Sustainable Gardening

Have you ever harvested a tomato with a crack in the skin, found a few aphids on your kale, had a few holes in your cabbage leaves or dug up a crooked carrot and wondered what went wrong? If so, you're not alone.   Many beginning and experienced vegetable gardeners expect homegrown…

Artificial Turf in the Home Yard and Garden Artificial turf has been in use since the mid-1960’s, and has gained in popularity in home landscaping as well as in community and commercial settings. Because of the  drought crises, artificial turf was  promoted as a low-water alternative to…

 Gardens are meant for plants, right? So why encourage birds to join us there? The most obvious reason is that many of us love birds.  They are beautiful to look at, and we delight in hearing them sing. Birds bring a whole extra dimension to the enjoyment of nature in your outdoor place. But even…

 California native plants can add beauty to your garden, reduce your water use and support the native wildlife.  All good!  This blog discusses why native plants are important, the communities in which they naturally grow and how that knowledge can guide your plant selection.  Why…

Winter cover crops can boost soil health in your Alameda County vegetable garden. Learn which plants to grow and how they benefit your garden beds.

Create wildlife habitats in your Alameda County garden with tips on supporting birds, bees, and other beneficial creatures around your home landscape.

Gardening with graywater is a smart, sustainable way to conserve water, cut costs, and nourish plants—learn safe, effective tips in this practical guide.

Essential warm season irrigation checklist for Alameda County gardens. Test sprinklers, drip systems & timers to keep plants thriving all summer.