Plant Guides

Cultural Information Plant guavas in a sunny location sheltered from strong winter winds. They should be kept moist and planted in a soil with good drainage. Since guavas are tropical, they can be subject to frost damage. While the small branches of the plants can be killed by heavy frost, the plant will regenerate [...] Read Full Article

Cultural Information These easy-to-grow shrubs are quite undemanding, requiring only a rich, well-drained soil, regular watering and feeding. Plants will tolerate full sun on the coast but need partial shade inland, preferably morning sun but protected from the burning hot afternoon sun or dappled sunlight all day. Hydrangeas are deciduous and drop their foliage in the [...] Read Full Article

Cultural Information Cymbidiums thrive in temperate conditions in partially shaded areas of the garden. It's important that they receive enough light since this determines the quantity and size of their flower spikes and subsequent number of flowers. Cymbidiums initiate their flower spikes during the months of August through November and prefer as a wide range [...] Read Full Article

Cultural Information Camellias need a rich, moist, well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter. Camellias tend to be somewhat surface rooted so a yearly application of mulch is very beneficial. While established plants can tolerate full sun, bright filtered light is best. Protection from hot afternoon sun will help prevent leaf burn and keep [...] Read Full Article

Cultural Information Understanding and duplicating the African Violet's natural environment is the key to successfully growing this favorite. Growing in a tropical rain forest tells us that reduced educed light, high humidity and proper moisture are key requirements. North- or east-facing windows are probably the best places in the home. Avoid hot, direct sun [...] Read Full Article

Cultural Information California native plants aren't only water-wise once established, but usually require less maintenance. Planting 1. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball. Fill the hole with water and allow to drain away. 2. Using E.B. Stone Planting Compost combine three parts soil and one part planting compost. At the same time mix [...] Read Full Article

Cultural Information Choose a sunny location with some means of support. Three or four strands of wire stung horizontally and securely fastened to posts is all that's needed. As the fruit ripens, yellow jackets, wasps and birds can sometimes be a problem. Place yellow jacket traps around the garden to reduce their numbers. Netting [...] Read Full Article

Cultural Information Irises are one of the most rewarding and easy-to-grow plants, doing best in full sun. Soils should be well drained. August and September are the months to plant. Blooms first appear in April and, depending on the varieties, irises continue to bloom into summer. Today there are many Bearded Irises that [...] Read Full Article

Cultural Information Fuchsias prefer a cool, moist environment. They're very much at home along the coast and tolerate some direct sun. Inland, they can be somewhat difficult, but can be a splendid addition to the shade garden. Fuchias are divided into three forms - trailing, semi-trailing and upright. Trailing forms are ideal for hanging [...] Read Full Article

The mere mention of the word hibiscus immediately calls to mind lush tropical foliage, exotic flowers, warm breezes, swaying palms and the sweet scent of flowers.  Now a new name has been added - Hotbiscus. The exotic group of hibiscus varieties was originally developed by amateur hybridizers that were interested in [...] Read Full Article