The Savvy Sage

Can you guess which plant: Was first grown in the Peruvian Highlands between eight thousand and five thousand years BC Was poisonous if not eaten with clay until modified varieties were propagated Is now the fifth most important food crop in the world Produces asexually, creating endless clones, lik...

As I have learnt more about the interweaving of all the aspects of gardening soil, nutrition, seasonal timing, insects (beneficial and not), right plant, right place I have become fascinated by our native bees.

As the tender of a four-seasons kitchen garden, I find winter a surprisingly busy time. I do not plant in December or January, because it is too cold and wet for seeds to germinate.

Sustainability focuses on supporting biodiversity and protecting the bees, birds, butterflies, caterpillars, and other wildlife in our gardens and back yards. By understanding water flow dynamics, we can learn how actions in our gardens and backyards affect other important outdoor spaces.

Jim Fowler has been an invaluable part of the UC Master Gardener Program for over 20 years and has achieved Platinum Badge status and beyond, earning a sapphire pin. He amassed over five thousand volunteer hours during this time.