Coastal and Tropical South
August, 2006
Regional Report
Web Finds
Earth Times
One of the joys of the Internet is the ability to reach to other places that share at least some of our challenges. Sandy soil usually needs amending, but the opinions about how and what to use are quite varied. Dr. Donald Trotter, noted organic gardening author from San Diego, puts the shovel to the sandy soil in his article posted at Earth Times: Building good soil is the foundation of a healthy garden.
Favorite or New Plant
Canna australis
Deep, wine red leaves caught my eye first, then I noticed the Canna australis was growing in a relatively shady location. I'd seen the burgundy canna in full sun, and its leaves were red, but with pleasing green overtones. Admittedly, the semi-shade plants have fewer flowers, but for pure color and whimsical form, this plant deserves another look.
