The serviceberry tree (genus Amelanchier) bears spectacular white flowers in early spring, followed by sweet, blueberry-like fruit in the summer. Its fall foliage turns brilliant shades of orange and red. Varieties of this North American plant range from small shrubs...
Salvia is a genus of around 1,000 species, including ornamentals, wildflowers, and culinary herbs like sage. Native to the Mediterranean, Central and South America, and Asia, it has been used worldwide in traditional medicine, cooking, and cultural ceremonies. Its...
LA’s dry and sometimes unforgiving soil can make even simple yard projects challenging. You may find therapy in gardening, but do you want to work harder than you need to? In SoCal’s mild climate with year-round plant growth, the upkeep never ceases, even...
Imagine going 20 years without a haircut or grooming session. Now imagine you’re a Palo Verde tree. Same thing, different species. Unpruned Palo Verde is a tangled mess of brambles and branches, sometimes with no discernible tree form. But trimmed into shape,...
DIYers love tools. They collect them like squirrels gathering nuts for the winter — there can never be enough. But while owning every tool under the sun sounds appealing, is it practical? Renting tools instead can save space, money, and stress, especially for the...
Tequila anyone? Agave holds an honored place in Mexican culture, and not just for the alcohol distilled from its juice. Agave fibers are used to create sturdy ropes, mats, and other textiles. Agave nectar is a natural sweetener, and roasted agave hearts are a...
