The annual cactus and succulent show at the Los Angeles Arboretum is the largest in the world. It’s a 2-hour drive for me, but I wouldn’t miss it. When I see a plant I’ve never seen before or a perfect specimen of something I’m familiar with, I go slack-jawed and stare. And this year there were dozens. [...]
My garden, near San Diego, has been in Better Homes & Gardens, Sunset and the San Diego Union-Tribune, among others. Sunset was the first. I interested them by sending the editor this shot of my succulent sitting area. Sunset sent garden photographer Claire Curran who arrived with an assistant and a van full of equipment. We [...]
This is my newly released book, Succulent Container Gardens. Ever wonder how a garden book’s cover comes about? Consider: A cover has to be eye-catching and effectively illustrate the title, and convey that the book is the definitive source of information on that topic. Ideally, it also entices readers with appealing plants and an engaging idea. A book’s [...]
The door has swung open on a new decade, so I’ve decided to swing open some garden gates. See if you don’t agree that each gate hints at the garden beyond and the owner’s personality and style. My dog’s silhouette is similar to that of a Scottie, so I’m starting with a gate I wish were mine. I like its color and watering-can door knocker, [...]