Under the Solano Sun

For years I thought this tree at our seasonal pond, was a Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia). Finally, I decided to look more closely into its identity. A Brazilian pepper is, of course, one of the topmost invasive species, mostly where there is plenty of water, like Florida and Texas.

I have been on fire mitigation detail all summer long around my place. Those of you who know my place know that my house along with the 2 other houses on the property are surrounded by trees.

In June, 2024, I wrote a blog about a magnificent old Prickly Pear Opuntia basilaris cactus garden located in the Pea Adobe Regional Park, just west of Vacaville, CA https://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=60014.

As gardeners, we know that we have failures and sadly wind up sometimes killing a plant we love. Such was the case with my Begonia rex. It lived for several years outdoors in a spot that had indirect light. At first, it thrived, but then it began to deteriorate.

Mid-November isn't the ideal time to tour an East Coast garden, especially during that transitional period between vibrant fall color and the twinkling holiday lights. Everything is brown and grey.