What kind of banana plant bears flowers but no fruit? A bird of paradise, of course. Yes, that exotic-looking plant in your neighbor’s yard is actually a banana expatriate from South Africa, a country known for bizarrely beautiful flora and large carnivorous...
Staining protects wood’s natural beauty. It highlights the grain, adds depth, and shields the material from sunlight, moisture, and wear. Your choice of wood stain and the quality of your application can dramatically alter the look and feel of the finished...
Does life have you tied in knots? Try Zen. No, you don’t have to withdraw to a mountaintop retreat when you can build a Zen garden instead. A Zen garden won’t solve your troubles but can help you find peace in a hectic and demanding world. Cue the bamboo...
Latex or oil-based? Matte or gloss? You haven’t even started painting, and already you’re paralyzed with indecision. It’s the paradox of choice — too many options shut down your brain, and you walk away buying nothing. But selecting house paint —...
Plumeria? Check. Jacaranda? Check check. These tropical trees thrive in Southern California’s Mediterranean climate. That said, some trees fare much better than others and reward the attentive LA gardener with spectacular spring and early summer flowers....
