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

Primary Image
photos by Al Alvarado
Under the Solano Sun: Article

Merry Christmas Cactus!

December 13, 2022
We have an enchanting little plant that sits on our kitchen counter. This plant has many common names, such as Thanksgiving cactus, crab cactus, Easter cactus, and holiday cactus, but is most known as the Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera).
View Article
Primary Image
"ose Garden of the White House by The White House is marked with Public Domain Mark 1.0.
Under the Solano Sun: Article

From the White House to Your House

December 12, 2022
Though we think of our country's capitol as a place of constant change, with Congress and the administration making grand entrances and exits every two and possibly every four years, there is one place that continues to be relatively stable the pristine grounds of the White House.
View Article
Primary Image
Franz and Bowie under the Rainbow. photo by Melinda Nestlerode
Under the Solano Sun: Article

Where Have All the Rainbows Gone?

December 9, 2022
As a child in California, rainbows were a common occurrence during the winter. We had plenty of rain. California was the bread basket of our country; our primary source for tomatoes, almonds, grapes, cotton, and dozens of other products.
View Article
Primary Image
Compost
Under the Solano Sun: Article

Leaves

December 8, 2022
What do you think of when you see leaves? By now you have heard leaves are good, maybe you even have some in your compost pile. You may know from Compost 101 that compost does best with a mix of browns and greens, and that fallen leaves are usually a brown.
View Article
Primary Image
photos by Michelle Davis
Under the Solano Sun: Article

Tetrapanex papyrifer

December 6, 2022
Do you have a plant or plants that you really find annoying or that you just purely don't like? I would guess that the question popped up a memory of some long-ago plant that you let die unceremoniously or that you, again long ago, put out of your (not its) misery.
View Article