If there’s a good thing about our too-hot Southern California summers, it’s that heat makes certain succulents turn color. A case in point is Aloe nobilis, which in my garden grows in nutrient-poor decomposed granite with minimal water. In winter, the same plant reverts to green. Such “stressed” succulents—which seal moisture in their leaves as [...]
Chris and John Gleason of San Diego did a brave thing: They tore out a perfectly fine front yard. Most people who want to save water merely let their lawns die and replace them with less thirsty plants. The Gleasons went several steps further. They got rid of a healthy ornamental plum tree and a privacy hedge that [...]
When Designing with Succulents became a bestseller in 2007, few people knew what was really going on with me. I’m sharing it now because it might encourage others to persevere through difficult times. A bit of backstory: For half my life, I didn’t live up to my potential due to fear of failure. A highly [...]
I As I sailed past him one mild January day, trowel in hand, I announced to my husband Jeff my intent to stay home this spring instead of going on tour. “I’m done with delayed flights and sleeping in airports,” I said. “I’m going to have people come here instead.” I quickly realized the garden needed a LOT of work. It reflected [...]
At last fall’s Succulent Extravaganza, I had fun showing creative designs by members of the Succulent Fanatics, a Facebook group founded by San Jose master gardener Laura Balaoro. My presentation and ensuing YouTube video went over so well, I’m doing something similar at the San Francisco Flower and Garden Show on March 19. Designers whose ideas, [...]