Reading that Vermont had four inches of snow a couple of days ago,
I was filled with gratitude that I had made the move to Southern California in 1972. What
is truly strange, Vermont had just had spring-like weather the day before the snow fell. Leaves were still on the trees. There
was virtually no autumn this year.
Here in the Southern California we have our own challenges. Essentially a desert, and while
Mediterranean plants do well here, the clay and the hot sun can bake plants. It is important to correct the
soil with an amendment that is "right" for the specific type of plant. There are plants that do well in clay soil,
too (check the September Seasonal Checklist Page).
While we are not experiencing a water supply crisis right now, it will happen. Beautiful landscapes
using native plants and selections of Mediterranean plants is wise financial planning. The elimination of turf lawns is an
energy saver--your energy and huge water savings.
