Singagain

Thanks for the tips as revealed in the 5 steps...I have been pondering about what to do in my yard. I don't have much time for lawn upkeep and so have toyed with the idea of keeping the grass to a minimum and planting the de-sodded areas with appropriate plantings...but then, how do I know which plants are right for the yard, and for me? I think I'm a little closer to knowing that answer after reading your article. Lots of practical advice there, so thanks again.

Perhaps I can start small, with maybe some low-growing quickly germinating flowers, like marigold and sweet william...I think I want to plant some veggies, too (not in the yard, but back of the garage). The trick is to get started...

I have been the UC Berkeley Bottanical Gardens, it was last year in November. It was not much money to get in, and I wish my companions and I had had more time to explore, we had to leave early in order to drive back to LA before dark. It was well worth the 3-4 hours we spent there, tho. Be prepared to walk a lot. The California area is probably the largest single area, with paths resembling hiking trails. There are many 'greenhouses' which are enclosed to replicate more tropical climate...and in one there is an actual honeybee hive.

I was interested in the Australian area and had to go through the Asian area to get to it. There are occasional rest areas with benches and viewing platforms. One could easily spend a whole day there...and just skim the surface. This is a place that merits return visits.