Under the Solano Sun

golden yellow sunflower highlighted in a field of sunflowers against the blue sky

Seasonal observations by UC Master Gardeners of Solano County

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photo by Thanasis Papazacharias on Pixabay
Under the Solano Sun: Article

Oleander: Shrub or Toxic Weed?

June 21, 2024
Oleander, also known as Nerium oleander, is a fascinating plant that often sparks curiosity and debate. Is it a toxic weed or a beautiful shrub? Oleander is celebrated for its stunning flowers, which come in a variety of colors such as pink, white, red, and yellow.
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1 Prickly Pear Cactus Pena Adobe - A.Alvarado
Under the Solano Sun: Article

Prickly Pear in Bloom at Peña Adobe

June 17, 2024
There is a magnificent old cactus garden located in Pea Adobe Regional Park, just west of Vacaville, CA. I was in awe when I first discovered the garden, noticing that some of the cactuses were huge with thick wood-like trunks.
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Snugs and the seed packets. Photos by Brenda Altman
Under the Solano Sun: Article

Buy Too Many Seeds?

June 14, 2024
I have been finding packs of seeds everywhere: in my garage, on the back shelf of my porch, in my car side pockets, in my garden work basket, and scattered throughout the house. I hate to throw them away, maybe I can plant them next season.
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photos by Nanelle Jones-Sullivan
Under the Solano Sun: Article

Cistus Are Doin' It For Themselves

June 13, 2024
If you live in California, you have seen Cistus. Cistus, or Rockrose are amazingly self-reliant in our Mediterranean climate. They are so good at growing independently, that they resist being manipulated and controlled.
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