Southern California Coastal & Inland Valleys
November, 2009
Regional Report
National News - From NGA Editors
New Hawaiian Taro Plants
The hot summer weather may be long gone, but fall is a good time of year to reflect on what grew well and plan for next spring. Colocassia, or taro, is a tropical plant that has huge leaves and...
Deep Composting
Composting is a great fall activity. Instead of shipping your leaves, grass clippings, and old annual plants to the landfill, they can be used to make a rich soil amendment for your garden. Most...
Creating a Nation of Farmers
It is well-known that there are serious problems with our food system. Its heavily dependent on fossil fuels, making it vulnerable to rising gas and oil prices. It contributes to pollution and...
Stop Cats from Catching Birds
Cats are cute and cuddly, but they still are felines. Their instincts are to hunt. Many cat owners are horrified to find their cat stalking and killing birds, especially those at the bird feeder....
In the Garden
The (Almost) Last Pests: Nematodes, Sowbugs and Pillbugs, Thrips
Nematodes are particularly nasty for many garden plants, but incorporating lots of good old organic matter will help. Sowbugs and pillbugs -- favorite playthings when I was a child -- are more vilified (along with earwigs) than they deserve, since...
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Resources
Web Finds
Integrated Pest Management Resource The prime resource for information on managing pests in the garden, landscape, and home in...
Clever Gardening Technique
Toasted Bird Seed Avoid the nuisance of sprouted bird seed that's spilled out of its container. Bake it on a...
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Regional Reminders
- Harvest Potatoes
- Beautiful Broccoflower
- Herb Wreaths or Vinegar Gifts
- Water Cold-Hardy Grapes and Deciduous Trees
- Compost Care
