Under the Solano Sun

The abutilon belongs to the Mallow family-like hibiscus and Rose of Sharon-you can see the similarities. Other names for abutilon are Chinese Lantern, Chinese Bellflower, and the Flowering Maple but do not belong to the Maple family. They got their common names because of the shape of their leaves.

Stop for just a moment and think about where you are reading this blog.

Narcissus are the herald of spring, with their trumpet-shaped and brightly colored blooms, they are a sight for sore eyes, announcing the warmer days are coming. These early spring-blooming bulbs now come in shades of white, yellow, orange, pink, and green, many with combinations of colors.

Since my calendar doesn't have a date for the beginning of Spring, I will just have to announce its arrival in my front yard.

Plants have to put up with a lot! Winds can be severe enough to cause physical damage or persistent enough to dry plants out. Winds that bring dust or ash can also make plants' lives more difficult.