provides much of Southern California’s water. Dams along the river create a string of man-made lakes in the Austin area: Town
After graduating high school, I enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering program at the University of Texas in Austin, enjoying the sunnier climate compared to Houston. The university, rich from oil money, underwent significant development, showcasing diverse architecture and landscaping, including the LBJ Library. Notable trees and historical elements enhance the campus’s character.
After 3 years living in Missouri, my father accepted a new job in Houston and we moved to Texas in February of 1970. We had last lived in Houston in 1959. We moved into a neighborhood of newish tract homes.
The author reflects on their time in Kansas City, Missouri, describing its four distinct seasons and vibrant landscape. The excitement of moving to Gladstone is detailed, highlighting family traditions, local nature, and a sense of community. Visits to Branson and experiences around Lake Taneycomo further convey the beauty of Missouri’s countryside and familial connections.
On a white-hot day in July of 1965, our family returned to Wichita. The thermometer at a roadside bank sign said it was 105. Florida had been warm and humid, but never this hot. My father was transferred back to
The biggest publicly accessible landscape in Florida is also the largest subtropical wilderness in the US: Everglades National Park. At 2400 square miles it still only protects about 1/5 of the original Everglades. The Everglades are a natural freshwater drainage
On Halloween night of 1961 our family arrived at our new home in Plantation Florida, a fast growing suburb of Fort Lauderdale. To keep up with the growing population and demand for air conditioning, Florida Power and Light was building
In 1960, my father was transferred from Houston, Texas to Wichita, Kansas. I only have a few plant-related memories of Wichita. Our house had junipers and other evergreen foundation plantings with a Bermudagrass lawn and no trees. We planted portulaca
In 1959, we were transferred from Monahans, Texas, to Houston. Though both are very flat with spring thunderstorms and long hot summers, they have drastically different climates. Houston annually receives over 50 inches of rain compared to Monahans’ meager thirteen.
