Garden tasks though the year 2012

© Project SOUND

Out of the Wilds and Into Your Garden

Gardening with Western L.A. County Native PlantsProject SOUND – 2012 (our 8th year)

© Project SOUND

Through the YearThrough the Year

Garden Tasks – And Pleasures –

Through the Year

C.M. Vadheim and T. Drake CSUDH & Madrona Marsh Preserve

Madrona Marsh Preserve

January 7 & 10, 2012

Gardening in S. CA IS different

© Project SOUND

What makes us so unique? Latitude & coastal position – mediterranean climate

Mild rainy winter/spring Moderately hot, dry summer/fall Year-to-year variability

Extreme elevation changes Foothills and mountains have very different climate than our local ‘lowlands’

Soils – our lowland soils are mostly sedimentary (ocean/river deposited)

© Project SOUND

© Project SOUND

http://www.sunset.com/garden/climate-zones/sunset-climate-zone-los-angeles-area-00418000067298/

You likely live in Sunset Zone 22, 23 or 24

Sunset Zone 24 Coastal Marine Zone

Where hills/cliffs/palisades are low/nonexistent, it runs inland several miles.

Soils tend to be sandy to sandy-clay

Climate zone is almost completely dominated by the ocean – a mild, marine climate. Winters are mild, summers cool, and

the air seldom really dry. On many days in spring and early

summer, the sun doesn’t break through the high overcast until afternoon.

Record heat usually comes in early October, carried to the coast by Santa Ana winds. The wind’s power and dryness usually causes more problems than the heat itself.

Some plants bloom all year long© Project SOUND


This is a wonderful Zone for gardening!

Sunset Zone 23Coast Thermal Belt

Mostly influence by oceans but sometimes influenced by inland heat

Frosts don’t amount to much – 85% percent of the time, Pacific Ocean weather dominates; interior air rules only 15% percent of the time. A notorious portion of this 15 percent consists of those days when hot, dry Santa Ana winds blow.

Lacks either the summer heat or the winter cold necessary to grow pears, most apples, and most peaches. But it enjoys considerably more heat than Zone 24

Temperatures are mild, but severe winters descend at times.

© Project SOUND



Sunset Zone 22Cold-winter Coastal

Cold-winter portions of S. CA coastal climate

Is a coastal climate - influenced by the ocean approximately 85% of the time).

Average summer temperatures warmer than Zone 24

When temperatures drop in winter, these cold-air basins have lower winter temperatures than those in neighboring Zone 23.

No pronounced chilling period – limits growth of plants from local mountains that need a cold dormant period

© Project SOUND



One key to wise gardening: becoming more aware of your climate

Read the weather forecasts like a hawk – they are a good clue to things you’ll need to do or not do

Set out a rain gauge and chart precipitation

Indoor-outdoor thermometer/ humidity meter

Chart soil moisture from Apr-Oct.

Become more aware of wind: daily patterns; direction; monthly patterns; ‘unusual’ events

© Project SOUND

Several good general books specific to our area (L.A. county)

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http://www.californiagardens.com/Essays/garden_calendar_archive.htm

Let’s assume you have a blended garden with CA native plants & traditional veggies/fruits

© Project SOUNDhttp://www.huntingtonbeachca.gov/hbwater/landscape-gardening/water-wise-landscaping.cfm

http://ana-white.com/2010/05/hack-natural-rustic-cedar-raised-beds.html

You have some common CA native plants in your garden

© Project SOUND

Elegant Clarkia

CA Encelia

St. Catherine’s Lace

Golden Stars

‘Yankee Point’ Ceanothus

Blue Elderberry

Purple Sage

We’ll begin our tour of the gardening year in July

Why? - it’s a time of endings & beginnings

The spring bloom season is at it’s end

The warm weather really starts in – true beginning of the dry season

It’s a good time to evaluate what worked – or didn’t – and plan for the next season

Summer vegetables and fruits start to ripen

© Project SOUNDhttp://annystudio.com/calendars/

© Project SOUND

July: End of spring

July Weather & Climate

At a glance: hotter than June and less fog. Nights are warm. CSS & Chaparral plants transition to summer mode.

Temperature: mean high = 74/77 ; mean low = 64/62 Record high = 97/102 ; record low = 52/42

Precipitation: Average: 0.03/0.05”

Winds: usually not important; may have ocean breezes, fog

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July: some plants beginning to dry out

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Transition from spring to summer blooms

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The summer vegetable plants are maturing

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http://www.glenns-garden.com/vegetable-garden-is-growing-well-going-into-july/

http://socalgarden.blogspot.com/2009/06/harvesting-cherry-tomatoes.html

July: General Tasks Planning/Preparation:

Take assessment of your garden: what needs improvement

Start a garden journal & photo log – or get yours organized

Get a new inspirational book; or search the web, go to the library

Great time to create a garden design Order native seeds & bulbs (right

now); order seeds of cool season vegetables

Hardscape/General: Make repairs/changes that weren’t

possible in spring

© Project SOUND

http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com/2011/01/loosen-bare-root-plant-labels.html

http://federaltwist.blogspot.com/2010/08/garden-diary-linear-motif.html

July: General Tasks Watering: summer mode Check soils weekly – water as

needed, during cool periods (early/late in day)

Monitor young plants (at least weekly – more in hot periods):

1st summer: 1 full Zone above final Zone;

2nd summer: ½ Zone above Plants from N. Coast need more

water & spray ‘fog’ beginning in July

Weeds, Diseases & Pests: Summer weeds: bindweed,

mustard, wild lettuce, prickly ox-tongue, sow thistle, others

Get them out while they are small

© Project SOUND

July: Planting & Pruning

Planting: Not too late to plant bean, corn,

cucumber and summer squash from seed.

Pruning: Prune Manzanitas in warm dry

weather; Dead-head Salvia and Penstemon

flower stalks as they finish up, unless you’re collecting the seed. When your sages have finished their bloom, you can cut them back by a third – or wait until fall.

Mow your alternative lawn

© Project SOUND

July: Enjoying the Garden

Edibles/crafts: Harvest leaves, berries, strawberries for tea; Take cuttings of mints for seasonings,

vinegars Harvest conventional fruits as they become

ripe – eat, freeze/can or make into jam/jelly Enjoying the garden:

Enjoy butterflies; take the butterfly class & participate in

butterfly counts Certify your garden - NABA

Certify your garden as a wildlife habitat garden (Nat. Wildlife Foundation)

Sit in the shade; enjoy the fruits of your labors; drink some nice mint tea

Mother Nature’s advice: Work early or late; don’t stress

© Project SOUND

© Project SOUND

August: lazy days of summer

August Weather & Climate

At a glance: warm, dry & pleasant; warm nights ripen summer fruits/veggies; dry soils



Winds: usually not a particular problem

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August: watering needed in most gardens

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August: Buckwheats & silver against a background of evergreen shrubs

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August: summer harvest time continues in earnest

Tomatoes Peppers Beans (all kinds) Eggplant Corn

© Project SOUND

http://www.fotothing.com/fhelsing/photo/2dd1f769d56af992e754b5f85ee69814/

http://socalgarden.blogspot.com/2010_10_01_archive.html

Squash (summer) Squash (‘winter’) Cucumber Melons

Warm-season veggies ripen in summer (or fall)

Guide to S. CA Vegetable Crops

Warm-season Vegetables

Plant: From seed: Mar-May; depends

on how cold the spring is From starts: Apr-June (even

July for late crops)

Ripen: Early crops: June-July (Aug)

Late crops: Aug-Sept

Examples: Early crops: beans, cucumbers,

summer squash, tomatoes, Late crops: corn, melons,

winter squash

Cool-season Vegetables

Plant: From seed: Aug-Oct in shaded

pots; Sep-Oct in ground From starts: Oct-Dec

Ripen: Early crops: Oct-Nov Late crops: Dec-Feb

Examples: Early crops: broccoli, brussels

sprouts, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, mustard, lettuce and other greens

Late crops: peas, cabbage, celery,

© Project SOUND

Some veggies can be planted almost any time – or serially for long season

Beets Carrots Green beans Radishes Swiss chard

© Project SOUND

http://www.vegetable-garden-guide.com/growing-carrots.html

http://tinyfarmblog.com/first-carrots-plus-beets/

August: General Tasks

Planning/Preparation: Decide on cool season veggies –

enjoy browsing the catalogs Order seeds & bulbs; Clean seeds collected from garden Look for a new container or garden

sculpture Tidy up your potting bench Sit in the shade and think about

Water Zones/conservation; Plan to increase shady areas for

outdoor activities

© Project SOUND

http://berkeleyheritage.com/gallery/1000_oaks_tour2007.8.html

August: General Tasks Hardscape:

Apply/re-apply gravel mulch to wildflower & bulb areas – will help them to look less bare

Repair/install hardscape; work in cool times of day

Build raised beds or potting area before Sept. heats up

© Project SOUND

http://www.mastergardeners.org/projects/gilroy.html

http://www.penick.net/digging/?p=14254

© Project SOUND

http://efnep.ucdavis.edu/?blogpost=4501&blogasset=17351

http://www.gardenstogro.com/raised-garden-hinged-fencing.php

http://pcnatthegreenshow.wordpress.com/2010/04/18/california-spring-trials-day-3-along-the-central-coast/

http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf16684008.tip.html

August: General Tasks

Watering: Taper off water to native plants

except Zone 3 & Chaparral and Sonoran Desert plants – give them a good ‘monsoon’;

Weeds, Diseases & Pests: Most summer weeds are winding

down – particularly in drier areas; still a challenge in vegetable garden

Look for signs of fungal disease; prune out diseased branches

© Project SOUND

http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf16684008.tip.html

August: a little propagation & planting

Propagation: Sow seeds of cool-season

vegetables in containers – semi-shade.

Start warm-season grasses from seed in containers – semi-shade

Planting: Plant radishes, carrots,

beets directly into the garden.

© Project SOUND

August: Pruning & Mowing

Pruning: summer pruning month Prune for safety & plant health Hedge-shear if needed Pruning to thin: prune after late spring/summer flowering

Carpenteria californica Heteromeles arbutifolia Keckiella cordifolia Philadelphus lewisii Prunus ilicifolia Salvia spp. (prune now or in Oct/Nov) Desert Legumes: Chilopsis;

Mow (if desired) sod grasses, sedges Coppice (severe prune) to rejuvenate old plants (after bloom)

Comarostaphylis diversifolia * Cornus spp. Heteromeles arbutifolia * Philadelphus lewisii Ribes viburnifolium Rosa spp.

© Project SOUND

http://cngf.org/gardens/meadow.htm

Enjoying the August Garden

Edibles/Crafts: Pick elderberries, other ripe fruits; use or

dry/freeze Pick, use or dry/freeze summer veggies

Enjoying the garden: Enjoy the shade; cool dry garden shade is

delightful Search for a new container or garden

sculpture Eat corn on the cob, melons from your

garden Make elderberry jelly/syrup or dry berries

for tea

Mother Nature’s advice: prepare now for a busy fall – August is often cooler than Sept.

© Project SOUNDhttp://www.csupomona.edu/~panorama/summer2009/focus.html

© Project SOUND

Scorching September

September Weather & Climate

At a glance: transition into fall. Nights may begin to cool off, but days are still warm. Not uncommon to have extremely hot weather and Santa Ana winds. Very dry – low humidity!



Winds: hot, dry Santa Ana winds common.

© Project SOUND

Summer veggies – end of game

© Project SOUNDhttp://cagardenweb.ucdavis.edu/?repository=10369

http://www.slowfamilyonline.com/tag/victory-gardens/

September: General Tasks

Planning/Preparation: Sort/clean/store seeds collected in

spring/summer Explore the CA Garden Web -

http://cagardenweb.ucdavis.edu/

Hardscape/General: Repair/install hardscape (work in the

cool) Install/repair/clean rain catchment

facilities: gutters, sprinklers, rain barrels, french drain, rain garden hardscape, etc.

Prepare veg. garden for winter veggies; remove spent plants, fertilize, mulch

Start a compost bin/pile for your cuttings

© Project SOUND

http://www.californiagrange.org/news/garden_grow.html

http://sbthp.wordpress.com/2011/09/21/it-takes-a-village-to-tend-the-presidio/

September: General Tasks

Watering: major watering month for Zone 2-3 & 3 Taper off all but Zone 2-3 & 3; keep

vegetable gardens, containers, other Zone 3 plants watered – particularly if Santa Anna winds are predicted

Weeds, Diseases & Pests: Grasshoppers and gophers may

be getting desperate Pruning:

Sharpen/repair planting & pruning tools after summer pruning tasks; consider buying new/better tools if appropriate

Rake out cool-season grasses; mow or cut back if needed;

Prune to thin: Adenostoma spp.

Divide native bulbs/corms; store or replant

© Project SOUND

http://tmousecmouse.blogspot.com/2011_11_01_archive.html

http://agrilife.org/etg/2011/02/18/mid-february-marks-rose-pruning-season/

Propagation & planting Propagation from seed: give

seedlings part-shade and keep well-watered Start chilling seeds that need long

(2-3+ month) pre-plant stratification;

First chance to start cool-season plants: Cool-season grass plugs Cool season veggie crops in

nursery containers; broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, other greens

Plant out: Cool-season vegetables from

starts/pony packs; keep well-watered – daily water in early morning or evening.

© Project SOUND

http://www.californiagreekgirl.com/?p=92

Enjoying the September Garden

Edibles/crafts: Pick ripe winter squash, tomatoes,

peppers; enjoy a new recipe Pick fresh sweet corn near coast

Enjoying the garden: Fall sunflowers are blooming: watch

to see what birds, butterflies and insects visit them

Enjoy the scent of Bricklebush in late afternoon;

Purchase a birdbath or fountain (on sale now) to provide a drink for birds

Mother Nature’s advice: fall-blooming natives are important for attracting pollinators & other beneficial insects. Your vegetable garden will benefit.

© Project SOUND

http://blog.jannelsonlandscapedesign.com/?cat=43&paged=2

© Project SOUND

October: subtle hues and lots to do

October Weather & Climate

At a glance: feels more like summer than fall. Hot, dry Santa Ana winds suck the moisture out of everything. Yet we may also get our first real rains. Clearly a transitional month.



Winds: May be the most windy month of the year Other: May be smoggy

© Project SOUND

October: the garden looks like it needs some help

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October: subtle fall palette – like a painting

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October also signals transition time in the vegetable garden

© Project SOUND

http://connect.sierraclub.org/post/ClimateCrossroadsBlog/categories/8E12E318-7AB3-41FD-8FCA-93FD9B8304FA.html

October: lots of preparation

Planning/Preparation: Purchase plants from native plant

nurseries/sales; place in semi-shade and water regularly until planted out.

Consider adding some decorative and educational signs to your garden; explore your options – purchase/ create, then install after pruning

Hardscape/General: Finish installing any hardscape:

fences, paths, patios Re-apply mulch after pruning

© Project SOUND

http://www.calvin.edu/news/archive/a-perennial-the-native-plant-sale

October: time for some planting

Propagation: From seed: cool-season grass plugs;

annual wildflowers, bulb seeds in nursery containers; winter veggie crops. Keep them well-watered.

Start chilling seeds w/ shorter (1-2 month) pre-plant stratification period; check for roots every 2 weeks – plant in nursery containers when first roots emerge

Take semi-soft wood cuttings of ceanothus, manzanita for propagation

Planting: Plant out cool-season vegetables

from starts/pony-packs or from seed

© Project SOUNDhttp://connect.sierraclub.org/post/ClimateCrossroadsBlog/categories/8E12E318-7AB3-41FD-8FCA-93FD9B8304FA.html

http://nadiaknows.com/tag/southern-california-planting-guide/

Watering: prepare for the rainy season – but water like summer if needed

Watch weather forecast like a hawk!!!

Taper off watering all but Zone 2-3 & 3 plants. Keep Zone 3 plants watered – particularly if Santa Anna winds are predicted

Once rains saturate the soil you can turn off your irrigation system (if you have one); check soils periodically during hot, windy, dry weather and water as needed

Install/repair/clean rainwater collection/infiltration system (if not done in Sept.)

© Project SOUND

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rain_gauge

Set out/clean rain gauge

October: time for fall pruning?? Pruning: major pruning month,

particularly for Water Zone 1 and Zone 1-2 plants

Prune to shape/thin: Ribes spp. - Be sure to prune Ribes

now, as they can bloom very early Most summer-dry shrubs & sub-

shrubs/perennials (particularly Coastal Sage Scrub and Coastal Shrubland species)

Hedge-shear – now through Dec. best time for mature plants

Divide native bulbs/corms; store or replant (better)

Remove old leaves, dead stems, tidy up perennials, groundcovers and ornamental grasses

© Project SOUND

The trick is to prune before the rainy season but not during hot, dry periods – to minimize stress on the plant

The pleasures of fall begin

Edibles/crafts: Dry aromatic prunings for

seasoning/tea/potpourri Save artistic-looking materials for

fall/winter decorations, flower arrangements, etc.

Dye some yarn with prunings; or dry the dye-stuff for later

Carve a pumpkin – or make a pie Enjoying the garden:

Go to the native plant sales; see what’s new, ask questions

Visit a new-to-you native plant garden; take your camera and notebook to jot down ideas.

Enjoy the play of tans, browns and grays – a subtle sophisticated color palette

Mother Nature’s advice: don’t fight the weather – work with it.

© Project SOUND

© Project SOUND

Nice (or Naughty) November

November Weather & Climate

At a glance: return of the rainy season (if we’re lucky). Days are shorter and cooler; good time to work in the garden.


Precipitation: An average of 10% of our rain falls in November. Average: 1.11/1.19”

Winds: usually less chance of Santa Anas; may be blustery winter storms

© Project SOUND

The garden looks a little bare

© Project SOUND

Cool-season veggies are taking off

© Project SOUND

http://www.amillionlives.net/vegetable-gardening-tips-easy-ideas-for-great-produces.html

Tidying up this month

Planning: Purchase plants at native plant

nurseries/sales; place in semi-shade and water until planted out.

Hardscape/General: Renew mulch after pruning – so much

easier! Complete your clean-up of summer

blooming perennials and shrubs

Watering: usually into winter mode Once rains saturate the soil you can

turn off your irrigation system (if you have one); check soils periodically during hot, windy, dry weather and water as needed

Water garden well if soils become dry or if no rain for 3 weeks or longer

© Project SOUND

http://a1mowing.com/shrub.htm

http://www.ucrealty.com/blog/F036CE3C-0903-4FFC-BA58-0510C054C0F3

Planting if Mother nature cooperates

Propagation: major propagation month From seed: cool-season grass plugs;

annual wildflowers in containers; shrub & tree seeds w/ short/no pre-chill req.

Check seeds stratifying in refrigerator; plant in nursery pots when you start seeing tiny roots emerge

From cuttings: semi-soft wood cuttings of ceanothus, Manzanita; hardwood cuttings from vines, grapes

Planting: Last chance: replant native bulbs/corms Plant out herbaceous groundcover plants

– keep watered if needed Plant rain garden plants; keep watered Plant out cool-season vegetables from

starts or pony-packs: peas, mustard, spinach, lettuce and other greens

Evaluate/repot container plants as needed

© Project SOUND

http://www.cruciferousvegetables.net/category/cruciferous-vegetable-garden/

Major pruning month

Finish pruning summer-dry shrubs in dry, warm periods (check forecast)

Prune to shape/train: Most native trees and

woody shrubs, vines

Prune to thin: Baccharis spp Berberis spp Ceanothus spp. Cercocarpus spp.

Hedge-shear – good time

© Project SOUND

Prune back groundcover perennials/sub-shrubs: Diplacus/Mimulus spp Eriogonum spp. Mint family: Monardella spp., Salvia spathacea, Stachys

spp. Groundcover sunflowers: Symphyotrichum/Aster spp.,

Achillea millefolium, Artemisia douglasiana, Grindelia spp., Solidago spp.,

Romneya coulteri Aster chilense, goldenrod, Yarrow, Woodmints, CA

Fuschia Divide plants (when ground is soft after rains begin)

Iris douglasii *Heuchera spp. Potentilla , Horkelia Fern species (native) Fragaria spp. (wait until start to grow w/ fall rains) Native cool-season grasses: Festuca, Nassella, Leymus,

Calamagrostis, Melica, Carex tumulicola. Make sure each clump has a good root ball. Water well.

Sisyrinchium spp. Native succulent plants & cacti

© Project SOUND

Enjoy the cooler days of late fall

Edibles/Crafts: Collect and dry rose-hips for

tea Make holiday gifts with

aromatics – potpourri, flavored vinegars

Make jam, jelly or syrup from frozen fruits

Dry cuttings for dye, seasonings

Dye material & yarn

Enjoying the garden: Learn more about fall bird

migration; there’s lots to learn on the internet

Note when the first seed-eating birds visit your spent sunflowers & buckwheats ; set out bird seed

© Project SOUND

Mother Nature’s advice: cool temperatures invigorate us; get out and get some serious exercise!

December: the garden often slumbers

© Project SOUND

December Weather & Climate

At a glance: cold and dark. Days are as short as they get and nights are in the 40’s or cooler. Rain is expected – but may not come in La Nina years (like this year).


Precipitation: usually a good rain month Average: 2.05/2.09”

Winds: winter storms can bring strong winds from the west

© Project SOUND

December: growth is waiting

© Project SOUND

Plants are starting to grow – but not yet convinced to go all out!

© Project SOUND

Meanwhile, out in the vegetable garden…

© Project SOUND

http://blog.gardenerd.com/2009/12/16/malibu-vegetable-garden-delight.aspx

http://www.themanlyhousekeeper.com/2011/11/29/asphalt-garden-harvesting-my-radishes-and-other-garden-adventures/

Busy month – but not in the garden

Planning: wait ’til next month – you’re busy now!

Hardscape/General: Check your hardscape after hard

rains; make repairs if needed Rake paths of fallen leaves;

compost or use as mulch if appropriate

Clear paths and hardscape areas of unwanted seedlings – remove with hoe, hula-hoe or trowel

Watering: winter mode Check soils periodically during

hot, windy, dry weather and water as needed

Water garden well if soils become dry or if no rain for > 3 weeks; you will have to be the rain

© Project SOUND

http://wwwrockrose.blogspot.com/2010/04/bluebonnet-pull-out.html

Planting: good planting month (if rainy) Good month for planting native plants from

containers if rains have started Plant native annual wildflower seeds in

prepared beds before a good rainstorm Plant cool-season grasses/sedges from

plugs/starts Cool season veggies from seed or

starts/pony-packs; include some ‘native greens’ like Claytonia, Trifolia (clover)

Propagation: major propagation month Start from seed: annual wildflowers in

containers; shrub/tree seeds w/ short/no pre-chill req.; cool season veggies

check seeds stratifying in refrigerator; plant in nursery pots when you start seeing tiny roots emerge

Start cuttings from vines, grapes, elderberry

© Project SOUNDhttp://www.family-gardens.com/vegetable-garden-seeds-01282010.html

December: thank heavens for our forgiving climate!

Planting: Can still plant most

cool-season vegetables from starts/pony packs: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, kale, kohlrabi, mustard, lettuce and other greens, and root crops like beets, carrots, radishes, and turnips.

© Project SOUND

http://www.cruciferousvegetables.net/category/cruciferous-vegetable-garden/

Major winter pruning - Dec.

Pruning: major pruning month Prune/train to shape:

Winter-deciduous trees/shrubs Woody vines: Lonicera spp., Vitis spp.,

Prune to thin: choose a dry period if possible

Most winter-deciduous trees/shrubs Pines, junipers, citrus

Prune back groundcover perennials/sub-shrubs (if you didn’t in November):

Diplacus/Mimulus spp; Achillea; Mint family: Monardella spp., Salvia spathacea, Stachys spp.;Epilobium canum, Stachys spp.

Coppice (severe prune) to rejuvenate old plants (dormant)

Berberis/Mahonia spp. ;Cleome isomeris; Dendromecon spp.; Heuchera spp and cultivars; many others

Weeds/Diseases/Pests: Weedy grasses may start to grow,

particularly in a warm spell© Project SOUND

Enjoy the quiet moments… Edibles/Crafts:

Make a holiday decoration like a grape or Toyon wreath using native plant materials

Give seeds, plants, jams, jellies, etc. from your own garden as unique holiday gifts

Eat fresh greens from the garden

Enjoying the garden: Sit in the noon sun & enjoy the

birds – migrants are here; you might even get some good photos

Hang a finch feeder in your garden

Mother Nature’s advice: don’t worry about getting things done – there’s still plenty of time in January

© Project SOUND

http://cagardenweb.ucdavis.edu/?repository=10369

http://www.baynatives.com/plants/Heteromeles-arbutifolia/

© Project SOUND

Cool, wet January

January Weather & Climate

At a glance: Cold and rainy or warm and sunny. Days still short, so rainy days will seem particularly dark. Afternoons cool off quickly.


Precipitation: An average of 20% of our rain falls in January. Average: 2.71/3.26”

Winds: not a particularly windy month

© Project SOUND

January: light & shade; warm & cool

© Project SOUND

There’s a certain beauty to the January garden

© Project SOUND

January: General Tasks

Planning: Visit nurseries to choose/

purchase manzanita and ceanothus in bloom

Check out the seed catalogs on-line; order traditional warm-season vegetable seeds

Take photos of seedlings so you’ll recognize them next year

Hardscape/General: Rake up leaves; rake/level paths Check hardscape, slopes, trees

after heavy rains Watering: winter mode

Water-in all new plants; then water again a week later if needed

Check soil moisture during prolonged dry periods (3 or more weeks) or windy periods; irrigate as needed

Check seedlings daily in warm weather; water as needed

© Project SOUND

http://dangergarden.blogspot.com/2010/04/joy-creek-nursery.html

Elegant Clarkia

January = planting

Propagation: From seed: check seeds stratifying in

refrigerator; plant in nursery pots when roots emerge

Plant other natives from seed

Planting: major planting month The best month for planting native

plants, from large trees to small perennials, grasses, annuals

Plant bare-root and containerized fruit trees of all kinds (native and traditional)

Weeds/Diseases/Pests: major weeding month Cool-season weedy grasses, Creeping

woodsorrel, etc. Weed out native seedlings popping up

in the wrong places Watch for snails & slugs – take

appropriate action

© Project SOUND

January: major winter pruning month as well Prune to thin (if still not done):

winter-deciduous trees/ shrubs – this is often our best month to prune all trees

Rosa spp. Coppice (severe prune) to

rejuvenate old plants Sambucus nigra cerulea

Divide & replant: Perennials like Penstemon,

Gumplant, Heuchera and Yarrow as they begin their growth season

Can still divide and replant native ornmental grasses, sedges, Sisyrinchium, rushes

Mow (if desired) cool-season sod-forming grasses, sedges

© Project SOUND

Ah, January Edibles/Crafts: Spend a rainy day knitting/

crocheting/sewing something from hand-dyed yarn or cloth

Make soap or candles using scented materials dried last fall

Enjoy tangerines or oranges – including straight off the tree

Enjoying the garden: Buy a bird book and pair of

binoculars; get to know your birds Watch hummingbirds and others

gather nesting materials and begin their courtship displays

Sit in a warm spot and enjoy the sun Notice seedlings & bulbs popping

up; early blooming ones may already be forming flowers heads

Mother Nature’s advice: enjoy!

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By middle of January, things are looking promising

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Finally, February

February Weather & Climate

At a glance: transition month; one foot in winter, the other in spring. Temperatures are cool; often our rainiest month.


Precipitation: traditionally one of our rainiest months Average: 3.35/3.91”

Winds: usually not bad© Project SOUND

February: high drama…

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…or softly muted

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http://cagardenweb.ucdavis.edu/?repository=10369

http://california-plants.com/2009/07/19/designing-a-vegetable-garden-that-will-keep-out-gophers-and-moles/

February: General Tasks

Planning: Remember to take pictures of key

vistas in your garden every month or so; these will help you understand your garden –and its seasons - better.

Start a ‘Bloom Calendar’ for key flowering plants in your garden

Hardscape/General: Renew your bog garden/pond

garden Remove unwanted seedlings

(Salvias; Encelia; etc.) Check hardscape, slopes, trees after

heavy rains Watering: may need none at all

Water-in all new plants; then water again a week later if needed

Check soil moisture during prolonged dry periods; irrigate

Check seedlings daily in warm weather; water as needed

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The planting frenzy continues…

Propagation: From seed: good time to start native

shrubs/perennials, warm-season grasses in containers; start traditional summer veggies in nursery containers – protect from frost

Divide: rushes, cattails, other ‘bog garden’ plants;

Planting: major planting month Excellent month for planting most

native plants; especially perennials/sub-shrubs, bunch grasses

Plant annual wildflower seeds in prepared areas for late spring color; you can serial sow Gilas & Clarkias every 2 weeks for flowers into summer (with summer watering)

Plant to fill in bare spaces, or replace plants that have not done well form previous plantings

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February: a little pruning, a lot of weeding

Pruning: Prune to thin:

Clematis spp.; Constancea/Eriophyllum nevinii, Lepechina spp. – now or after flowering

Coppice (severe prune) to rejuvenate old plants - Baccharis spp., * Myrica californica, *Carpenteria californica, * Rhamnus spp., Rhus spp.

Weeds/Diseases/Pests: major weeding month Weedy cool-season grasses are

becoming a menace – get after them now Spring weeds: California burclover,

filarees, many other cool season weeds are perfect size for removing now while ground is moist.

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http://www.tcpermaculture.com/2011/06/permaculture-projects-coppicing.html

February delights Edibles/Crafts: Enjoy native CA greens in salads,

cooked as greens or in stews, soups Enjoy a cup of herb tea from you

selection of teas dried last fall Continue to enjoy citrus fruits; find

some new recipes to use them – or give them away

Enjoying the garden: Look for early-blooming bulbs – they

are enchanting Enjoy the early-blooming

wildflowers, including CA Poppy; photograph them

Expand your horizons: Take a class on some new aspect of

gardening Volunteer at a local Preserve/garden

or natives plant nursery – a fun way to learn, socialize, give back

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Perk up your palette with greens from

your garden Traditional

Lettuce – many types; Spinach; Swiss chard; Peas

Native Claytonia – Miner’s lettuce Heuchera Calandrinia ciliata Camissonia spp. Mimulus guttatus Many others – see list

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http://belfastbites.com/post/11610008188/manresa

Mother Nature’s advice: eat fresh – eat local

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March Madness

March Weather & Climate

At a glance: weather is often a mixed bag - from gray and rainy days to balmy afternoons filled with mellow sunshine.


Precipitation: usually still several good storms Average: 1.85/2.22”

Winds: high winds possible before and after storms

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March: the garden seems to explode with springness

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The garden changes from cool- to warm season

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http://www.alleycatscratch.com/blucher/BackYard.htm

Time to start preparing for warm weather

Planning: Start to think about your gardening

priorities for the next gardening year. Consider your many options.

Hardscape/General: Check hardscape, slopes, trees after

heavy rains Repair paths; flood damage if any Get the veggie garden ready for

warm season crops; fertilize Check hoses, drip lines – repair if

need; warm weather comes quickly!

Watering: hopefully soils are moist Check soil moisture during prolonged

dry periods (3 or more weeks) or windy periods; irrigate as needed to supplement

Check seedlings daily in warm weather

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http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/how-to/step/0,,1088902_911641,00.html

Think summer veggies

Propagation: From seed:

good time to start native shrubs/perennials in nursery containers;

start traditional summer veggies in nursery containers – protect from frost

Planting: Last month to safely plant most

native plants – may be pushing it Last planting of annual wildflower

seeds for late spring/summer bloom: Clarkias, Globe Gilia, Phacelias, Annual Sunflower, Madia

Replace plants that didn’t make it from earlier plantings

Veggies: plant in ground (from seed or starts) beans, squash, carrots, beets, potatoes

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http://socalgarden.blogspot.com/2010_03_01_archive.html

http://www.chartercat.org/group/msgarden

Keep up with weeding, pinching

Pruning: Tip-prune (pinch) to promote fullness: most

perennials and sub-shrubs that are actively growing now (Gambelia; Salvias; Epilobium; many others)

Mow (if desired) cool-season sod-forming grasses, sedges

Divide/replant wetland species (Equisetum, Tules, Cattails, Rushes/sedges

Weeds/Diseases/Pests: major weeding month Weedy grasses will take over if you let them Warm-season weeds will start to poke their

heads up; this is a good time to weed, as the ground is still soft

Beware of slugs and snails – take action Watch for signs of sucking insects (aphids

& others) on new growth; blast off with water if needed – or encourage beneficial insects

© Project SOUNDhttp://www.viette.com/v.php?pg=742

Major month to enjoy the outdoors

Edibles/Crafts: Press wildflowers – or just

photograph them – and make note cards or bookmarks with them

Enjoy native CA greens in salads, cooked as greens or in stews, soups

Take a native crafts or cooking class

Enjoying the garden: major enjoying month Plant a tree for CA Arbor Day; Visit a native plant garden/botanic

garden – see how the designers use native plants in interesting ways

Spend as much time as possible just enjoying being out in your garden – this month begins the enchantment!

Mother Nature’s advice: get outdoors: hike, visit preserves

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Ah, April at last!!!

April’s Weather & Climate

At a glance: As the days lengthen and the sun gets higher and hotter, watering becomes more important. Delightful spring days. May get a little more rain – one last storm



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April annuals & perennials outdo themselves

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April: a month for garden tours

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Warm weather crops are really getting going now

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http://mainfo.blogspot.com/2011/03/container-vegetable-gardening-in.html

Transitions Planning: Take home one new idea from the garden

tours or visiting native plant/botanic gardens. Plan how to incorporate that idea into your garden

Visit spring plant sales; purchase judiciously

Hardscape/General: Fertilize containers, veggie crops if needed

Watering: Taper off water for early spring bulbs

when the leaves start to wither Taper off water for early spring

wildflowers Check hoses, soaker hoses and drip

irrigation; repair & replace as needed Check soils as they begin to dry out.

Turn on irrigation/begin routine summer watering schedule when appropriate

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Collect seeds, continue pinching

Propagation: From seed: Collect seed from early

spring wildflowers; still time to start traditional summer veggies like squash, bean, melons, tomato

Planting: Excellent month for planting bog and

pond/pool plants Plant riparian species and desert

species from spring through summer

Pruning: continue to tip-prune (pinch) to promote fullness: Diplacus spp, Plants in Mint Family (Mentha arvense;

Monardella spp; Lepechinia fragrans, Clinopodium/Satureja; Stachys ),

Gambelia (Galvezia) speciosa Ribes viburnifolium

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Summer weeds are tough hombres – but they are small now

Weeds/Diseases/Pests: major weeding month

Weedy grasses: Crabgrass, Bermuda Grass, Kikuyu grasses start to grow with warm weather

Look particularly for the following weeds: Common knotweed, Wild radish, Prickly lettuce, Prickly ox-tongue, Wild mustard. Remove while they’re small.

© Project SOUNDhttp://bobklips.com/earlyaugust2009.html

Lots to do; all of it fun Edibles/Crafts: Collect dry seeds from early

wildflowers (except Lupine); parch and use as a seasoning/flavoring

Use the ‘mint’ cuttings for fresh mint tea, other uses

Enjoying the garden: major enjoying month Make a bouquet of spring wildflowers

for your table Enjoy the spring peak of bloom; get

out in your garden as much as possible – sit and enjoy the show you created!

Go on the CNPS and Theodore Payne Foundation spring garden tours – bring your camera and notebook. Don’t be afraid to ask questions

Invite a friend over; tell them about your native plants, fruits, veggies

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Mother Nature’s advice: share your love of gardening

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http://rareplanttreasurehunt.blogspot.com/2011/08/highlights-of-season.html

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Magnificent May

May’s Weather & Climate

At a glance: Lovely temperatures and usually quite sunny. Probably one of the most pleasant months. Many flowering species.


Precipitation: may be some fog-drip near the coast Average: 0.22/ 0.22”

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May makes you feel like singing!

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Salvias and Buckwheats loaded with blooms

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http://californiavegetablegarden.blogspot.com/

May: preparations Planning: Make a plan for removing

your lawn, ivy patch, old tree/shrubs or other plants that need removal. Explore methods; see about hiring outside help if needed. This is a really good month to get started on ‘removals’.

Hardscape/General: Check mulch; add/renew if

needed Move bulb pots to cool dry

place once done blooming Repair damaged hardscape if

needed

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http://www.inthegardenradio.com/v.php?pg=847

Water Zones save the day in transition months

Watering: key month to monitor soil moisture

Taper off water for spring bulbs when the leaves start to wither

Taper off water for early spring wildflowers; keep watering late-bloomers until flowering ceases.

This can be a tricky month for watering – soils/containers can dry out before you know it. So check soil moisture weekly.

Turn on irrigation or begin routine summer watering schedule as soon as summer water is needed.

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Surprise – there are things to plant

Propagation: From seed: collect seed from

spring wildflowers

Planting: Riparian/pond and other Zone

3 plants from now to summer

Desert plants from now to summer; water

Direct-seed warm season sod & bunch grasses

Still plant from seed or starts: beans, beets, carrots, cantaloupe, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, limas, okra, parsley, pepper, pumpkin, radish, new Zealand spinach, squash, sunflower, tomato, jicama, watermelon, and Swiss chard.

© Project SOUNDDesert Willow – Chilopsis linearis

May: good for pruning chaparral shrubs

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http://soquelnursery.com/shrubs_abelia_ceanothus.html

Pruning: Prune to shape/train:

Ceanothus, Arctostaphylos, Carpenteria, and other flowering chaparral shrubs once they've finished blooming

Compost the cuttings – or try them as a dye plant

Oil/sharpen pruners, saws, etc. – store

Weeds/Diseases/Pests: Weed out garden well; prevent

weeds from going to seed

May: Intro to Summer Edibles/Crafts: Make a May basket for a friend or

neighbor Make Lemonadeberry ‘lemonade’ if fruits

ripen Pick ripe Berberis fruit; use for jelly or

other recipes; dry for tea; use for dye

Enjoying the garden: major enjoying month Just take it easy; days are warm enough

to enjoy sitting, dining and meditating in the garden.

Take a day-trip with friends to the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden or some other ‘far away’ garden place.

Watch the warm weather vegetables grow – they are amazing! Some may start to flower in warmer gardens.

Mother Nature’s advice: smell, look and listen to nature in your garden

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June gloom – or not

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June’s Weather & Climate

At a glance: coastal climate keeps us much cooler than further inland. Fog common in Zones 22-24 and provides any moisture this month. Soils are definitely drying out.


Precipitation: may be significant fog events near coast Average: 0.08/0.07”

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Lots of green; transitional flowers

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June: end of spring

Planning: Consider ways to make your garden more

friendly for native birds, butterflies, pollinators.

Hardscape/General: Move bulb pots to cool dry place after

blooming Great month to remove unwanted

trees/shrubs Begin removing old lawns, ivy – their

removal may take through the summer and into fall.

Fertilize containers if needed Watering: major watering month

Taper off water for late spring bulbs and spring wildflowers after blooming ceases

Adjust your summer watering schedule to account for foggy days (if any); other than that, you’re into the summer watering schedule

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June is a great time to start removing your old lawn

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http://ulocal.ksbw.com/_Future-Vegetable-Garden/photo/13892788/65101.html

June: Planting, Pruning, Dividing Pruning: into summer pruning mode

If not done in May, prune and shape your Ceanothus, Arctostaphylos, Carpenteria, and other flowering chaparral shrubs once they've finished blooming

Prune back exuberant growth; prune for health & safety

Hedge-shear if needed as shrubs begin summer growth phase

Mow (if desired) warm-season sod-forming grasses, sedges before they begin major growth phase

Dead-head Salvia, Penstemon & Rosa to prolong bloom

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Divide & Replant: Warm season grasses will start growing about now, including Acnatherum

species, Boutetoua species, Muhlenbergia rigens, Sporobolis airoides, and Pleuraphis jamesii. This is the time to divide summer grasses.

Last chance to plant summer veggies

Propagation: Softwood cuttings from woody shrubs

and trees (including those you prune this month); keep moist in a shady spot until well-rooted, 6-10 weeks

Planting: Riparian/pond and other Zone 3

plants Direct-seed warm season sod grasses Plant warm-season vegetables from

plants: Last chance to plant bean, corn,

cucumber and summer squash in the ground from seed

Weeds/Diseases/Pests: major weeding month- summer weeds emerge and/or grow

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http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com/2011/06/our-2011-tomato-garden.html

Look at all the wildlife!

Edibles/Crafts: Collect seed from spring

wildflowers; after drying, make up seed packets to give as gifts

Take cuttings of Artemisia, Salvias for seasonings, vinegars

Collect/dry new summer leaves for tea

See also May suggestions

Enjoying the garden: Visit a native plant garden/ botanic

garden; what tricks are they using to make the garden more interesting this time of year?

Look for Monarchs and other butterflies – do you have enough flowers to attract them?

Mother Nature’s advice: gardens, like natural places, should evolve

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© Project SOUNDhttp://annystudio.com/calendars/

We’ve come full circle: jobs and joys of a year in the S.California garden

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You likely live in Sunset Zone 22, 23 or 24

And learned that every month is one to treasure

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Education

Garden tasks though the year 2012