Under the Solano Sun

yellow sunflower closeup picture

Seasonal observations by UC Master Gardeners of Solano County

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hand reaching to pluck some olives from a tree

My Olive Tree Story

March 12, 2026
Blog by Jenni DodiniI spent hours trying to figure out how to take care of these olive trees that I have become responsible for on our property. I came to the conclusion that I might be overthinking the whole thing after poring through multiple sites, but I kept on and found that there are enough sites…
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foliage and flowers of cymbidium orchids

Orchids and Dandelions

March 11, 2026
Blog by Nanelle Jones-Sullivan Horticultural therapy teaches that in the garden, metaphors can bridge nature and human experience. One of my favorite metaphors is used in a theory called “orchids and dandelions.” This theory by W. Thomas Boyce explains that “children fall into two categories: resilient …
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closeup of Chinese elm bark with colors like cream, grey and red

Chinese Elm-Color and Texture Galore!

March 10, 2026
Blog by Michelle KrespiI so rarely write about trees, but this particular tree, Ulmus parvifolia, commonly known as Chinese Elm or Lacebark Elm, was up close and personal to me as I was having brunch at a Fairfield restaurant. I pay attention to the barks of trees after taking Plant ID at Solano…
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hanging plant with yellowing leaves

A Lesson Learned While Repotting Indoor Plants

March 9, 2026
Blog by Paula PashbyIt is early February, and I am delighted that the winter rain has returned. There are some plants in my garden that are budding early because of the warm days last week, but most are still nicely tucked in for the winter duration. Now that I have some downtime, I can shift my attention to…
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two cats up in the tree limbs

And Then There was BOOM...er!

March 5, 2026
Blog by Michelle SchlegelWe all have our garden companions, or at least I hope so. My dog Wally, an Akbash, is an amazing protector from dangerous predators to both humans and smaller animals. He lies nearby and watches out, even though some of the cats harass him (in playful ways). But Boomer loves to…
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