Test PB Collection: FTE

Because a majority of the world's bulbs are native to the Cape of South Africa and the Mediterranean Basin, most thrive in the same Mediterranean climate we enjoy in Sonoma County.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) involves the use of environmentally sound, effective practices to keep pests, diseases, and weeds from damaging gardens. IPM begins by identifying the pest, disease, or weed, then selecting the most effective methods and materials for controlling the problem.

Of the many different types of materials that can be used to cover the ground, only mulch derived from plants benefits the soil and the garden. Learn why.

Beyond the practical advantages of covering the groundwater conservation, soil health, weed controlmulch contributes to the beauty of a garden setting. Spread beneath stems and branches, it highlights colors, shapes, and textures of foliage and bark.

There are several steps to undertake when laying mulch, some of them more strenuous than others, especially in large gardens. In expansive areas, it helps to approach this task in increments, rather than accepting a challenge of completing it in only one go-around.

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Pennisetum orientale is one of the most graceful of all ornamental grasses, perfectly suited to our Sonoma County dry-summer, Mediterranean climate despite its origins in China, Southwestern Asia, and Northern India.

Achillea millefolium, called common yarrow, is a sturdy, carefree, and steady bloomer from late spring through fall in Sonoma Countys Mediterranean climate.

A member of the mint family (Lamiaceae, that also includes Lavandula and Salvia), Teucrium is a fairly large genus of evergreen or deciduous perennials, shrubs, and subshrubs that includes species ranging from low tufts to the nearly 8-ft. tall bush germander.

Berberis (barberry) is a genus of ornamental evergreen and deciduous shrubs that includes over 400 species, the majority of which come from the temperate zones of East Asia, the remaining from North and South America.