Southern California Coastal & Inland Valleys
April, 2012
Regional Report
National News - From NGA Editors
A Titanic Flower
The titan arum (Amorphophallus titanum) is one of the most spectacular plants around. This native of Indonesian rain forests grows from a corm that weighs over 200 pounds. Its flower is composed...
Rhododendron of the Year
Rhododendrons and azaleas (both members of the genus Rhododendron ) have some of the loveliest blooms around, so it's not surprising that these shrubs are popular plants across the country. But...
Put Your Garden on the Map
Gardeners are usually bird lovers as well as plant enthusiasts. Now you can combine both these interests in a citizen science project that's designed to give you a deeper understanding of the...
The Strange Case of Barberry, Ticks, and Earthworms
We've all probably heard about the problems caused by invasive plant species crowding out native vegetation and altering the ecosystem. But new research has shown that at least one invasive...
In the Garden
Water, Precious (and Expensive) Water!
Teaching plant roots to grow deeply for water will lessen irrigation needs during hot weather but still enable plants to thrive.
Before planting baby plants and seeds, make sure that irrigation drip lines, soaker hoses, sprinklers, and trenches...
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Resources
Favorite or New Plant
Any That Attract Beneficial Insects! To encourage beneficial insects to populate your garden, provide them with their chosen foods...
Clever Gardening Technique
Soda Jugs Become Watering Tools Recycle 2-liter plastic soda bottles into drip-irrigation containers. Punch two small holes...
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Regional Reminders
- Solve Seed-Starting Problems
- Include Edible Flowers for Foliage and Bloom
- Feed Trees
- Thin Fruit Tree Fruits Ruthlessly
- Mow Lawns Frequently
