Green onions, also known as scallions or spring onions, originated in Central Asia. Records indicate their culinary use in ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and the Chinese. European settlers introduced them to America in the 17th century, where they...
The Aztecs gave us words like “chocolate,” “tomato,” and “avocado.” They developed chinampas, or floating gardens, to feed their large population. And they were the first to cultivate zinnias, a flower they called...
Southern California’s mild climate offers the perfect environment for native and exotic blooms and, by extension, pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These tiny creatures facilitate plant reproduction and garden health. In return,...
Artichokes are cool-season perennials. In California, they’re typically planted in the fall and produce buds in the spring after they overwinter. They require cool weather to form buds, a chilling period known as vernalization. The plants thrive in mild winters...
Love ’em or hate ’em, there’s no denying the nutritional punch and distinct flavor of Brussels sprouts. Glucosinolate compounds are responsible for their bitterness and intense aroma. When roasted, Brussels sprouts develop a sweet, caramelized flavor...
