tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28221811571203076002024-03-20T02:31:51.930-07:00How I garden.Life, liberty, and the pursuit of gardening.Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-19709944228925154972012-09-02T08:56:00.000-07:002012-09-02T08:56:08.632-07:00September Gardening.Hello Friends,<br />
<br />
Guess what? It's time to start thinking about the cool season. Yes, I know, it still <i>feels</i> like summer, but it is quickly transitioning to fall. Here in So. California our fall weather is marked by cooling nights, shortening days, and gorgeous sunsets. <br />
<br />
There are lots of tasks to do to get ready for the fall veggies, flowers and bulbs. The following link is a great resource for getting ready:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Cscript%20type=%27text/javascript%27%3E%20var%20hzw_id=4919765;function%20hzwshow%28id,v,delay%29%7Bvar%20showDiv=document.getElementById%28%27hzexpand%27+id%29;if%28v%29%7B%20position=function%28element%29%7B%20var%20p=%7Bx:%20element.offsetLeft%20%7C%7C%200,y:element.offsetTop%20%7C%7C%200%7D;while%28element=element.offsetParent%29%7B%20p.x%20+=%20element.offsetLeft;p.y%20+=%20element.offsetTop;%7D%20return%20p;%7D;var%20ref=document.getElementById%28%27hzfooter%27+id%29;var%20p=position%28ref%29;var%20scrollX=%28window.pageXOffset%7C%7C%28document.body.scrollLeft-10%29%7C%7Cdocument.documentElement.scrollLeft%29;var%20x=Math.min%28Math.max%28p.x%20-%28300-ref.offsetWidth%29/2%20,scrollX%29,%28window.innerWidth%20%7C%7C%20document.body.clientWidth%29%20+%20scrollX%20-300%29;var%20root=document.body;root.insertBefore%28showDiv,root.firstChild%29;showDiv.style.top=%28p.y%20+%20ref.offsetHeight%20+%203%29%20+%20%27px%27;showDiv.style.left=x%20+%20%27px%27;%7D%20var%20timeout=window%5B%27hzwtimeout%27+id%5D;if%28timeout%29%20clearInterval%28timeout%29;if%28delay%20&&%20%21v%29%7B%20window%5B%27hzwtimeout%27+id%5D=setTimeout%28%27hzwshow%28%27+id+%27,false,false%29%27,400%29;%7D%20else%7B%20showDiv.style.display=v?%27block%27:%27none%27;%7D%20%7D%20%3C/script%3E%3Cstyle%20type=%27text/css%27%3E#hzroot4919765%20div%20%7Bwidth:100%;%7D#hzfooter4919765%20%7Bline-height:normal;%7D%20#hzfooter4919765%20a%20%7Btext-decoration:none;%7D%20#hzfooter4919765%20a:hover%20%7Btext-decoration:underline;%7D%20#hzexpand4919765%20%7Bdisplay:none;width:290px%20%21important;position:absolute;background-color:#222;border:1px%20solid%20#888;padding:4px;padding-top:8px;padding-bottom:8px;text-align:left;font-family:%20arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;line-height:130%;z-index:100;%7D%20#hzexpand4919765%20div%20%7Bcolor:#eee%20%21important;text-align:left;font-family:%20arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;line-height:130%;%7D%20#hzexpand4919765%20a%20%7Bcolor:#ccc%20%21important;text-decoration:none;%7D%20#hzexpand4919765%20a:hover%20%7Btext-decoration:underline;%7D%20#hzsection4919765%20%7Bmargin-top:8px;%7D%20%3C/style%3E%3Cdiv%20id=%27hzroot4919765%27%20style=%27width:300px;text-align:center;font-size:12px;padding:0;border:0;margin:0;%27%3E%3Cdiv%20style=%27font-size:14px;margin-bottom:3px;%27%3E%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2758250/list/Southern-California-Gardener-s-September-Checklist%22%3ESouthern%20California%20Gardener%27s%20September%20Checklist%3C/a%3E%3C/div%3E%3Cdiv%20style=%27padding:0;margin:0;border:0;margin-bottom:3px;%27%3E%3Ciframe%20name=%27HouzzWidget3690716.987475753%27%20id=%27HouzzWidget3690716.987475753%27%20border=0%20frameborder=%270%27%20SCROLLING=NO%20style=%27border:0%20none;width:300px;height:275px;%27%20src=%22http://www.houzz.com/jsGalleryWidget/gallery/2758250//new_window=yes/title_on=yes/width=300%22%3E%3C/iframe%3E%3C/div%3E%3Cdiv%20id=%22hzfooter4919765%22%20style=%22position:relative%22%3E%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.houzz.com%22%3EHouzz%3C/a%3E-%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.houzz.com/photos/kitchen%22%3EKitchen%20Remodel%3C/a%3E,%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.houzz.com/photos/bathroom%22%3EBathroom%20Remodel%3C/a%3E%20and%20%3Ca%20href=%22#%22%20style=%22text-decoration:underline;%22%20onclick=%22return%20false;%22%20onmouseover=%22hzwshow%284919765,%20true%29%22%20onmouseout=%22hzwshow%284919765,%20false,%20true%29%22%3EMore&nbsp;&raquo;%3C/a%3E%3C/div%3E%3Cdiv%20style=%22position:relative%22%3E%3Cdiv%20id=%22hzexpand4919765%22%20style=%22position:absolute;left:0px;%22%20onmouseover=%22hzwshow%284919765,%20true%29%22%20onmouseout=%22hzwshow%284919765,%20false,%20true%29%22%3E%3Cdiv%20id=%22hzsection4919765%22%3EBrowse%20Home%20Office%20Products%20on%20Houzz-%20For%20Example:%3C/div%3E%3Cdiv%3E%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.houzz.com/photos/bulletin-board%22%3EBulletin%20Board%3C/a%3E&#160;&#183;%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.houzz.com/photos/cable-management%22%3ECable%20Management%3C/a%3E&#160;&#183;%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.houzz.com/photos/desk-accessories%22%3EDesk%20Accessories%3C/a%3E&#160;&#183;%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.houzz.com/photos/desks%22%3EDesks%3C/a%3E&#160;&#183;%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.houzz.com/photos/filing-cabinets-and-carts%22%3EFiling%20Cabinets%20And%20Carts%3C/a%3E&#160;&#183;%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.houzz.com/photos/task-chairs%22%3ETask%20Chairs%3C/a%3E&#160;&#183;%20%3C/div%3E%3C/div%3E%3C/div%3E%3C/div%3E">September Gardening Checklist</a><br />
<br />
While selecting plants, don't forget about your Mother. Mother Nature that is! Companion planting is a great way to combine various species for optimal garden health. This chart demystifies this time tested method of gardening....just match what you wish to plant with what is grows best with, plant them next to each other in the garden, and enjoy!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0phoE0zPhEqJFxAmCYnY81wFFPc3WJW1ubOhG1_95kGyxELsm_KAnuRTH2LyVSLITT3iX6sxpVV0cGLXv3xTbH0ZbMo56WqZKViuE82Hb9rc2XwHHElR_yRWrOTvfekN38uRfoI0dfuJh/s1600/532745_421511777871629_1087361930_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0phoE0zPhEqJFxAmCYnY81wFFPc3WJW1ubOhG1_95kGyxELsm_KAnuRTH2LyVSLITT3iX6sxpVV0cGLXv3xTbH0ZbMo56WqZKViuE82Hb9rc2XwHHElR_yRWrOTvfekN38uRfoI0dfuJh/s640/532745_421511777871629_1087361930_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A guide to "Facebook" for plants. Follow this chart for a healthier and stronger garden.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-5226351213043339702012-03-15T06:14:00.000-07:002012-03-15T06:14:46.880-07:00I'd like to introduce the gorgeous Chasmanthe!Hello Friends,<br />
<br />
In gardens tucked away all over town, there is a glorious bloom occuring. Upon first glance, it is a cluster of fan shaped, brilliant green foliage that resembles bearded iris in form and vigor. Held atop this foliage are warm jewel colored flowers, in shades of red-orange to yellow. This gorgeous display is of the elegant<i> </i>yet informal<i> Chasmanthe, </i>or Cobra Lily. <br />
<br />
<i>Chasmanthe</i> is a genus of plants that bloom in the early spring to summer. Originally from South Africa, they are well adapted to the climate here in Southern California and naturalize in gardens quite easily. Each year the display increases as this plant stretches its legs and its clump increases. The following photos were recently taken in Ojai, CA where this beauty soaks up the early spring sun. I especially love how the foliage catches the afternoon light. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKTyYfC6p_xtao0E8ZkhX_gY4LVhUCwOWRH8r2QAlP_bE1uAUC35faqL3LJ_Fewfas6WJalaetpoYdcZtMXIcRk3IqPq-zRA2CF5w0xyOlShSVaFW86puYtyLyqShSyiPCSZwL6Y7PLOH1/s1600/IMG_4600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKTyYfC6p_xtao0E8ZkhX_gY4LVhUCwOWRH8r2QAlP_bE1uAUC35faqL3LJ_Fewfas6WJalaetpoYdcZtMXIcRk3IqPq-zRA2CF5w0xyOlShSVaFW86puYtyLyqShSyiPCSZwL6Y7PLOH1/s640/IMG_4600.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This yellow really cheers up the garden!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlKObX9D6JlQarzQwmRevf51VMHDMCuXe22iAhqgJTBnDTPVHFV6IeQjcEv9ZXDKEbbWP0u1o_0zgUMi8r3-Vf3e-gd_5tp6KtyThI3E9hCLi5xXT2E9BfN-iVmD8MU3KGQOjdqMIsKF_/s1600/IMG_4603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlKObX9D6JlQarzQwmRevf51VMHDMCuXe22iAhqgJTBnDTPVHFV6IeQjcEv9ZXDKEbbWP0u1o_0zgUMi8r3-Vf3e-gd_5tp6KtyThI3E9hCLi5xXT2E9BfN-iVmD8MU3KGQOjdqMIsKF_/s640/IMG_4603.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here you can see how the plant clumps and spreads. Great for naturalizing!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvX7GvYqGP_o08WBYwYkTU_5W0sQ9wIDfSpLpCjRtVtIZQM_2i-nX6xesoIw5dp8XPHaGCXD5TexSCNled56O6wV7pzyKACKSQYbkJODeDY0ss8zsma8i8Lg6xAoXBJS3MAb62xlsMHDhj/s1600/IMG_4605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvX7GvYqGP_o08WBYwYkTU_5W0sQ9wIDfSpLpCjRtVtIZQM_2i-nX6xesoIw5dp8XPHaGCXD5TexSCNled56O6wV7pzyKACKSQYbkJODeDY0ss8zsma8i8Lg6xAoXBJS3MAb62xlsMHDhj/s640/IMG_4605.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here you can see how it gets its name, Cobra Lily. Those arching flowers are getting ready to strike!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGDtZNffNK1INymUZH1ORMVu8xMmS5MGLmDQ5_91Hh2_6QoKLNYT1IanHq27k3O82iVvSdo5PX_cP9ZcxpF2ij6BrA1fdOGYW50SerS4dQbm3tI1ThA0Y3TSDYBCbeb9AlyniuxN6TTtYK/s1600/IMG_4607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGDtZNffNK1INymUZH1ORMVu8xMmS5MGLmDQ5_91Hh2_6QoKLNYT1IanHq27k3O82iVvSdo5PX_cP9ZcxpF2ij6BrA1fdOGYW50SerS4dQbm3tI1ThA0Y3TSDYBCbeb9AlyniuxN6TTtYK/s640/IMG_4607.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What could be better than this? Afternoon light streaming through the gorgeous apple green foliage.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiL2VkLtFfGMYe98uwtcZLkrc9ok-8v2E-Fy-KLoXWnvwHfmps9Oy10Xh1T2Pg11c9QEKa9K2EFa2Z0sHzY1hVhiR6iz3r_eXFONQW0-9uJR9m1HQfVmkzKQME84zIFVKi5Ojn__cYmeK1/s1600/IMG_4609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiL2VkLtFfGMYe98uwtcZLkrc9ok-8v2E-Fy-KLoXWnvwHfmps9Oy10Xh1T2Pg11c9QEKa9K2EFa2Z0sHzY1hVhiR6iz3r_eXFONQW0-9uJR9m1HQfVmkzKQME84zIFVKi5Ojn__cYmeK1/s640/IMG_4609.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cobra Lily nestled into a low water situation...feels right at home. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJWdu9h1dAyHXgvLltscRJ7XzqVhLLveXy5AMRflfKxWuKrNlHwF7JxmJg1W6IU2LR63uxuJdd9KK03Ap68YufjgzAZP9ly5xWP1zohSsjDIlD30XfaUDSaFfWcd0Shaim6jckthJUMf-/s1600/photo-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJWdu9h1dAyHXgvLltscRJ7XzqVhLLveXy5AMRflfKxWuKrNlHwF7JxmJg1W6IU2LR63uxuJdd9KK03Ap68YufjgzAZP9ly5xWP1zohSsjDIlD30XfaUDSaFfWcd0Shaim6jckthJUMf-/s640/photo-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This pic was sent to me after I took the others....see the progression of the flower...Gorgeous!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-86578142943601967602012-01-26T06:42:00.000-08:002012-01-26T06:42:42.718-08:006-Week Garden Plan: prep for spring!<div class="MsoNormal"> <style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-parent:"";
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:10.0pt;
margin-left:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraph, li.MsoListParagraph, div.MsoListParagraph
{margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:10.0pt;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst
{mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
{mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast
{mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:10.0pt;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page Section1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.Section1
{page:Section1;}
/* List Definitions */
@list l0
{mso-list-id:1813669299;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:-743939062 67698703 67698689 67698715 67698703 67698713 67698715 67698703 67698713 67698715;}
@list l0:level1
{mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level2
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:Symbol;}
ol
{margin-bottom:0in;}
ul
{margin-bottom:0in;}
--
</style>Hi Friends,
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Okay, its time! Lets get out in the garden and take some
action.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It may seem early to work
the garden for those Tomatomania tomatoes, but now is actually the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">best</i> time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also easier than you think and if you start now you’ll
see how easy it is to have amazing soil for spring and summer plantings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trust me…your tomato plants will thank
you and reward you with lots of scrumptious fruits all season long (Yes, a
tomato is a fruit).</div><div class="MsoNormal">6 Week Garden Plan:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>prep for spring!</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Plan your garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>This is important for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">multiple</i> reasons:</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Zero in on where to concentrate your soil
building efforts.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Crop Rotation:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>gotta do it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Growing the same crop in the same place every year is a no-no.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(…hello diseases and pests!)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’ve been growing your tomatoes in
the same place, then its time to move them to another plot (or
container!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Follow this guide to
easy crop rotation: <a href="http://www.dannylipford.com/vegetable-garden-crop-rotation-made-easy/">click here</a>.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Start a compost pile…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">in</i> your garden plot! </b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Time tested and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">easy. </i>Take those kitchen scraps from dinner (veggies, paper,
breads, peels, egg shells) and bury them directly in the garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dig a small hole and put in those
veggie and paper scraps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do this
all around the garden and come spring, you’ll have worms galore!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bale of straw…use as mulch and it will feed
your soil.</b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Hit up your local feed supply store and pick up
a bale of hay!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sound funny?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">It
works</i>!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Break apart the bale
and spread it around the garden as a mulch at least a few inches thick (2” to
6”).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will trap moisture and
feed the beneficials living in the soil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(Make sure you buy a bale that is weed seed free).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use all season long…the more it breaks
down the better!</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Add worms.</b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Worms are the true champions of a healthy
garden. Buy them online or independent nurseries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sprinkle around in your hay mulched garden…BAM!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Magic.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Apply a layer of Malibu Compost.</b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Biodynamics is a fancy word for “Really Awesome
Compost.” Support local with a purchase of <a href="http://malibucompost.com/">Malibu Compost</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apply in a ½” to 1” layer all around
planting areas as a top dressing.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Make compost tea and apply.</b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Easy and effective: buy ready made tea bags from
<a href="http://malibucompost.com/">Malibu Compost</a> (instructions included) or use your own compost to make a
solution of magic elixer for the soil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Check out the book <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Teaming With
Microbes, A Gardener’s Guide to the Soil Food Web</i>, by Jeff Lowenfels &
Wayne Lewis for details.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Compost tea infuses the beneficial microorganisms into our soil at a concentrated level...it is soils version of eating yogurt. Lots of good guys create a better environment for roots.</span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 1in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span>
</span></div>Happy Gardening!
Stephen.
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnnTkZbNTgnNXnPqm9oUNrOviOkPCf3Vs73x1fEwiOyIPVFz13kePZPQX21-b-93IqfOMPf83vpeEdV_tb29lGG9MPa2ywejvCt9polLUflIAXeF0S_hIWrBtoXZN3NGZFcl749rXgbupD/s1600/IMG_4543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnnTkZbNTgnNXnPqm9oUNrOviOkPCf3Vs73x1fEwiOyIPVFz13kePZPQX21-b-93IqfOMPf83vpeEdV_tb29lGG9MPa2ywejvCt9polLUflIAXeF0S_hIWrBtoXZN3NGZFcl749rXgbupD/s400/IMG_4543.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seedlings in the greenhouse...spring is coming. Let's get out there and start prepping our soil!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-23455320264373049842012-01-18T19:22:00.000-08:002012-01-18T19:22:48.765-08:00Soil 103: Starting a new garden & Adding to an existing one.Hello Friends,<br />
<br />
Okay, so we talked about what we should be adding to the soil to get it ready for planting, right? So the question I get asked most often is "I have a new garden (or have never gardened before), what should I do to get it ready?" Well, that is easy, just follow these steps:<br />
<ol><li>Check out the soil where you wish to plant...what does it tell you? Dry, hard, weedy, desolate? What color is it? Fluffy and dark is the best, this allows for good drainage and healthy roots...does your soil match up? 99% of the time, it needs help, so keep reading.</li>
<li>Remove debris such as rocks and weeds, then lightly rake area to rough up the surface.</li>
<li>Amend! Refer to the previous blog on types of amendments, but to keep it simple, make sure to add enough bagged amend to cover the area with 2" to 3" of the good stuff. Go thick with the potting soil/planter mix...More is better here. Go more sparingly with the manure/worm castings/compost, as it is more potent. This technique is called <b>top-dressing</b> and it is the best way to add new soil without breaking your back. Just open the bag(s) and spread out with a rake. No need to incorporate or dig in, just layer it on top. Also, if you have clay, then you should add gypsum. This naturally occurring mineral will break up those hard to dig clay soils and let the good stuff in. </li>
<li>Water thoroughly....this will encourage the new soil to percolate with the existing soil. Also, moisture will get the worms in the original soil to come visit the new stuff and that is KEY! You could also add worms available online or at your local nursery. The worms (and other little guys) do the work for us. They mix and blend the top-dressed area with the existing soil and with time, the soil becomes one. How cool is that!! The sooner you amend the sooner the worms can get started, so get in the garden now for spring planting. Never too early to amend!</li>
</ol><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenJ4wO8xiypgeMdQxgN-69Rf2oVc57ESUk16YYn9YxQORI4I3ORL0RxhPms5Sehuno-aAi361IwFZu6r-8rWwBtO866HaZeYRUS-5eRQv3FJSHYOUlpTaxVDrbPvYlaosFzgfmMtNhisL/s1600/100_1247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenJ4wO8xiypgeMdQxgN-69Rf2oVc57ESUk16YYn9YxQORI4I3ORL0RxhPms5Sehuno-aAi361IwFZu6r-8rWwBtO866HaZeYRUS-5eRQv3FJSHYOUlpTaxVDrbPvYlaosFzgfmMtNhisL/s320/100_1247.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This new raised veggie garden is filled with a combination of potting soil + planter mix + and compost. In raised beds, it is important to add new soil with each planting, as the level of the soil will drop each season. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Already have a garden, and just want to make it better? Usually with an established garden, amendments have been added over the years. This is great, but it can always be better. Follow this formula for success:<br />
<ol><li> Get a good quality Planter Mix and spread around garden to around 1" thick.</li>
<li>Add compost (my favorite is Malibu Compost) in a layer over the planting area. Put enough to cover the area by around 1/4" to 1/2" inch. </li>
<li>Water thoroughly, and watch your plants smile!</li>
</ol>All in all, keep in mind that you want to add lots of good stuff, but leave the work to Mother Nature to do the mixing and integrating. Sure, you could take the time to mix it in, with shovel and spade, but in most cases, it is completely unnecessary. Add worms if you don't feel like you have them already and remember to amend with every planting and/or beginning of each season. Do this and you be the envy of the neighborhood with your "black gold". <br />
<br />
Next week will will explore the 6-week plan for getting your garden ready for Tomatomania Tomato Season! <br />
<br />
Happy Gardening,<br />
Stephen.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KXLaKw0hxujev66XYi8Uz9eoH3evDoHuaegpA0POQP-B5dQ7SZktInVY5lywHTeplwyCjdkBhiO6bK_gqGXShorz3SctIOPUtHAuGbkyWoG8EeMWZPDyDKag4hGWbq-e1b9NHWLg9TKJ/s1600/Me+in+Garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KXLaKw0hxujev66XYi8Uz9eoH3evDoHuaegpA0POQP-B5dQ7SZktInVY5lywHTeplwyCjdkBhiO6bK_gqGXShorz3SctIOPUtHAuGbkyWoG8EeMWZPDyDKag4hGWbq-e1b9NHWLg9TKJ/s640/Me+in+Garden.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A good gardener checks their soil to see what it needs. A great garden is only as good as it's soil!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-22647250678077426952012-01-11T18:21:00.000-08:002012-01-11T18:21:51.899-08:00It's All About the Amendments!<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Courier New";
panose-1:2 7 3 9 2 2 5 2 4 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Wingdings;
panose-1:5 2 1 2 1 8 4 8 7 8;
mso-font-charset:2;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 0 65536 0 -2147483648 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"American Typewriter";
panose-1:2 9 6 4 2 0 4 2 3 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-parent:"";
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:10.0pt;
margin-left:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraph, li.MsoListParagraph, div.MsoListParagraph
{margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:10.0pt;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst
{mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
{mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast
{mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:10.0pt;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page Section1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.Section1
{page:Section1;}
/* List Definitions */
@list l0
{mso-list-id:278270112;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:-556137006 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693;}
@list l0:level1
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:Symbol;}
@list l1
{mso-list-id:1459951853;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:-652200950 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693;}
@list l1:level1
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:Symbol;}
ol
{margin-bottom:0in;}
ul
{margin-bottom:0in;}
-->
</style> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: x-large;">SOIL 102:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter"; font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">So, to sum up last week…. soil is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">ALIVE</b>! It is an <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">ECOSYSTEM</b> that needs the proper care to ensure your plants get the most out of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This means LOTS of organic <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">AMEND</b> and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">NO</b> chemicals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since we are nurturing a soil food web, we will need to ensure proper aeration and drainage along with a proper balance of nutrients for your plants (… and Tomatomania Tomatoes of course!) to thrive.</div><div class="MsoNormal">To do this, our job is to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">AMEND.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is important to do this each time you plant and at the very least, once a year. The amendments listed below are available at your independent local nursery, come in bags, and will not only add the beneficial microorganisms we want for our ecosystem, but will feed the ones we already have!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How cool is that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think of amend for soil like yogurt for humans…full of living goodness that keeps things in balance. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Preparation is key!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Adding amendment to your garden now, will allow for the soil to improve in time for spring planting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, most of us wait till we have the plants to add good amendments, but a little advanced planning and amending goes a long way!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why not go to the nursery this weekend and start feeding that SOIL!</div><div class="MsoNormal">Choose from the list below and remember to read the label to ensure proper proportions:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Organic Soil Amendments:</b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Compost.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Purchase at your favorite garden center or make your own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Either way it is a great investment for the health of your soil. I use a product called Malibu Compost…best money can buy! Best for veggie gardens. A little goes a long way.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8qdahHwrQb923Iooc6z4C90D3oWYVRTvTZgllHOYio-NfS6gnQAE0XcnDVAPRP2WlkG8jkubbruipT-qwkBApd99iRsPbeb1-_iT8VbB_fad7XOcyKjhnaYJsDJ2HacIBAt315C1zpEv_/s1600/Malibu+Compost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8qdahHwrQb923Iooc6z4C90D3oWYVRTvTZgllHOYio-NfS6gnQAE0XcnDVAPRP2WlkG8jkubbruipT-qwkBApd99iRsPbeb1-_iT8VbB_fad7XOcyKjhnaYJsDJ2HacIBAt315C1zpEv_/s320/Malibu+Compost.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malibu Compost: don't start a garden without it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Worm Castings</b>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a little goes a long way when it comes to the nutrient rich natural product.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your plants will love you for it. Great for all garden plants.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Manures:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Composted cow or chicken manure is the age-old natural way to fertilize and energize your soil. Great for roses, lawns and landscape plants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use compost for veggies.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bone Meal:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>this natural source of nutrient is essential if you wish to prevent blossom end rot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just a heaping handful per plant will do in the hole when you plant. Great for all plants, but especially bulbs and container plants. </div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Blended Amendments:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>these will include peat, composted forest products, kelp, bat guano….the list goes on and on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These will come blended together. These say Potting Soil, Soil Amendment, Soil Booster, and Planting Mix on the label.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5hgpo_EJY3Xdk9FNqmFHgbCDSlkb6SfZvs76VHbXJLHcZMf5Y091OEKGHNOyeBGzMgLBTYUsGr5ujG_Gwc50MdVtHH90i-Iq3HcxyPrLnTYTcaSmJ4FkoKMbYMaSjW0Sae-ajmGcAQxDL/s1600/IMG_2420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5hgpo_EJY3Xdk9FNqmFHgbCDSlkb6SfZvs76VHbXJLHcZMf5Y091OEKGHNOyeBGzMgLBTYUsGr5ujG_Gwc50MdVtHH90i-Iq3HcxyPrLnTYTcaSmJ4FkoKMbYMaSjW0Sae-ajmGcAQxDL/s640/IMG_2420.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Native soil is lacking in organic material. This new garden has lots of compost and blended amendments added to boost the soil food web.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Once amended and planted, it is important to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">FERTILIZE</b> throughout the growing season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I advocate using a natural product, and will include more details in a future post.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is that EASY! You are now on your way to a healthy and happy soil food web that will give you that gorgeous, healthy landscape of plants and the best tasting veggies + tomatoes on the block!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHszwyCPza3fZldLBpEyzspFZq2XddBTGj1A1g3Oc-XhyphenhyphenzqORIsFtTKxErSiFY0LK_IuNiMl9ORD0emaLrBzTFZArQ1jdgZgPJSnQamGD1xOzyCq4R98aA6GJ04WF9fpWIF_77ZbT5DgN/s1600/IMG_0642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHszwyCPza3fZldLBpEyzspFZq2XddBTGj1A1g3Oc-XhyphenhyphenzqORIsFtTKxErSiFY0LK_IuNiMl9ORD0emaLrBzTFZArQ1jdgZgPJSnQamGD1xOzyCq4R98aA6GJ04WF9fpWIF_77ZbT5DgN/s640/IMG_0642.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt;"> </span>Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-79287177969045148402012-01-04T18:58:00.000-08:002012-01-04T18:58:12.625-08:00It's All About the SOIL.<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"American Typewriter";
panose-1:2 9 6 4 2 0 4 2 3 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-parent:"";
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:10.0pt;
margin-left:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page Section1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.Section1
{page:Section1;}
-->
</style> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "American Typewriter"; font-size: 16pt;">Soil 101:</span> Getting Started.</div><div class="MsoNormal">If you want to have healthy plants, then you need to have a healthy<span style="text-transform: uppercase;"> </span>soil. It all starts with the <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">soil</span>! You might think that you know what soil is, right? It’s that stuff that gets muddy when it rains, the kids like to play in and what the dog like to dig. Yeah, that stuff which we call dirt is a component of good soil, but to get it ready for veggies and flowers (and especially Tomatomania tomatoes!), we need to amend this definition…and the ‘dirt’ in which you plant. Like the old saying goes, you get <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">out</i> of it what you put<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> into </i>it! </div><div class="MsoNormal">So what do we ‘put’ into it? Good question, and one that we will explore in more detail next week. First, what I want you to do is to imagine soil at a basic level. In you mind’s eye, focus on a handful of soil, and imagine that you have microscopic vision and can really stare into it. What you would see is an entire ecosystem right before your eyes. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Volumes </i>have been written about the creatures great and small that inhabit this amazing microscopic world, but all we need to know for now is that to have good soil we need to treat it like an ecosystem. That simple. Soil is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">alive</i>, and balance is the key.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Good soil is a combination of dirt (clay, loam, sand), organic material (compost, manure), air spaces, water pores and lots + lots + lots of organisms (did I mention lots?). These organisms are the real unsung heroes of our time, doing the job of feeding our plants, and in turn feeding us. These are the bacterium, fungi, worms, nematodes, protozoa, algae… on and on, that consume the organic material (even each other) then excrete out the stuff of dreams (okay, maybe only of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">my</i> dreams)… Fertilizer! All natural, organic and uncensored, this is the stuff that makes plants zoom! Delicious Tomatomania tomatoes, sweet carrots, perfect Zinnias; these are all byproducts of a healthy soil food ecosystem. </div><div class="MsoNormal">So in a nutshell (yes, even nut shells are good compost!) Healthy Soil + Healthy Microorganisms = Healthy plants. Plain and simple. Feed your soil ecosystem and you feed your desire for luscious, homegrown produce and flowers. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Stay tuned next week as we explore amendments and the formula for soil success!</div><div class="MsoNormal">Thanks for reading and happy gardening!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-12Uykvy3JY0/TwUM4s-iJ_I/AAAAAAAAAH8/CPMhKyV81_s/s1600/IMG_3783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-12Uykvy3JY0/TwUM4s-iJ_I/AAAAAAAAAH8/CPMhKyV81_s/s640/IMG_3783.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Healthy, happy veggies are possible organically, with healthy happy soil. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bmQEZvgVcOw/TwUNCUwyJMI/AAAAAAAAAIE/PBf0VOt7awQ/s1600/farm_DSC_0424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bmQEZvgVcOw/TwUNCUwyJMI/AAAAAAAAAIE/PBf0VOt7awQ/s640/farm_DSC_0424.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Springs plants are now being started...time to prepare your soil now to be ready for spring!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
</div>Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-87968624804020557972011-11-30T18:57:00.000-08:002011-11-30T18:57:31.888-08:00End of Season Harvest!Hello Friends!<br />
<br />
There is nothing better than home grown produce. I was with a friend recently, whom I installed a garden for. It was time to take out the summer veggies and put in the winter crops. The result was a bounty of beauty and flavor. I took a few snapshots and wanted to share. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZc1RSwQDlZ7IDxRQq_4G3yoSWAAWsbgEu246bt6VUokCQxsU5HbeduohmWvy0Zqb_Cg4UMClLcyIcckE6BRPxPSrvZ9xkit_PD-6R1_TOkoGCYRyukUf8DgUyHYHf2jSEHorxH_57iNh/s1600/IMG_4311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZc1RSwQDlZ7IDxRQq_4G3yoSWAAWsbgEu246bt6VUokCQxsU5HbeduohmWvy0Zqb_Cg4UMClLcyIcckE6BRPxPSrvZ9xkit_PD-6R1_TOkoGCYRyukUf8DgUyHYHf2jSEHorxH_57iNh/s640/IMG_4311.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squash blossoms + Frisee = Homemade Pizza to die for!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8o7Xcob39ogmObbKgjhmCMrPefrg1VG1AlkyV-sEpCnWuOz_sbyChUly86g0MWxWbGE6Cci_pNodQaD_chBbICqkP_D7l-j36s3tqrDpuoyu39ZHGtmT4fdrF59KjCE_F0m1v9bWuQPk_/s1600/IMG_4310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8o7Xcob39ogmObbKgjhmCMrPefrg1VG1AlkyV-sEpCnWuOz_sbyChUly86g0MWxWbGE6Cci_pNodQaD_chBbICqkP_D7l-j36s3tqrDpuoyu39ZHGtmT4fdrF59KjCE_F0m1v9bWuQPk_/s640/IMG_4310.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful and Tasty!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVDxcxr_N5TSS37VUSbFtP70PiGd4jhCB1RuM6VSNcV-MackTfSkQ-35ZUK4AhAwym1s_G521Uf6lPnFtt8Hd30P3aHPhh-5rsB2QGRkx1xv0H0TkzSMNiQmx_-pF7IJFHB0jzIlJOTi0/s1600/IMG_4309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVDxcxr_N5TSS37VUSbFtP70PiGd4jhCB1RuM6VSNcV-MackTfSkQ-35ZUK4AhAwym1s_G521Uf6lPnFtt8Hd30P3aHPhh-5rsB2QGRkx1xv0H0TkzSMNiQmx_-pF7IJFHB0jzIlJOTi0/s640/IMG_4309.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-42432299248468579502011-10-06T06:32:00.000-07:002011-10-06T06:32:01.265-07:00Descanso Gardens.Hi Friends!<br />
<br />
Want to enjoy a world class garden filled with lots of interesting plant collections and set in the gorgeous California Oak woodland...well, if you are in the Los Angeles area then I would say head on over to <a href="http://www.descansogardens.org/index.php">Descanso Gardens</a> in La Cañada Flintridge. The area is rich in history and beauty and set in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. It is a mix of old and modern with a collection of Camellia, Roses, California Natives, Water gardens, and formal Gardens, the list goes on and on. Click on the Descanso Gardens link above for more information.<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoy these pics. It was a sunny and gorgeous fall day! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYtMqrDMtUw0IPgkFsFv2gJ2vmC_sIbsTBT4Ptv7sFxE0uyfxkosJ70BgQmlB8oPrpUJsl62bzewkbPkXFSD7nAq-0nhl0zQDTNAqy4tHXJUYa25PNSNqSpXF6v13uvKGTGqgXzOMR0KJ/s1600/IMG_4020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYtMqrDMtUw0IPgkFsFv2gJ2vmC_sIbsTBT4Ptv7sFxE0uyfxkosJ70BgQmlB8oPrpUJsl62bzewkbPkXFSD7nAq-0nhl0zQDTNAqy4tHXJUYa25PNSNqSpXF6v13uvKGTGqgXzOMR0KJ/s400/IMG_4020.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Gallardia</i> greatness.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholVtokvZkIbvdNJeyyMjFlwFcSwtlrWN3XL63g1ggE9fRWXMQdpeULHGXnqOeEnq7jU4udJcII1TEZ5hu2-hjAPWjKO2r1Z41kKG1jKBzd2fEEVdkkrtv1gXxnSyZu15Gbl0NB0wnfpZN/s1600/IMG_4024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholVtokvZkIbvdNJeyyMjFlwFcSwtlrWN3XL63g1ggE9fRWXMQdpeULHGXnqOeEnq7jU4udJcII1TEZ5hu2-hjAPWjKO2r1Z41kKG1jKBzd2fEEVdkkrtv1gXxnSyZu15Gbl0NB0wnfpZN/s640/IMG_4024.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Dahlia </i>dreams.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKQicrniPWRH8OHWiDIFzTjXy447oXApF16EHjRvSwEcedYoJzHlDXt3Z2hikAm7RvxbLPBg46a9CtEMjfadB-hIOlfrlvw-XFn05EXqj4dtZTjdrS9p1KMaa6ig_pM1T-BP1U7AMsIpX/s1600/IMG_4027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKQicrniPWRH8OHWiDIFzTjXy447oXApF16EHjRvSwEcedYoJzHlDXt3Z2hikAm7RvxbLPBg46a9CtEMjfadB-hIOlfrlvw-XFn05EXqj4dtZTjdrS9p1KMaa6ig_pM1T-BP1U7AMsIpX/s640/IMG_4027.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the spot where the <i>Dahlia and Gallardia</i> were spotted. Not too far from this lawn is the Kid's Train Depot, where kids can ride a mini steam engine around a mini track. Fun fun fun.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigcXQqVl3nn0BbaeYNGdjBW5WZONzB1nneWLlLASGZ88Pz5uFcxcwuj5EssjJCZJBLHLiqQ1axl6CN3GhVsqR4av6iVssQPN1DJMTJmjXcNgBxQ7GVbP8UhmA2VGMcJDq58e9WsNDAba-S/s1600/IMG_4034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigcXQqVl3nn0BbaeYNGdjBW5WZONzB1nneWLlLASGZ88Pz5uFcxcwuj5EssjJCZJBLHLiqQ1axl6CN3GhVsqR4av6iVssQPN1DJMTJmjXcNgBxQ7GVbP8UhmA2VGMcJDq58e9WsNDAba-S/s640/IMG_4034.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Anemone</i> ambition. LOVE these.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtkvvpsmVjSgCBg296TWq8Ne3UI0C223KFPNd_OjSFsT1277snNDVUM4LPE0_WQQycmfo1L8NLUca3R-mpuutUTfQuN2jKUqIsXG5VEPvO7PKfC_kflxVHjYzPPM6vkpSXH1VwHYd8eFG/s1600/IMG_4040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtkvvpsmVjSgCBg296TWq8Ne3UI0C223KFPNd_OjSFsT1277snNDVUM4LPE0_WQQycmfo1L8NLUca3R-mpuutUTfQuN2jKUqIsXG5VEPvO7PKfC_kflxVHjYzPPM6vkpSXH1VwHYd8eFG/s640/IMG_4040.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was one of four arches that were all draped in vine cover. This is located smack dab in the middle of the rustic formal rose garden. Great place to sit and soak it all in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XtA7Cn3lxv0yXAJglOplLw_ndm1Iw5ZHBDJEqyM84dANvUR3lD9yAvxmnjUA6M61xoexLY_pegQkJdhrQ4ZDWZmHkhD5Cvcu0WZrC5AEm6KtQW5VZxfIhhlItO0x0KtCNF9-qlRiIPE7/s1600/IMG_4044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XtA7Cn3lxv0yXAJglOplLw_ndm1Iw5ZHBDJEqyM84dANvUR3lD9yAvxmnjUA6M61xoexLY_pegQkJdhrQ4ZDWZmHkhD5Cvcu0WZrC5AEm6KtQW5VZxfIhhlItO0x0KtCNF9-qlRiIPE7/s400/IMG_4044.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I snapped about 10 photos of the hop vine covered trellis. Hops are used to make beer and have a fun latin name: <i>Humulus lupulus</i>. Love it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtpnOZq-pAtDGLTGNEvGB6nCZ9UxGkptRHqRsK2CtdyxM1Uzs88gEAHBWn4k63oHShG7mCeiernfaU6vgvXcT7bE5embvK5PIfl0U9Y4XaJApx3CCadwer1O9bV_u1fJ8MdCR8xDmPQZF/s1600/IMG_4052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtpnOZq-pAtDGLTGNEvGB6nCZ9UxGkptRHqRsK2CtdyxM1Uzs88gEAHBWn4k63oHShG7mCeiernfaU6vgvXcT7bE5embvK5PIfl0U9Y4XaJApx3CCadwer1O9bV_u1fJ8MdCR8xDmPQZF/s640/IMG_4052.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Brazilian Verbena, <i>Verbena bonarienis</i>, is a natural in any garden. It adds a light and airy feel while inserting color and movement. Butterflies cannot resist!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2aeKwy6DyrMwQALRoWiCLh3vhUDWAl3kGZodLz0qXMhGaFnWHAul3CixIWNLoSj6GAdTnw1gJMOU0pymC3bv0YlX4FJ9a6avteRd8FN8SSFGoBlWCZOZxTvbDFtaZvb-yrHAxtKZQLktq/s1600/IMG_4054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2aeKwy6DyrMwQALRoWiCLh3vhUDWAl3kGZodLz0qXMhGaFnWHAul3CixIWNLoSj6GAdTnw1gJMOU0pymC3bv0YlX4FJ9a6avteRd8FN8SSFGoBlWCZOZxTvbDFtaZvb-yrHAxtKZQLktq/s400/IMG_4054.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose arbor or adult jungle gym?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBzi2Ulb9KBlikGE_1ZulyPiXAMuGQw8AdNjkZwMPuPBcSntXeRXlRwxCrhO8UVswCePT78fxh51oZLMXrQIVH40NFEe1hHxh6tGfxVzX8y18thG0emLObu4I_1VKYP0gwe_Iwi3yWBJW/s1600/IMG_4058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBzi2Ulb9KBlikGE_1ZulyPiXAMuGQw8AdNjkZwMPuPBcSntXeRXlRwxCrhO8UVswCePT78fxh51oZLMXrQIVH40NFEe1hHxh6tGfxVzX8y18thG0emLObu4I_1VKYP0gwe_Iwi3yWBJW/s400/IMG_4058.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Formal gardens adjacent to the rose garden.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD1XyU75fllKatz0zTQkO6fe9vuDNTfeC37Z5UmpWyNIEGT1qilXn1p0wHb_ASU281yD2yCWSMthxe6BXQM0p6et-FuF5DJyvOf4RX10jk4_-73ADy5uoFYge7Vtm8KtbEICY44b5hDfYW/s1600/IMG_4074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD1XyU75fllKatz0zTQkO6fe9vuDNTfeC37Z5UmpWyNIEGT1qilXn1p0wHb_ASU281yD2yCWSMthxe6BXQM0p6et-FuF5DJyvOf4RX10jk4_-73ADy5uoFYge7Vtm8KtbEICY44b5hDfYW/s640/IMG_4074.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modern and awesome. Living wall in the newly installed Boddy House garden.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXeTrkoFPHR2QeQ-niJQFI54jHeIBkpmueIWJgFBwMFBEUH9xyknQyErqPf2HTRYawURCUgNa0l7OVFMWvYIoNUwhG05QqbwRFF3g56y6R-bhVrpx_t0b6hu-7HITLBfqKnFRvqhTLpqN6/s1600/IMG_4086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXeTrkoFPHR2QeQ-niJQFI54jHeIBkpmueIWJgFBwMFBEUH9xyknQyErqPf2HTRYawURCUgNa0l7OVFMWvYIoNUwhG05QqbwRFF3g56y6R-bhVrpx_t0b6hu-7HITLBfqKnFRvqhTLpqN6/s400/IMG_4086.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Agave</i> admiration.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUv5TkGPEnmEnkmI6UMxFnaFyWcWxT52Uzs0LT6fsEL2fcRJRM7ZaZiNBmh8AkaAkVz5li8OIuJaSwmdkRLKPBbfrFgWvLfCmV1iPYmYISUDFhbtJP1tIcnLlI8PC7BynU6CCameo-j-jK/s1600/IMG_4091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUv5TkGPEnmEnkmI6UMxFnaFyWcWxT52Uzs0LT6fsEL2fcRJRM7ZaZiNBmh8AkaAkVz5li8OIuJaSwmdkRLKPBbfrFgWvLfCmV1iPYmYISUDFhbtJP1tIcnLlI8PC7BynU6CCameo-j-jK/s640/IMG_4091.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pond near the entrance. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB5fI9MzccoA55bxXkZdyoUDSuvGK1qZG4ajpmX7lPxNolSj9LM9tCN3ggg80QPJKKM_e9KwwKrLviBJl9pOtLw9FdsrOWPW0Z38DRn3X5MKCQBIu2G_d8MaDG9zO4wp4PpUx6tPwi_bft/s1600/IMG_4097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB5fI9MzccoA55bxXkZdyoUDSuvGK1qZG4ajpmX7lPxNolSj9LM9tCN3ggg80QPJKKM_e9KwwKrLviBJl9pOtLw9FdsrOWPW0Z38DRn3X5MKCQBIu2G_d8MaDG9zO4wp4PpUx6tPwi_bft/s640/IMG_4097.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adjacent to the cafe. I am a sucker for water gardens and especially fish. Love it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-69818430909479722422011-09-10T08:03:00.000-07:002011-09-10T08:03:45.310-07:00Fire Mountain Farm Stand.Hello Friends!<br />
<br />
I recently took my annual trip up to Northern California to the absolutely gorgeous and quaint town of Murphys, CA. You are probably wondering....Murphys??... where the heck is that? Well, you are not alone. I have been going to visit now for the past several summers and only know about it because good friends who call this gem of a place, home. I think that it is one of California's best kept secrets! It is full of history, good food, locally owned artisanal shops and restaurants... and best of all, fresh veggies and wine!<br />
<br />
Murphys is located about 1.5 hours East from the state's capital Sacramento, CA. It is nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills along with beautiful forests, streams and lakes. It is on the doorstep of Big Trees State Park, where some of the world's largest trees call home. The Giant Sequoia is a sight to behold!<br />
<br />
While in Murphys, I got to play, eat and sleep at a place called Fire Moutain. It is a wonderful property with a homespun garden that is brimming over with organic fruits and veggies. Every year for the summer season, the garden opens it's gates for Fire Mountain Farm Stand. Not only is there amazing produce for all, but Shonna (who calls the farm home) bakes the most wonderful muffins, foccacia and delectibles! Yum.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfI8h5IeqyKFTHUgLitUhI52elCtk9Ryxllox-rCXroucZyAKQBaxzVli4ATz_90KRLtVqgLxmwrlUbwwC9gq6N330c7cmVgE_jLEDun42SSUYUgIh4j_779FwykAILFvhbNqMYi83MZLE/s1600/IMG_3832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfI8h5IeqyKFTHUgLitUhI52elCtk9Ryxllox-rCXroucZyAKQBaxzVli4ATz_90KRLtVqgLxmwrlUbwwC9gq6N330c7cmVgE_jLEDun42SSUYUgIh4j_779FwykAILFvhbNqMYi83MZLE/s640/IMG_3832.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Let me tour you around the farm through my lens. I was lucky enough to be escorted by the farms most exhuberant resident, Aurora. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Mcpk1RVxzY9MHO14xybxQfD2ZjdvbcWKTCEcjMTlD6TZWZMg979Zlo7iZ2iHnLXo1hYeybm4rOISaG-C961kNXwZ04y5Gak7Rq11wdaPTUKL-HC9Clal04frppJYErbctTzJOcfVhdyu/s1600/IMG_3837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Mcpk1RVxzY9MHO14xybxQfD2ZjdvbcWKTCEcjMTlD6TZWZMg979Zlo7iZ2iHnLXo1hYeybm4rOISaG-C961kNXwZ04y5Gak7Rq11wdaPTUKL-HC9Clal04frppJYErbctTzJOcfVhdyu/s400/IMG_3837.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meet the Locals! Aurora was kind and informative...I learned that mommy likes pink flowers.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX6mnTzF3Ut_cek-1VXQy8Dv-XLRJ9Xn1h0pi0zs3H9rK6e6bti6v2MnXRlOWC5El8ztcpbLBUG3nOE0saGWv6GKBn0CEH_rqZDsVu9hQG0XB3PKR4nk2-DIRi0e6cC8VXqfoTsipaY3bu/s1600/IMG_3845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX6mnTzF3Ut_cek-1VXQy8Dv-XLRJ9Xn1h0pi0zs3H9rK6e6bti6v2MnXRlOWC5El8ztcpbLBUG3nOE0saGWv6GKBn0CEH_rqZDsVu9hQG0XB3PKR4nk2-DIRi0e6cC8VXqfoTsipaY3bu/s640/IMG_3845.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomatoes, canned peppers, melons, squash....the list goes on and on. All delicious all local.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-m9lYW2oFKyyWUfNJfS9D8FESGfaO4YJx2oZVnlyYnp1_ooo7EMINCRPnpx4jdvChJWdU9Mj9svkHm5129Zk-yD5CfMkrVo8IIChS-inaKQ-qkcM6McNcspIgMWH4COfj6lWstJ4z95hg/s1600/IMG_3849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-m9lYW2oFKyyWUfNJfS9D8FESGfaO4YJx2oZVnlyYnp1_ooo7EMINCRPnpx4jdvChJWdU9Mj9svkHm5129Zk-yD5CfMkrVo8IIChS-inaKQ-qkcM6McNcspIgMWH4COfj6lWstJ4z95hg/s640/IMG_3849.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For it's small size, this stand really packs a punch!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2hBqZ5OCiLKnYZSUJZe8GeZPH7lQvsaGhwVKrEvlXK40sGpqSb51HGmGeNSSKpgCQ3xDEVDuIyn2l9kX-57PJtw74BuD77-HcgOyn37t4if6QeAQkJuC9snkJhUj10mqT67506yylBkZ/s1600/IMG_3927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2hBqZ5OCiLKnYZSUJZe8GeZPH7lQvsaGhwVKrEvlXK40sGpqSb51HGmGeNSSKpgCQ3xDEVDuIyn2l9kX-57PJtw74BuD77-HcgOyn37t4if6QeAQkJuC9snkJhUj10mqT67506yylBkZ/s640/IMG_3927.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The garden in its late summer glory.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS5COhqYrKXBFEJ0KbapLuPE29JKaFyQBKuKbLJiuSstb0pgaIprSiGR_AUCN31-un2Fkyykw35oUW5IMQKs_Qy2S_hoyIXQMMGDqaKODeHbNGhA_ygG_Pa-m0acwlsYURhCfpbuJk-M9-/s1600/IMG_3931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS5COhqYrKXBFEJ0KbapLuPE29JKaFyQBKuKbLJiuSstb0pgaIprSiGR_AUCN31-un2Fkyykw35oUW5IMQKs_Qy2S_hoyIXQMMGDqaKODeHbNGhA_ygG_Pa-m0acwlsYURhCfpbuJk-M9-/s640/IMG_3931.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raised beds assist in keeping pests like gophers out of the mix. They also have the advantage of being free of the biggest challenge in this area: rocky soil. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRvGr1l0Vgry8_QuWiYIq814tMGfRdyVIIIEHUwiatMPJx1XLx2QIRUyjUhyuolcurDTYffbZ7QnnjEHI5DZxz_WrjOhOMFz1tFvvT5X3K9P91ewrgQwp4TFWTXLjYQ9vx46-7GwIaAwQ/s1600/IMG_3924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRvGr1l0Vgry8_QuWiYIq814tMGfRdyVIIIEHUwiatMPJx1XLx2QIRUyjUhyuolcurDTYffbZ7QnnjEHI5DZxz_WrjOhOMFz1tFvvT5X3K9P91ewrgQwp4TFWTXLjYQ9vx46-7GwIaAwQ/s640/IMG_3924.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another local resident. Organic gardens foster natural means of pest control.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxKjWsF7jYA-kKksfXlijqclGsY85e5qe3OTdSWg7AfpGYJIkSZZ157QmHdjBwW9uQ1uljFZIoZpDmjL4qBfbsCyOGPT-KbQJYWBRzHPnVFGaZP2hyphenhyphenBWuh_IUcmGthJfK-SNm2Xhyphenhyphen7cxa/s1600/IMG_3885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxKjWsF7jYA-kKksfXlijqclGsY85e5qe3OTdSWg7AfpGYJIkSZZ157QmHdjBwW9uQ1uljFZIoZpDmjL4qBfbsCyOGPT-KbQJYWBRzHPnVFGaZP2hyphenhyphenBWuh_IUcmGthJfK-SNm2Xhyphenhyphen7cxa/s640/IMG_3885.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natural form of pest control. Cats are important farm residents for several reasons. They help keep rodent populations in control as well greeting visitors with a leg rub.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKxTtn4VL9qN_BNZU905L2Ede3rda3zZad9LM_cWtWNENpPY9RSKWnZVqBXzL6fFX7egA-CgGZFcF8nnZpckqTtNuSuHxk8Bdv_dIFVBsHZ3Qbu5yttd6s6DxZy9Rx4Y8WV3c56TEbdFgx/s1600/IMG_3869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKxTtn4VL9qN_BNZU905L2Ede3rda3zZad9LM_cWtWNENpPY9RSKWnZVqBXzL6fFX7egA-CgGZFcF8nnZpckqTtNuSuHxk8Bdv_dIFVBsHZ3Qbu5yttd6s6DxZy9Rx4Y8WV3c56TEbdFgx/s640/IMG_3869.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My tour guide really loves what she does and it shows.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrgmh0LQ_fL5R2k1UqIlaGbUUbfxiFJZajeTq09DLVXmKyIhdrpvnWe3K40_zYgArXhimIh9CNMkpIF8Iqs3YmeSZ1XtVg8gkt9AhCzupSwaIUt5BxWJmadSR6mv7S3Th8ILZFW7-IU24j/s1600/IMG_3855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrgmh0LQ_fL5R2k1UqIlaGbUUbfxiFJZajeTq09DLVXmKyIhdrpvnWe3K40_zYgArXhimIh9CNMkpIF8Iqs3YmeSZ1XtVg8gkt9AhCzupSwaIUt5BxWJmadSR6mv7S3Th8ILZFW7-IU24j/s640/IMG_3855.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ladies of Fire Mountain Farm: chickens provide healthy and nutritious eggs in exchange for garden scraps. What a bargain!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgURp4sRYRhNTK0UCr2xwtljsxMGbYSF3wKs6qmfEoFOvxM3zdKkFsCLcL3YDGh2TcaZI4RyjVDM9x1M2Yxqdzp_nYzJ1TtU1otuIwpfFL7w5cz-clYX5JcD9cbtgWA16Ofz4hZ309PVhMt/s1600/IMG_3932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgURp4sRYRhNTK0UCr2xwtljsxMGbYSF3wKs6qmfEoFOvxM3zdKkFsCLcL3YDGh2TcaZI4RyjVDM9x1M2Yxqdzp_nYzJ1TtU1otuIwpfFL7w5cz-clYX5JcD9cbtgWA16Ofz4hZ309PVhMt/s640/IMG_3932.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow and Orange fleshed watermelons. Yum!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYyNsz7EnMme2rR6MYywqma6Ng1dHje-p6CZwQweC9sPUbrezrbfbxhkWtIJkTE_YAe9AF3BmpVB_lrfrY49C2HysUFb17FY9SsMV4sGPPoizUTXM-Du91wfU6U18AbVyqfE-8lDGIEG3/s1600/IMG_3934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYyNsz7EnMme2rR6MYywqma6Ng1dHje-p6CZwQweC9sPUbrezrbfbxhkWtIJkTE_YAe9AF3BmpVB_lrfrY49C2HysUFb17FY9SsMV4sGPPoizUTXM-Du91wfU6U18AbVyqfE-8lDGIEG3/s640/IMG_3934.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This squash benefits from the companion planting of Marigolds. Flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects that help keep the whole garden in balance.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-nB65Y_GWNt85Cyt6JhT0vJEami_xDfyedFHyqcobQtTthgACvVM2Oyvy8xsLQp2NW28Od1jWc4ZxTc352qabIz3g7-iEjSpzpAmmUJbEpe0NYUxMtu5_f7L7eowiCDOXg3ItscppBDR/s1600/IMG_3939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-nB65Y_GWNt85Cyt6JhT0vJEami_xDfyedFHyqcobQtTthgACvVM2Oyvy8xsLQp2NW28Od1jWc4ZxTc352qabIz3g7-iEjSpzpAmmUJbEpe0NYUxMtu5_f7L7eowiCDOXg3ItscppBDR/s640/IMG_3939.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A space this size feeds a family of 3 along with a weekly farm stand all summer! Very productive.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-61023241031321364562011-08-25T09:06:00.000-07:002011-08-25T09:06:48.087-07:00Winnetka Farms.Hello Friends,<br />
<br />
Yesterday I was invited to one of the most fabulous places I have been to in a long time...<a href="http://www.winnetkafarms.com/">Winnetka Farms</a>. Located in the very "settled" San Fernando Valley, Winnetka Farms is an urban homestead that has chickens, fruit trees, and lots of scrumptious Italian veggies. Craig and Gary have put lots of LOVE into their farm and it shows. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRW9a_3SAEt3ypDbqGnCPu7E__yTJtBJJy5ileFW3CgcDRinttLPuIG-afhCrM0kJJIOd5oeTDfPLaA3yaFhXJSWgNnXOZnM6GmxTBoEDJkQoaNal14onI423qN-1X1sPu6plBScdziKfA/s1600/IMG_3679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRW9a_3SAEt3ypDbqGnCPu7E__yTJtBJJy5ileFW3CgcDRinttLPuIG-afhCrM0kJJIOd5oeTDfPLaA3yaFhXJSWgNnXOZnM6GmxTBoEDJkQoaNal14onI423qN-1X1sPu6plBScdziKfA/s640/IMG_3679.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artichoke in bloom.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> When one arrives, you are greeted to the front field of artichokes in full bloom along with various fruit trees. The back 'yard' is filled with rows of Italian veggies and herbs along with dozens of fruit trees. It is a gorgeous example of how farming can be beautiful. The whole area (entire property) is heavily mulched. <br />
<br />
GARDEN REMINDER: Mulch is a great way to improve your soil & conserve moisture. It allows for desirable critters, such as worms, to make the uppermost surface area of the soil home. It maintains an area of moisture and protection that is the perfect environment for plant roots. Think of mulch as a protective blanket for the soil. It protects & improves (the nutrient content, soil food web diversity) of your soil as it breaks down...plus it looks great! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoBvPAUM3M7q7ORSWy0FlZlD9AmgbyCdUv6QUkADuBa8m8ym2TngCbkIS3kd0NqCth_RVLWtRXh-DoLQMnKomcllva7hwmtOj2HrjQ4S2hep2DERst2fYdUcQ_b_Dz6iKuWsAhe67sISP7/s1600/IMG_3683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoBvPAUM3M7q7ORSWy0FlZlD9AmgbyCdUv6QUkADuBa8m8ym2TngCbkIS3kd0NqCth_RVLWtRXh-DoLQMnKomcllva7hwmtOj2HrjQ4S2hep2DERst2fYdUcQ_b_Dz6iKuWsAhe67sISP7/s400/IMG_3683.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are Barnevelder chickens. This breed was selected due to its heat and cold tolerance. Not to mention it's beauty. Hens and eggs for sale! Check it out online.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUSRj5PgPLR6btaMP_mBhO18azZWsIwcBUmms7QbVuZlVVRTjiVvW6iwm3T9-dzisu-jOfUogI15_nRIgfE5-BeJPq8NgtCfH2a_PZCTUesfWV2ju5eLo6NC7FwACQMFWJMWCKdlMK0JS/s1600/IMG_3685.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUSRj5PgPLR6btaMP_mBhO18azZWsIwcBUmms7QbVuZlVVRTjiVvW6iwm3T9-dzisu-jOfUogI15_nRIgfE5-BeJPq8NgtCfH2a_PZCTUesfWV2ju5eLo6NC7FwACQMFWJMWCKdlMK0JS/s640/IMG_3685.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a beauty! She just caught a Japanese Beetle just before this photo. Good girl.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzcmFRFx5Lm4m35lJ_yrL_apeCPHHUEV_2sk-DxovIV9DIrVVqpnspp9GVkBvBSXMq-_B_f6jWNVZiqSqc_w2HJXAyrd-6sNLFpenjux0mXyfacMs-6CKPTfEYYdzN1rFFLJrwS9TKwuh/s1600/IMG_3689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzcmFRFx5Lm4m35lJ_yrL_apeCPHHUEV_2sk-DxovIV9DIrVVqpnspp9GVkBvBSXMq-_B_f6jWNVZiqSqc_w2HJXAyrd-6sNLFpenjux0mXyfacMs-6CKPTfEYYdzN1rFFLJrwS9TKwuh/s400/IMG_3689.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These hens eat a diet of veggies and grain. Chickens are omnivores and love to eat insects, grasses, etc, etc.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Craig invited me over not only to see the farm, but to learn how they harvest their chickens and process them for dinner. It was an amazing experience to see and experience first hand what it is like to take a living organism and see to it's humane death and processing from start to finish. I have been a meat eater all of my life and I think it was important for me to be a part of the process. I have a greater respect for all the pieces of the food web puzzle. Thank you Craig for imparting your wisdom.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4nxifezxAF67nFslolo7d4lG7aGSej_MLdCG7fe4Ekn7rWGxtWZTffzT1BrtnZ1niycRClt16XLopqMwFpkMHSpWo3NGw32iOvjgN8ApKrjCI-QJkLAyERItXk-8WVYeO_EZBaXfnQryN/s1600/IMG_3686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4nxifezxAF67nFslolo7d4lG7aGSej_MLdCG7fe4Ekn7rWGxtWZTffzT1BrtnZ1niycRClt16XLopqMwFpkMHSpWo3NGw32iOvjgN8ApKrjCI-QJkLAyERItXk-8WVYeO_EZBaXfnQryN/s640/IMG_3686.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lovely ladies of Winnetka Farms, Barnevelders. The not as lovely lady (front and center) is the eldest in the flock.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> If you would like more information on Winnetka Farms, please use this link. <a href="http://www.winnetkafarms.com/">click here.</a><br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-48961348761823556282011-08-21T18:16:00.000-07:002011-08-21T18:16:30.848-07:00The Farmer's Kitchen.Hello Friends,<br />
<br />
I attended an event hosted by <a href="http://foodforward.org/">Food Forward</a> this past weekend held in Hollywood at the Farmer's Kitchen. It was an amazing class all about canning those delicious summer tomatoes. The women in attendance were shown how to prepare, cook and can summer's most revered fruit in local kitchen. The <a href="http://www.hollywoodfarmerskitchen.org/">Farmer's Kitchen</a> is a local business that is dedicated to providing locals (and tourists alike) foods prepared with local, all natural ingredients and lots of love. I encourage you all to check it out. (I had my eye on the Peach Salsa! Yum.)<br />
<br />
It was a fun filled day of good food, hard work and lots learning. Chef Evan Kleiman of Good Food taught us how to make a real Italian tomato sauce. Master Food Preserver, Delilah Snell of <a href="http://www.backyardinajar.com/">Backyard in a Jar</a> taught the group how to make Tomato Jam. Fun fun fun.<br />
<br />
I hope this inspires you to create magic in your own kitchen! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPC0GG3tZ7sD7OQw1jO5Zs5AHFZj67ip8SmairDgItGYBt7W8y7xuFLs-i6lbniUebwF0SpzSPCgv2EBinhZf1CBrKdorYWBMfwa8OaoaRc34FsBQOX25FBUbJ2DA5SIUuDBXx4j-VHXUY/s1600/IMG_3655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPC0GG3tZ7sD7OQw1jO5Zs5AHFZj67ip8SmairDgItGYBt7W8y7xuFLs-i6lbniUebwF0SpzSPCgv2EBinhZf1CBrKdorYWBMfwa8OaoaRc34FsBQOX25FBUbJ2DA5SIUuDBXx4j-VHXUY/s400/IMG_3655.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing the donated tomatoes for cooking.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdkLC5wWSVAkhAVVh8fEHmsau3NZUfwP_Mw26EbU5A3rUTMKD8dPD4By_k02yJATac5M38TCWa5PB0msuNApLqfhyUnp5PrDzadv1uP6AwM5KxxiLWp44dQEspLrH-xurMPXO72lt7YhRX/s1600/IMG_3657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdkLC5wWSVAkhAVVh8fEHmsau3NZUfwP_Mw26EbU5A3rUTMKD8dPD4By_k02yJATac5M38TCWa5PB0msuNApLqfhyUnp5PrDzadv1uP6AwM5KxxiLWp44dQEspLrH-xurMPXO72lt7YhRX/s640/IMG_3657.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rainbow of delicious heirloom tomatoes prepared and ready to cook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_6tqHz4TRVtUv9v6n6cUTkWIX_U8jwp3rtEnP015O-ccaATNE3KtHJKi7QBvab8D9Y7Noy4dCnxoa-Jb_B9zEGVbugijJ0HJJF7U6wisB8nf8rNUMPWsQG45g2TYMyo5Q4138JY6V-kkQ/s1600/IMG_3658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_6tqHz4TRVtUv9v6n6cUTkWIX_U8jwp3rtEnP015O-ccaATNE3KtHJKi7QBvab8D9Y7Noy4dCnxoa-Jb_B9zEGVbugijJ0HJJF7U6wisB8nf8rNUMPWsQG45g2TYMyo5Q4138JY6V-kkQ/s640/IMG_3658.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomato Art.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKa42J9SCozj04Lhc2EaE5K_m4CRJUuugDV4gbJaJqZ263rOrcq3iGDsm_DR2o2hiZ7lCx9dHpb03brugLqigRWI80Qr3Lf8xJK3_nvIhvfoARmn9GGb4NtbkfvRkq7UpDNmALhGpWEpnD/s1600/IMG_3661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKa42J9SCozj04Lhc2EaE5K_m4CRJUuugDV4gbJaJqZ263rOrcq3iGDsm_DR2o2hiZ7lCx9dHpb03brugLqigRWI80Qr3Lf8xJK3_nvIhvfoARmn9GGb4NtbkfvRkq7UpDNmALhGpWEpnD/s400/IMG_3661.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evan Kleiman teaches us all how to make tomato sauce.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimlwYNr2RIshliNdpPT2Z92uQIazvZmzArcqmGNIq0TwxutRmqqaYRlAqK-vpQlwQZ0CW3Sax4khEqNSfXdpVjQ93dIuKmFs60pKhUNq7mgCjV-BsL1uMb2BZV3S1ZNNigBYd2-mkkRiVb/s1600/IMG_3663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimlwYNr2RIshliNdpPT2Z92uQIazvZmzArcqmGNIq0TwxutRmqqaYRlAqK-vpQlwQZ0CW3Sax4khEqNSfXdpVjQ93dIuKmFs60pKhUNq7mgCjV-BsL1uMb2BZV3S1ZNNigBYd2-mkkRiVb/s640/IMG_3663.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tray of tomatoes donated by Scott Daigre of Tomatomania. These were passed around to admire the various colors and flavors that tomatoes exhibit. Yum!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KXYaLBgSExuBLM6VKatv4Y5N2FZKfYsyDkL9-SSBAGE7Vafo2qGd-GgxwmSL7lw6WjhKR_Qcf8bVI0O_ykBtY0hgNc_EJpQtdK7jfjingJAIXrM-6HoCHSANxeYSQ0l4wP-qV8w2hqCV/s1600/IMG_3665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KXYaLBgSExuBLM6VKatv4Y5N2FZKfYsyDkL9-SSBAGE7Vafo2qGd-GgxwmSL7lw6WjhKR_Qcf8bVI0O_ykBtY0hgNc_EJpQtdK7jfjingJAIXrM-6HoCHSANxeYSQ0l4wP-qV8w2hqCV/s640/IMG_3665.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More Tomato Art.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvt9FbFaYB9l15sBUZA9pSURIUgZJIFnlrarExxI-TXpNmPFGgdsMafbBh7C7j1srOaR4F0-UKUeReZ9-G2Vd6BdPnVQ9a36mPl3kNm2wMo-bG6LHylQwCs5mMTfJw_ONO39Qt25vodbE-/s1600/IMG_3666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvt9FbFaYB9l15sBUZA9pSURIUgZJIFnlrarExxI-TXpNmPFGgdsMafbBh7C7j1srOaR4F0-UKUeReZ9-G2Vd6BdPnVQ9a36mPl3kNm2wMo-bG6LHylQwCs5mMTfJw_ONO39Qt25vodbE-/s640/IMG_3666.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomato tasting.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-42946262232043646612011-08-17T09:20:00.000-07:002011-08-17T09:20:18.856-07:00Sherman Library and Gardens.Hello Friends,<br />
<br />
Do you like succulents? A visit to the Sherman Library and Gardens in Corona Del Mar, CA is a MUST! The gardens hold many horticulture treasures for the senses in its 2+ acres on the California coast. I loved the whole place, but absolutely fell in love with their cacti and succulent garden brimming over with color and form. It was also dotted with Epiphytes (that's right, I said it Epiphytes!...it is the Bromeliad and Cacti families that live without soil on cliffs or tree tops.) <br />
<br />
I think one of the great things about visiting other gardens is taking home some inspiration for your own garden. I hope these pics inspire you to create a piece of heaven in your own yard. And the best part...succulents use very little water! How cool is that?!<br />
<br />
I hope you are inspired and will even visit the gardens themselves. Check out this link: <span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://www.slgardens.org/">Sherman Library and Gardens. </a></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RQzWfCTgqQpBCdz1wnx4mekkMSy6qtkF8NKS1Jfk83HGYqKL_SKnieJzlobg0H2nZVF1JaWkittpumnzNdg3odUDR-Q6yh6fwGG_a-MQo6XXJMxw6Pys_X98iakjZ-gB1Ylqpy9O5_Vx/s1600/IMG_1958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RQzWfCTgqQpBCdz1wnx4mekkMSy6qtkF8NKS1Jfk83HGYqKL_SKnieJzlobg0H2nZVF1JaWkittpumnzNdg3odUDR-Q6yh6fwGG_a-MQo6XXJMxw6Pys_X98iakjZ-gB1Ylqpy9O5_Vx/s640/IMG_1958.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upon entering the gardens you are greeted with this gorgeous pool and fountain.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkzWCBmWl9Vk4iJgSpGbiQdndzLrPRg_3MsW6A_7ML1RxighDXAS5qY70VYNxCMJ-IwBS04iNaqOnM3XSEt0Z7SukdnYBZmUTb-DB_Elmlnd86w7EOeVZT64GqyxqpjanGdQ82NvpA0A6/s1600/IMG_1959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkzWCBmWl9Vk4iJgSpGbiQdndzLrPRg_3MsW6A_7ML1RxighDXAS5qY70VYNxCMJ-IwBS04iNaqOnM3XSEt0Z7SukdnYBZmUTb-DB_Elmlnd86w7EOeVZT64GqyxqpjanGdQ82NvpA0A6/s320/IMG_1959.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And greeted with this adorable garden helper, doing his part to keep the place up. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdcy2E7J7M884VRqRZdaLDJEL1-lVCLoQMsqafShlFZE3jye5m2k5zfnefW3dlFQkWO1HD3fwAJ-Xw3ika9bAInwNZws5750yOf7hDU4bIVE38sW5XRnVJHHCTrCqRQaIIIHvaLAaOXlwE/s1600/IMG_1961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdcy2E7J7M884VRqRZdaLDJEL1-lVCLoQMsqafShlFZE3jye5m2k5zfnefW3dlFQkWO1HD3fwAJ-Xw3ika9bAInwNZws5750yOf7hDU4bIVE38sW5XRnVJHHCTrCqRQaIIIHvaLAaOXlwE/s400/IMG_1961.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Succulents along the stairs, why not?! Looks amazing in person and adds that touch of magic to the garden.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihLS6LGuLOy783sho9IMlIH0AJ0mJd5CgMjfwPTNuvOgplJaYV55qGFRBQtw8MFIeiZj1uvcy00shgl8ooHGgR1JnN3biY3BDj8d7ZB39N-jI5q4etCYnf1bmlFHR-vpEGw2mfUHMisDS/s1600/IMG_1965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihLS6LGuLOy783sho9IMlIH0AJ0mJd5CgMjfwPTNuvOgplJaYV55qGFRBQtw8MFIeiZj1uvcy00shgl8ooHGgR1JnN3biY3BDj8d7ZB39N-jI5q4etCYnf1bmlFHR-vpEGw2mfUHMisDS/s320/IMG_1965.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biggest <i>Rhipsalis sp. </i>I have EVER seen. Yes, it could be called Cousin It. I like to call it amazing!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdo_y0abfkXgKbXpTVKzVCvCpveCRECtF19jS1xGmQ47gOogldfRoYdDU42C2YxB77YnjdJaG7xZpMoytIIrAotxouWb_OIizFXmivcWNOqQIcP4K19rZlTPWz2ZK-ThVKFMqerSRxHT_c/s1600/IMG_1966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdo_y0abfkXgKbXpTVKzVCvCpveCRECtF19jS1xGmQ47gOogldfRoYdDU42C2YxB77YnjdJaG7xZpMoytIIrAotxouWb_OIizFXmivcWNOqQIcP4K19rZlTPWz2ZK-ThVKFMqerSRxHT_c/s640/IMG_1966.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This dry river bed is executed to perfection. Talk about water wise! It not only saves water but it 'saves' water by letting rainfall recharge the ground supply. Genius! </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9LngTxhh3AE3qctrwol-OQHBmjXOAspOaS3B88kzVD_4oJWbOuvLPWW2p1ZQ3uUHf4EGKkgp8Mg1fSFm1ilB-QIwTS0EDDFtS2g-5T5y0MUJ8PZsz-TGEErxbpLkvVBzUQXQpCTYjtQRS/s1600/IMG_1969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9LngTxhh3AE3qctrwol-OQHBmjXOAspOaS3B88kzVD_4oJWbOuvLPWW2p1ZQ3uUHf4EGKkgp8Mg1fSFm1ilB-QIwTS0EDDFtS2g-5T5y0MUJ8PZsz-TGEErxbpLkvVBzUQXQpCTYjtQRS/s640/IMG_1969.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why not 'paint' a picture in your garden with succulents?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7sVnJ3MLwXbDL2rcw3Kbh7oCf77axQoHfkYRs8tTHdCB7u_jftJlihPboqXZvHUf4h9wh1Ja3LmclVRcKzqz2_TdW2h-EZmBSvynwBi8vQXGS6ERhGL9-3Y3MIfJpI-C63Bdlj0ZR4V-t/s1600/IMG_1970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7sVnJ3MLwXbDL2rcw3Kbh7oCf77axQoHfkYRs8tTHdCB7u_jftJlihPboqXZvHUf4h9wh1Ja3LmclVRcKzqz2_TdW2h-EZmBSvynwBi8vQXGS6ERhGL9-3Y3MIfJpI-C63Bdlj0ZR4V-t/s640/IMG_1970.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It is a canvas of plants and rocks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2scbrjyRbGiSfMUo8k7wIDST7mDTlKYmLuAVdKgMXh8FYIogNU9ZVDj3PT4fEcN0NJBBRQyEaWhPEO2XZURhcXscCckn7awCIiXIb4Xllp2c7FOlyMA_aP2NmfwexFOVSzGmaSpIvXfZ/s1600/IMG_1971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2scbrjyRbGiSfMUo8k7wIDST7mDTlKYmLuAVdKgMXh8FYIogNU9ZVDj3PT4fEcN0NJBBRQyEaWhPEO2XZURhcXscCckn7awCIiXIb4Xllp2c7FOlyMA_aP2NmfwexFOVSzGmaSpIvXfZ/s640/IMG_1971.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garden Art.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0Sd7tQgFU7k86gt5Opd-8RPj8lKr2y0Pi9x6Xg4FN042BCTGO41VYB7So_o8NoWDC9XrHDGdEOBHu_Y3mo7tayvwm77NmlUYeP7Tk4V0TlbkOmQNKSpxCITSR_U-SsjinMJ_UeRdAqV7/s1600/IMG_1972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0Sd7tQgFU7k86gt5Opd-8RPj8lKr2y0Pi9x6Xg4FN042BCTGO41VYB7So_o8NoWDC9XrHDGdEOBHu_Y3mo7tayvwm77NmlUYeP7Tk4V0TlbkOmQNKSpxCITSR_U-SsjinMJ_UeRdAqV7/s640/IMG_1972.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here we have a mixing of plant types: Bromeliads on the left and Succulents of the right. Stunning.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmv24gOuoSZOj-UrQlOQhB1lX-Dn2uqNwo25I293mC17k-Et27kwraheAuGp7e6eG-K9HMCknPkhCTG34CCbGeXan0NfdJ_0lsYfxNOrRbvSjFKNEThr4eoyyAfYMQeaezjwaCiOTc1Nm/s1600/IMG_1974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmv24gOuoSZOj-UrQlOQhB1lX-Dn2uqNwo25I293mC17k-Et27kwraheAuGp7e6eG-K9HMCknPkhCTG34CCbGeXan0NfdJ_0lsYfxNOrRbvSjFKNEThr4eoyyAfYMQeaezjwaCiOTc1Nm/s400/IMG_1974.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Say cheese... I could not help it...that is the biggest <i>Furcrea sp. </i>I have ever seen! Wowsa.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVxZHFcPkbBg6DIlFPTvdavH7kUPmSOFsMoam9gcW0DdBGw0L7aC9LodfnQMgERuJts-W3Pax1BD6niThJpzmhs8mgpBvKK8ezzgLf_RJDhfzmpWSCkeqjwEw4W26Yekl9j9JEr79Mg8a/s1600/IMG_1975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVxZHFcPkbBg6DIlFPTvdavH7kUPmSOFsMoam9gcW0DdBGw0L7aC9LodfnQMgERuJts-W3Pax1BD6niThJpzmhs8mgpBvKK8ezzgLf_RJDhfzmpWSCkeqjwEw4W26Yekl9j9JEr79Mg8a/s640/IMG_1975.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this color and form!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsWbt-eMBHeOYTgSzJ7SY_SATeDOkm8CA9tVqh-Ya20pt11KyVZwbHRDw9VQ_qc8OTkL_1r7fJXpRi-vQ19XyVbkZFVtK3j4IYT_SJhq_18S2RANbB6SZUuHMaEGrklZw0vpZ7U7IC7lP/s1600/IMG_1989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsWbt-eMBHeOYTgSzJ7SY_SATeDOkm8CA9tVqh-Ya20pt11KyVZwbHRDw9VQ_qc8OTkL_1r7fJXpRi-vQ19XyVbkZFVtK3j4IYT_SJhq_18S2RANbB6SZUuHMaEGrklZw0vpZ7U7IC7lP/s640/IMG_1989.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great plant combo! <i>Pennisetum rubrum</i>, Orange Nemesia, <i>Pelargonium 'Vancouver Centennial', and </i>a Lime foliage Bacopa.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-23780198656654856862011-08-14T13:49:00.000-07:002011-08-14T13:49:58.567-07:00Colour, wonderful colour!Hello Friends!<br />
<br />
It is a beautiful Sunday here in Ojai, CA. Spending multiple days here is a real treat. I am sitting looking out over the green, Oak-studded mountains that are punctuated with dry, open spaces of dry grasses. The natural beauty here is absolutely stunning! As I drink in the natural beauty my mind wanders to another time I spend drenched in natural beauty of a different sort.... The Chelsea Flower Show in London, England. <br />
<br />
The following pics were taken in May of this year and represent just a taste of the botanical menagerie that is exhibited for events holders to see. Please enjoy, and may the color of nature elevate your mood no matter what you are feeling at this moment... may your day be just a little (or a lot) more colorful! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPE0eXA1eWuAXa8A6NiPCEt5YxWeA5UIaS4_-f1sqb8LFXWCydaDrmIqBmy5k3MbF01PcdBF7ezYY7fcqlltv1lIb-UGXNpmI5iEX44Kr6C3TEO83y_SOcdQdgqJCgQ289PJi8TCfHrGP/s1600/IMG_2759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPE0eXA1eWuAXa8A6NiPCEt5YxWeA5UIaS4_-f1sqb8LFXWCydaDrmIqBmy5k3MbF01PcdBF7ezYY7fcqlltv1lIb-UGXNpmI5iEX44Kr6C3TEO83y_SOcdQdgqJCgQ289PJi8TCfHrGP/s640/IMG_2759.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oriental Poppy, <i>Papaver orientale.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4LSrpBVAYYTL-KSlH3CeoWF_1k1G3mg_KHb5160U9gurbMSXdHk72_kiItSfoJ2msLO3yf7rUMndOc2QSvSWEH9dXLJFWb49oy6WzP_VcEVGrsTNqLC7HAol7L5N2Quo3czK09C4FHRFu/s1600/100_0513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4LSrpBVAYYTL-KSlH3CeoWF_1k1G3mg_KHb5160U9gurbMSXdHk72_kiItSfoJ2msLO3yf7rUMndOc2QSvSWEH9dXLJFWb49oy6WzP_VcEVGrsTNqLC7HAol7L5N2Quo3czK09C4FHRFu/s640/100_0513.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bevy of tuberous Begonias along with a downpour of Delphinium.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO70s6gssQDO3BYo52ghZamhHZlA7JlhAQgL6ZUbAzfuEc8TQySg_3mJWy2aUx6VXn5Mv0Sbi9Yqwvx6K-XwsE2rCf5pSj3_p2ew-3A0fxLPFYbtTOjEaSTjHkWirlsU-qIbshX6n0D_K_/s1600/100_0544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO70s6gssQDO3BYo52ghZamhHZlA7JlhAQgL6ZUbAzfuEc8TQySg_3mJWy2aUx6VXn5Mv0Sbi9Yqwvx6K-XwsE2rCf5pSj3_p2ew-3A0fxLPFYbtTOjEaSTjHkWirlsU-qIbshX6n0D_K_/s640/100_0544.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rex Begonias make great houseplants in bright, indirect light.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvPbDWUR5yVB7BwPh1opoJA8rP6sqQc4jHbppp2aa5r-DzjOVG2U4AZTrQJfYpSSbNNhpc2XkFo7UvaEQfFjYVUtYUN2SMTLD4F4-HVIqOU-3fcR2hAsdhXE7C5bbk33A6Su74jXf_NuZZ/s1600/100_0603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvPbDWUR5yVB7BwPh1opoJA8rP6sqQc4jHbppp2aa5r-DzjOVG2U4AZTrQJfYpSSbNNhpc2XkFo7UvaEQfFjYVUtYUN2SMTLD4F4-HVIqOU-3fcR2hAsdhXE7C5bbk33A6Su74jXf_NuZZ/s640/100_0603.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum spheres.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixGqXq70-1DvhyvCf-txrrC2wP2UN7EVlHyjo7Ra1NlBU-_Secy3TRfP7ezx0uMdwoAoRFVdD5VxREOmqv7jVLKdjdaR3i8y0DXKfMcOhyFmNRSYOpWUgrVJIXNa_Bm9j27KzjmshlBS2e/s1600/100_0617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixGqXq70-1DvhyvCf-txrrC2wP2UN7EVlHyjo7Ra1NlBU-_Secy3TRfP7ezx0uMdwoAoRFVdD5VxREOmqv7jVLKdjdaR3i8y0DXKfMcOhyFmNRSYOpWUgrVJIXNa_Bm9j27KzjmshlBS2e/s640/100_0617.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contrasting tulips make for a stunning display. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5bk0l5wXXqG5nFXpuz8mghKXlnil9LyROqIPGV7_-hpmeqGFhAkQLtVeLccqV_gAOicgNIQ2rexGHv06C5EK2UGSdfzChbeOKG-Z-ghm_ggLbn9AbKM1W85AD2NFTHXgO-ddf6VGH3xP0/s1600/100_0637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5bk0l5wXXqG5nFXpuz8mghKXlnil9LyROqIPGV7_-hpmeqGFhAkQLtVeLccqV_gAOicgNIQ2rexGHv06C5EK2UGSdfzChbeOKG-Z-ghm_ggLbn9AbKM1W85AD2NFTHXgO-ddf6VGH3xP0/s640/100_0637.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bougainvillea bonanza!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiq2LnZaERDAnv99E8Fz-uYmrMaKXN5UKmHE7YvtodiIM1VNTM3zoD9b2jH6mSu7jODBL6z1GG4zGgMBoRWmx-hKaZyl_IR8kO-ihLniW_yqNIw1z7i2wkeGkH2ESNrF_fzPwoNzpYJrx-/s1600/100_0639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiq2LnZaERDAnv99E8Fz-uYmrMaKXN5UKmHE7YvtodiIM1VNTM3zoD9b2jH6mSu7jODBL6z1GG4zGgMBoRWmx-hKaZyl_IR8kO-ihLniW_yqNIw1z7i2wkeGkH2ESNrF_fzPwoNzpYJrx-/s640/100_0639.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bougainvillea come in a variety of color and sizes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBMBHdKiD_fQU6LlnkuosvwdxmnxHPAIyhntvDP5jDM7qNXfjhHT178DH_wgVTaEr6duAhbuAngnei_1TNRynRCowsC-5iUAaUhTM0hemDmqY2Msc8b5EEzOKIkaNONKaBs_18VnOinXJj/s1600/IMG_2851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBMBHdKiD_fQU6LlnkuosvwdxmnxHPAIyhntvDP5jDM7qNXfjhHT178DH_wgVTaEr6duAhbuAngnei_1TNRynRCowsC-5iUAaUhTM0hemDmqY2Msc8b5EEzOKIkaNONKaBs_18VnOinXJj/s640/IMG_2851.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lavander-a-plenty. Yes, it comes in white and pink as well!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAZziKyGjG1z5aGQu4jM4-MUZTm3gQ-Mn6InYep47JziLLsQqkYsw8PQ8ti3X1-m5PJ3sjbvnRSFgpWxZiLuvxplNY8dh3PGrtUZHVSpKK3gGZYNrFu2LZFdzhxnJLsL8eCf0Z7HvZR7q/s1600/IMG_2917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAZziKyGjG1z5aGQu4jM4-MUZTm3gQ-Mn6InYep47JziLLsQqkYsw8PQ8ti3X1-m5PJ3sjbvnRSFgpWxZiLuvxplNY8dh3PGrtUZHVSpKK3gGZYNrFu2LZFdzhxnJLsL8eCf0Z7HvZR7q/s640/IMG_2917.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Asiatic lilies are real show stoppers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8s7-yZCnHLMTwWkMesfqyemUvh3aulyc_efKLxuDb94gvcDe8NsRY1tASnIqkbEhSDpeBvpRzNun3dyStbqi88EJDlnAI79ZVj2QLZujuH2Hi89CU7yCa2hCQjJR4daAqPmIFAcaJonLq/s1600/IMG_2927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8s7-yZCnHLMTwWkMesfqyemUvh3aulyc_efKLxuDb94gvcDe8NsRY1tASnIqkbEhSDpeBvpRzNun3dyStbqi88EJDlnAI79ZVj2QLZujuH2Hi89CU7yCa2hCQjJR4daAqPmIFAcaJonLq/s640/IMG_2927.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeah, I have about 100 photos of these guys. Gorgeous!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipiQu3jDsWEbILuvsnMXdhpyv3zN0u9UOC3n8MyU0dGstEnFT3peCwi43mcaszEs1CZ9SnOd0qxxIqKBXc7eIdjxzCIXycTJgRpKF7Tzcyte3VjzxgAcAQoe9yb6Q17ycNsgiPR11_u0Tg/s1600/IMG_2957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipiQu3jDsWEbILuvsnMXdhpyv3zN0u9UOC3n8MyU0dGstEnFT3peCwi43mcaszEs1CZ9SnOd0qxxIqKBXc7eIdjxzCIXycTJgRpKF7Tzcyte3VjzxgAcAQoe9yb6Q17ycNsgiPR11_u0Tg/s640/IMG_2957.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Streptocarpus sp</i>: a great houseplant that blooms year round! A must have for any home.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2822181157120307600.post-75970419379771777982011-08-13T12:46:00.000-07:002011-08-13T12:46:55.995-07:00A Day in The LIFE...Hello All,<br />
<br />
Wow, this is finally a reality! I have been threatening to record my Garden Journey for many moons now, and the time is now. Welcome to life through my eyes. I have been a gardener most of my lifetime and it has brought me countless hours of joy over the years. Through this blog I hope to inspire, educate and impress those of you who are enticed with the natural world of plants. I currently reside in a horticultural paradise, Los Angeles, California. Join me on a journey of photosynthetic pleasure and enrich your daily life. I hope you enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzjpd5pR4-70PsNLmnavZwfqPcor_Y3XaKtXx9hkTG77PK56fZcSg0PMlNKpTks_bl9zZgfCtd_er2oOeNel5nK6sU5l5D39pi2r16pbfGXHVJdnDCFOwctjiGc37baxoOtExInr1TwcrU/s1600/Me+in+Garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzjpd5pR4-70PsNLmnavZwfqPcor_Y3XaKtXx9hkTG77PK56fZcSg0PMlNKpTks_bl9zZgfCtd_er2oOeNel5nK6sU5l5D39pi2r16pbfGXHVJdnDCFOwctjiGc37baxoOtExInr1TwcrU/s640/Me+in+Garden.jpg" width="426" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Valley Village, CA. The Peacock Garden.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhya1cYEmwc6uHL0mypaHtOysjD6TWVQfIibEwom1pHQMtOb36jDRMdjET0wrBgZ2jZIb4rgxZSPW8K_tcolhGAH4NXjbX0ZBE9xP8jqAwXb0f9psV_BIFqDAkT_6lOBdlK55nLqwAqguY8/s1600/M+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhya1cYEmwc6uHL0mypaHtOysjD6TWVQfIibEwom1pHQMtOb36jDRMdjET0wrBgZ2jZIb4rgxZSPW8K_tcolhGAH4NXjbX0ZBE9xP8jqAwXb0f9psV_BIFqDAkT_6lOBdlK55nLqwAqguY8/s640/M+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This garden is in it's first year! Many more to come and much to be anticipated. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_f69mag7CZ5Dw7GChO2jCyn96FZwSitCjzWVmo6Wi7DtueW_nrhkRL0-OvLwG2aMavZ2HuyrhvD2e7eZuV5yvxdv-redqWKvczs82OF-YU786-IutazXJGMu1hr1doorIRshWRl-P4ix/s1600/M+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_f69mag7CZ5Dw7GChO2jCyn96FZwSitCjzWVmo6Wi7DtueW_nrhkRL0-OvLwG2aMavZ2HuyrhvD2e7eZuV5yvxdv-redqWKvczs82OF-YU786-IutazXJGMu1hr1doorIRshWRl-P4ix/s640/M+2.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't be afraid of color. Isn't it wonderful!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgjOy5sgbSL8br_u_-RUM1Fh3Kyic61eUC0A6Th4s7OOQ4qI8AkQJqK6U2842AXgrvIxmvwzE8kNuMKcqxEuQFMcgK8p-WKXyj4PHKZbi3jeBei4ixjM-6Vw44frXoeb0lnEuViXou-nq/s1600/M+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgjOy5sgbSL8br_u_-RUM1Fh3Kyic61eUC0A6Th4s7OOQ4qI8AkQJqK6U2842AXgrvIxmvwzE8kNuMKcqxEuQFMcgK8p-WKXyj4PHKZbi3jeBei4ixjM-6Vw44frXoeb0lnEuViXou-nq/s640/M+3.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squash blossoms at their finest!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><br />
<br />
Stephen Baldonadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306358365677867623noreply@blogger.com1North Hollywood, Los Angeles, CA, USA34.1722281 -118.3789684000000234.1485461 -118.42047040000001 34.1959101 -118.33746640000003