~ A somewhat autobiographical look at how plants have impacted my life ~
Chasing Waterfalls
I finally made it to Niagara Falls!
But we also visited many more waterfalls in the Finger Lakes area of New York State. But our primary goal was to visit Watkins Glen State park where there are 19 waterfalls in a 1.5 mile hike with over 900 steps. We also checked out other waterfalls near Ithaca and even paid a visit to the Cornell Botanic Gardens, marveling at the area’s natural wonders. The trip ended with touring gardens at the annual Garden Fling in Buffalo.
Pool Be Gone
By 2000, we had finished most of the renovations inside the house. Initially, one of our main goals was to address the pool area, which had many issues. The most noticeable problem was that all the concrete block planters around
Seville’s Romantic Real Alcázar
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
Steep Challenge
While we were working on remodeling the house, I was desperate to create a garden. However, there were a few challenges to overcome. First, most of the house is surrounded by walkways and patios leaving very little gardening space near
Lots of Blocks
A common question we receive about our garden is regarding the origin and builders of the retaining walls. Except for a few of the newer walls, all were constructed by me and my partner, Scott. We learned through trial and
Creating a Garden
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
On the Move
I met Scott Borden in September of 1994. November of that year we visited Maui. In June of 1995 we spent my 40th birthday mountain biking and hiking in the eastern Sierras. By 1996, we were alternating spending weekends and
Raising the Roof
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
Holy Basil
The author reflects on their vegetable garden in Encinitas, detailing its raised beds made from railroad ties and the challenges of growing certain crops. They found success with tomatoes and various basil types, creating flavorful dishes and pesto. Over time,
Uncle Harry
The narrative reflects on the author’s family heritage, highlighting a watercolor painting by great-aunt Bess and the intriguing life of great-uncle Harry. Bess, who was deaf, created artwork despite her circumstances, while Harry, a passionate naturalist, authored a hiking booklet
SD Horticultural Society turns 21
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
1994
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.
Perennial Adventure
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