Annie SHAW Annie SHAW

Why Lawns Are a Problem

The cost that lawns place on us collectively is huge. In this article we discuss how lawns have gone from a necessity to a disaster in a few short generations, and what we can do about them.

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Annie SHAW Annie SHAW

How on Earth Do I Water These Plants?

It’s true that almost all plants - even those that are drought tolerant - need water to get them established. What’s the most sustainable way to achieve that?

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Annie SHAW Annie SHAW

Our Favorite Bay Area Botanical Gardens

Botanical gardens are places where plants are grown for display to the public and often for scientific study. Visiting public botanic gardens is a great way to get some exercise, sunshine, fresh air, and inspiration for your garden.

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Annie SHAW Annie SHAW

Winter Flowering Plants For Your Dry Garden

During the winter months, when so many garden plants are taking a rest or going dormant, it is wonderful to have plants in the dry garden that burst into bloom to give you a reminder of the warmth of summer. We’ve rounded up a few of the most reliable, tough, and easy to grow plants that flower in mid winter in this area.

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Annie SHAW Annie SHAW

The Joy of Mulch

Mulches shade the soil, keeping plant roots cool in the hot sun, and warmer at night when the air temperature drops. Mulch also helps soil retain water, so that the moisture levels are more even between waterings, and can reduce erosion from water runoff.

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Annie SHAW Annie SHAW

Water Features in the Garden: Yes or No?

Almost everyone is cheered up by the sight or sound of water in a garden. Many homeowners have fantasies that involve relaxing next to a beautiful koi pond listening to the calming flow of water and gurgling fountains or waterfalls.

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Annie SHAW Annie SHAW

Top 10 Native Plants for the Xeric Garden

Birds and beneficial insects are important wildlife that are part of the natural ecology of a place, and it is easy to create habitat gardens by incorporating native plants that are attractive to them.

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