Most folks think that when winter comes, it’s time to put away the rake and hoe, and hunker down in front of a warm fire with a hot toddy while the garden hibernates.
[img]223|left|||no_popup[/img] That may be true for the rest of the country. But this is California, and we can garden year ‘round.
Believe it or not, winter can be a great time to plant trees and shrubs. As long as the ground isn't frozen, and if you can remember to water everything during dry spells, you can give new trees and shrubs a head start on the growing season.
This is also the time of year when area nurseries, like ours, cut prices because they are looking to move their excess plant inventory. While most consumers have turned their attention to finding the best gift for dad or Aunt Alice, nurseries other than those selling live Christmas trees and seasonal decorative plants are ready to make deals.
Conditional Situation
How you plant those trees and shrubs depends on how they're packaged–bagged and burlapped, bare-root or container-grown. Each requires a different planting technique during the dormant season.
Trees and shrubs in containers need to be planted in the ground soon after bringing them home. If left in the container, it's difficult to give them the kind of tender, loving care they receive in the nursery.
The winter season is an especially good time succulents.
[img]224|left|||no_popup[/img] When most people think of succulents, they conjure up images of foreboding spiny cactus like the Pachycereus Pringlei found in deserts through the Southwest. But succulents come in all shapes, hues and configurations. Succulents not only are hearty and well-suited to a low-water garden, but also are one of the most versatile ornamental plants.
Succulent gardens can add charm and warmth to any California home. Succulents like the ones pictured in this garden thrive in our Mediterranean climate. Combined with other native drought-tolerant plants, succulents can add diversity and balance to your garden.
For Fans of Low Maintenance
[img]225|left|||no_popup[/img] Succulents are a fascinating group of plants, with their exceptional foliage, striking flowers and distinctive form. They also feature a unique ability to grow in harsh conditions, including sites with extreme temperatures, little water, and sandy, rocky soil and shade. These traits all make them excellent low-maintenance choices for an unusual deck garden.
Succulents are also great garden fillers. Use them at the base or around the edges of your garden just as you would cyclaments, bacopa or kalanchoes. Succulents have the benefit of being heartier, and may add great contrast and depth to your landscaping.
In the spirit of the holidays, succulents can also be used to make unique ornamental gifts or even wreaths. Succulents artfully arranged in a unique ceramic bowl or sculpted container can make a memorable and lasting gift for a business associate or loved one.
[img]226|left|||no_popup[/img] Other than the Christmas tree, Holly and Mistletoe, one plant most of us associate with the holidays, is the Poinsettia. These winter plants with their lush red and sometimes yellow foliage adorn holiday tables and décor all across America.
Poinsettias are a member of the Euphorbia family – a succulent.
Carlos Saez is the owner of The Jungle Nursery, a leading designer garden center specializing in unique sculptural plants, tropicals, succulents, bamboo and a wide selection of indoor foliage including orchids. The Jungle, 1900 Sawtelle Blvd., West Los Angeles. 310. 235.2875.
Mr. Saez’ gardening column appears on Wednesdays.
