Garden Journal

Urban Garden Composting: Our Compost Tumbler Basics
This article is going to focus on how we started composting, and the factors we are considering as we work to expand and DIY our newest compost system. It's my hope that you will follow our composting adventures and find system of composting that works for you. So,...

Growing Artichokes: Common Questions From Readers
Growing artichokes is such a joy. ♥ Here in Southern California artichokes are easy to grow. They love our mediterranean climate and are fantastic candidates for those of you looking to create an edible, low-maintenance landscape. If you go to the grocery store,...

How to Grow Leeks- An Easy Cool Season Crop
Want to talk about a plant-it-and-forget-it crop? Leeks are not only delicious, but they are extremely low maintenance, easy to grow from seed, and take up very little space! The best news might be that, even in a garden typically plagued by pests, leeks tend to...

Our Favorite Ways To Use & Preserve Citrus
One of the best parts about gardening in Southern California is the citrus. This time of year there is literally citrus galore---especially in Orange County. I grew up in a neighborhood, not far from where I live now, that used to be an orange grove. In fact, many...

What Does Direct Sowing vs. Transplanting Mean?
What does it mean to direct sow seeds? How do I know if I should direct sow? These are common questions I get from readers, so I'd like to take some time to define some of these terms and also cover the pros and cons of direct sowing and the alternative: ...

Things To Consider When Buying a Fruit Tree
Are you considering buying a fruit tree? Welcome! You are about to embark on a rewarding edible landscape journey. While I will try fun and interesting new vegetables or flowers on a whim, fruit trees are different. Fruit trees typically cost more money, take longer...

Growing Peas in Southern California
Is there anything better than walking through the garden, plucking a pea from the vine, and devouring it as a sweet and crunchy snack? Today I'm here to share my tips for growing peas in Southern California. Peas are usually touted as being an "easy to grow"...

Fresh Homemade Holiday Wreath Tutorial
Being a gardener and a plant lover, it's no surprise that I spot fresh, local greenery that is perfect for home decor everywhere I look. As the holidays approach, I like to find ways to bring the garden indoors to enjoy. I'm going to show you how it's possible to take...