From Balcony to Yard: Designing Your Urban Garden

Living in San Francisco often means gardening in small yards, shared spaces, or containers on a deck — and working with fog, shade, and shifting microclimates. In this talk, we’ll explore how to turn those constraints into opportunities, from understanding your light and soil to choosing plants that thrive, including edibles. We’ll cover foundational principles that help a garden feel intentional and cohesive, even at a small scale. You’ll also leave with practical tips and seasonal strategies to keep your garden healthy, productive, and beautiful year-round.

UC Master Gardener Presenter: Rebecca Flato is a seasoned design director with extensive experience in fashion retail and a growing focus on landscape design. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Rebecca pursued her long-standing interest in gardening and landscapes. She has since cultivated her expertise, becoming a certified California Native Plant Landscaper and a UC Master Naturalist. Her landscape design approach integrates a deep understanding of native California ecology, blending aesthetics with sustainability. She is committed to bringing an ecology-focused perspective to landscape design, with an emphasis on restoring native habitats and promoting biodiversity.

Photo credit: Jesse Schlenker, UC Master Gardener