October 31, 2024
Overplanting Bulbs »
If you’ve got your ear to the ground in November, chances are you’ve collapsed from burying one too many spring… Read More »
October 30, 2024
Fall Fluorescence: Japanese Maples »
Like a large mixed flock of migratory birds, hundreds of young Japanese Maples, mostly varieties of Acer palmatum,… Read More »
October 27, 2024
Celebrating Citrus »
Talk about plants with a history…over eight hundred years ago Chinese agriculturists described dozens of varieties… Read More »
October 27, 2024
How sweet it is »
If you are planning to offer bowls of fragrant forced Paperwhite Narcissus as gifts or holiday decoration (excellent… Read More »
October 27, 2024
The Seed Corner »
It may be cold out, but it’s not too late to give something back to your garden by planting a cover crop. Cover… Read More »
October 27, 2024
The Blueberry: An American native »
Blueberries of the genus Vaccinium are truly a Native American species. These plants are believed to be one of the… Read More »
August 28, 2024
Fire Resistant Gardening »
Seasonal fires were a phenomenon in California many centuries before European settlers arrived. The process whereby… Read More »
August 28, 2024
Tips on Thrips »
Thrips can be a major pest at this time of year. Many people do not realize that their gardens are infested until the… Read More »
August 25, 2024
Ode to the Penstemon »
As diverse as this group of plants is, they all share some common characteristics. The genus Penstemon contains over… Read More »
August 25, 2024
Seeds for the Season »
As the weather again begins to cool in October, the Bay Area typically starts to experience rain. This makes it an… Read More »
June 30, 2024
Foliage Picks »
W hen it comes to gardens, most of us usually first think in terms of flowers. That’s only natural, given the joy… Read More »
June 30, 2024
The Seed Corner »
Many leaf vegetables can be challenging to grow during summer months, especially if your garden lacks shade. Longer… Read More »
June 29, 2024
Come on in…the water’s fine! »
Water gardens have been a part of civilization for thousands of years; from the hanging gardens of Babylon to ancient… Read More »
May 1, 2024
Living with Roses »
This is the time of year when the roses have come into their full glory. I see them showing off all over Berkeley,… Read More »
April 28, 2024
Home Grown Tomatoes »
T he tomato (Lycopersicon lycopersicum) is a short-lived perennial that we treat as an annual. It originated in the… Read More »
April 28, 2024
Thinkin’ of Summer »
Graduations, vacations, and backyard barbecues might actually be a thing this year! But before you start planting your… Read More »
April 28, 2024
Summer Pruning of Fruit Trees »
The early training of a fruit tree is the most important pruning you will ever do. These cuts establish the basic… Read More »
April 28, 2024
Hand Pollinating Cucurbits »
Sometimes customers report that they have lovely lush squash or cucumber plants, but they get a small harvest. They… Read More »
April 27, 2024
Tropical Musings »
With summer on the way, my thoughts wander to tropical plants. As the sun reaches higher, milder nights and longer days… Read More »
April 27, 2024
Growing Spectacular Water Lilies »
Few sights are more beautiful or refreshing in summer than a cool, clear pond with water lilies floating serenely on… Read More »
February 28, 2024
Grow a Cup of Peace »
The act of gardening can be a way to take a break from the rat race of urban living. Infusing a sense of wellbeing… Read More »
February 28, 2024
Preparing for Spring »
Getting my garden ready for spring is one of the most pleasurable tasks that I can imagine. The anticipation of trying… Read More »
February 28, 2024
The Creature from the Black Lagoon »
Reclaiming Your Pond in Spring Spring is here, and your backyard pond is stirring to life after its long winter rest.… Read More »
February 27, 2024
Best Water Practices »
We need to be mindful of where we're living, and that dry cycles are not unprecedented in our natural history. The… Read More »
February 27, 2024
Cherry Tomato Dreaming… »
Are you longing for the taste of fresh homegrown tomatoes? The fastest way to make that a reality is to grow cherry… Read More »
February 26, 2024
Japanese Maple ‘Wading’ »
In early March Berkeley Hort’s sleeping Japanese maple saplings wake up and push out their fresh spring leaves. The… Read More »
February 25, 2024
Aquatic Plants »
Something for every water garden, from small bowls to large ponds! Water Lilies (Nymphaea) are a true delight; the… Read More »
February 22, 2024
Remember Rosemary »
There’s no mistaking the fragrance of this wonderful herb. It makes sense that it is a member of the Lamiaceae… Read More »
January 27, 2024
Winter Cover Crops »
The benefits of building your soil Seasonal vegetable gardens can quickly deplete your soil of its nutrient… Read More »
January 6, 2024
Bareroot Season: Short & Sweet »
For the best price and selection buy your deciduous fruit trees bareroot in January and February. Bareroot plants… Read More »
January 4, 2024
Vegetables for late winter harvests »
Winter in the Bay Area is obviously not the ideal time to plant beans, tomatoes or squash, but our cool months of… Read More »
January 2, 2024
Planting zones; pushing the limits? »
“The flowers did hang their heads, because they had been dancing all night and were very tired...” … Read More »
December 30, 2023
Kung Hei Fat Choy »
Tuesday, February 1 is the first day of the Chinese New Year. The Lunar New Year celebration lasts 15 days and ends on… Read More »
June 29, 2023
Radishes: The Reliable Year-Round Crop »
Want to grow a zesty snack that can be directly sown in the garden at any time of the year? Radishes are a perfect… Read More »
March 5, 2023
Ode to My Olla »
Pictured: Garden Ollas in Two Sizes I bought an Olla last year to try it out. I placed it in a 20 gallon fabric pot… Read More »
October 25, 2022
Seasonal reminders and nursery news »
These shorter days can be a challenge to serious gardeners. On one hand, this is an excellent time to be cleaning up,… Read More »
October 25, 2022
A word from the General Manager »
My first memories of Berkeley Hort are from around when I was 10 years old. I was given the opportunity to have my… Read More »
October 25, 2022
Deck the halls! »
It’s that most wonderful time of year again, and here at The Hort the garden elves are stocking our shelves with… Read More »
October 25, 2022
The Seed Corner »
Perhaps it’s cold and rainy outside and your garden looks like a giant mud puddle. Maybe you have memories of the… Read More »
October 25, 2022
1922 to 2022 – 100 years at the Hort »
Wow—what a year it has been! I hope you were able to enjoy some of the festivities. There was music, food,… Read More »
August 25, 2022
Hanging out in the sun »
We are often asked for recommendations for trailing, flowering perennials that can handle direct sun, for hanging pots… Read More »
August 24, 2022
Let’s Party »
Our 100th Anniversary Celebration is in full swing, and we have lots going on. The following is a partial list of… Read More »
August 24, 2022
In Memoriam: Victor Yool »
At press time we received this sad news. Vic worked at Berkeley Hort from 1965, when he was a high school student in… Read More »
August 24, 2022
Bird watching at the Spa d’Oiseaux »
I didn’t understand the appeal of bird-watching until I inadvertently created my own backyard bird sanctuary. I… Read More »
August 24, 2022
Dry ideas are good ideas »
My front lawn is dying! Well, we’re letting it happen. When my wife & I purchased our house a couple of years… Read More »
August 24, 2022
Pinch Pot Workshop »
J im and Brenda Atchinson own LickinFlames, an incredible pottery business in Nevada City. You can see some of… Read More »
June 29, 2022
Another Generation »
In this issue I would like to share some of my memories of my son, TC (the current general manager) growing up and… Read More »
June 29, 2022
Savory Slow-roasted Green Beans »
This is one of my favorite summer recipes. It’s a great addition to any brunch, barbecue or nice dinner. Hopefully… Read More »
May 1, 2022
Learning about Plants »
Growing up in a family of plantsmen and horticulturists gave me the inspiration to follow in their footsteps. I once… Read More »
May 1, 2022
A Bed of Kale with Puffy Cheese Pillows »
One of my friends here at The Hort gifted me with an armload of tender, just-picked Lacinato Kale. Oh, happy day,… Read More »
May 1, 2022
The Smells of Summer »
Childhood garden memories can have a strong influence on our direction later in life. For me, the family vegetable… Read More »
May 1, 2022
Transitions »
One half-century ago I was in high school and on a mission to buy my first car. It ended up being a well-used British… Read More »
February 25, 2022
The Canine Conundrum »
Last year, as did so many other people, I adopted a puppy. Over one year of COVID shutdown meant more time at home and… Read More »
February 25, 2022
From 0 to 67 in 1.5 »
A year and a half ago, when I started working at Berkeley Hort, I had zero houseplants. I didn’t understand the… Read More »
February 25, 2022
The Rock »
Children visiting the nursery sometimes discover an interesting spot that many adults miss, namely the large red rock… Read More »
December 30, 2021
Ready, Set, Go! »
This year marks our 100th Anniversary and we have lots of things planned. You have waited patiently. We have been… Read More »
December 30, 2021
Fescue to the rescue! »
Seeds of native grasses prevent bank failures Hillside gardeners do your part to stabilize the banks—sow seed of… Read More »
December 30, 2021
Back to organic! »
Berkeley Hort has been selling bare-root strawberries for many years now. Shortly after being hired in 2005, I was… Read More »
October 27, 2021
Help us celebrate our 100th Anniversary »
In 1997 this newsletter promised we’d have a grand celebration in 25 years. I remember clearly, saying that it would… Read More »
October 27, 2021
Supply chain report from the Holiday Elf »
“Fast away the old year passes”: 2022 calendars are here! Garland and wreaths of Douglas Fir, and wreaths… Read More »
October 27, 2021
The Patio Pond »
An enduring attraction here at Berkeley Hort is the Koi Pond that runs along one side of the Aquatic Plants section.… Read More »
August 25, 2021
Miscellaneous Ramblings »
Miscellaneous Ramblings from a semi-retired horticulturist The past 18 months have me wondering if we will ever get… Read More »
August 25, 2021
The Lazy Gardener »
Earthworks facilitate passive irrigation Earthworks are strategically designed ways of shaping the earth to slow… Read More »
June 30, 2021
Plan for bulbs to return »
A s a footnote to Helen’s article, we want to remind you that Flower Bulbs that hail from Mediterranean climate… Read More »
June 30, 2021
Put your garden on a Mediterranean diet »
With the summer months upon us, it’s clear those of us in California are living in a dry summer/wet winter climate.… Read More »
June 30, 2021
Garden Myths & Misconceptions (shattered) »
ll of the following are things I’ve learned. Some exceptions can be found, but they are all generally false… Read More »
April 28, 2021
Gardening in Summer-Dry Climates »
W e were slightly panicky when we learned that two classic plant-selection references had gone out of print: East… Read More »
April 28, 2021
Vegetable Seedling Spacing »
One of the questions we are most often asked is, “How far apart should I plant these vegetable seedlings?” There… Read More »
April 28, 2021
Looking Ahead »
Compared to the slow, tedious year of 2020, this first half of 2021 seems to have flown by. We are extremely grateful… Read More »
February 25, 2021
Making My Garden My Own »
I’m stoked about 2021! With the prospect (sometime this year) of having visitors, to hangout in-person, and to share… Read More »
February 25, 2021
Bamboozled? »
Running bamboos can exhibit “take-over-the-world” growth habit that leads to the fear (and occasional hysteria)… Read More »
December 29, 2020
Happy New Year, Hope & Celebration »
Woo hoo! It’s a new year and there is so much to be hopeful for. Days are getting longer, a COVID-19 vaccine is… Read More »
December 29, 2020
Contemplating Navels »
(and other Citrus in the event of a frost*) Although uncommon, local winter temperatures do occasionally drop… Read More »
December 29, 2020
Food for Thought »
The term ‘seasonal’ produce takes on new meaning for Bay Area gardeners. In early December, I was enjoying a salad… Read More »
December 29, 2020
Radishes: The Reliable Year-Round Crop »
Want to grow a zesty snack that can be directly sown in the garden at any time of the year? Radishes are a… Read More »
December 29, 2020
Staff’s 2021 New Year’s Resolution »
Kat ~ “Grow Ranunculus and other flowers for cutting in the growing space at my new rental.” Priska ~ … Read More »
December 29, 2020
Rose Pruning For Hesitant Beginners »
1. WHEN to prune: The best time to prune most roses in the Bay Area is in January, when they should be dormant. Many… Read More »
October 30, 2020
Speed Bumps, Hurdles, and Walls »
My dream garden is one where the sun shines every day but the plants get ample water. It is one where seeds germinate… Read More »
October 30, 2020
Brother buzz »
Concerned about dwindling numbers of urban bees? Are you harvesting fewer fruits and vegetables because of a lack of… Read More »
October 30, 2020
Winter cover crops »
The benefits of building your soil Seasonal vegetable gardens can quickly deplete your soil of its nutrient… Read More »
October 30, 2020
Where do tulips come from? »
Many people say; “from Holland.” Between 1634 and 1637, speculation in tulip bulbs was the cause of Holland’s… Read More »
October 30, 2020
Dr. Chlorophyll »
ADVICE FOR THE HORTICULTURALLY HARASSED “A conscience is what hurts when all your other parts feel… Read More »
October 30, 2020
DIY seed collections »
Seeds are the ultimate encapsulation of hope. They hold the promise of future growth. I don’t know about you, but… Read More »
October 12, 2020
Mulch Ado About Some Things »
Visitors to Berkeley Hort are sometimes confused by the array of mulches, soil amendments, manures and container mixes… Read More »
August 28, 2020
What’s in a name? »
Common names for plants can vary from one region to another, or from one culture to another. In school we learn to use… Read More »
August 28, 2020
Plant the peas please! »
Fall is the best time to plant peas. If you plant pea seeds or seedlings in October/November, the plant tops will… Read More »
August 28, 2020
‘Make a Melica great again!’ »
Early November is a great time to sow seed for California native grasses like Melica californica and Melica torreyana,… Read More »
August 28, 2020
A Bulb Reminder »
Everyone knows about planting bulbs for spring flowers, though they often don’t remember until they actually see a… Read More »
August 28, 2020
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed (From the dustbin; this one had some religious overtones, but useful for… Read More »
August 28, 2020
Tropical Garden »
On your next visit, take a walk over to our side courtyard to see the tropical border. This garden is a mixture of… Read More »
June 30, 2020
Living in Unsettled Times »
“We all live under the same sky, but we don’t all have the same horizon.” —Konrad… Read More »
June 30, 2020
Sage Advice »
Which genus of plants is most important to California gardeners? My vote is for Salvia, the common sage. Not so much… Read More »
June 30, 2020
Living with Roses »
T his is the time of year when the roses have come into their full glory. I see them showing off all over Berkeley,… Read More »
June 30, 2020
Edible Patio Gardening »
So you’ve run out of space to plant more vegetables & herbs in your garden. Or, like a lot of us folks in the… Read More »
June 30, 2020
Creating a Miniature Water Garden »
Are you limited by small space? Planning to move in the near future? Intrigued by water but not ready to commit to a… Read More »
June 30, 2020
Bearded Iris Tips »
Rhizomes available in August. Though they come in a great array of colors and sizes, all bearded Irises want good… Read More »
April 30, 2020
We miss you! »
As I write this, looking out of my office window at the nursery I see many plants. Beautiful plants with new leaves… Read More »
February 28, 2020
Personal Pleasure Plants »
For me, very little time goes into planning the spring garden. I wake up one morning, the sun is shining, the birds… Read More »
February 28, 2020
Oven Roasted Asparagus »
with Garlic, Fresh Herbs & Lemon This is one of my favorite recipes to add as a side dish to any meal. Aside… Read More »
February 28, 2020
Growing Tomatoes »
Growing tomato plants from seed can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and they are relatively easily to grow.… Read More »
February 28, 2020
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed Dr. C. was a regular writer and hortipersonality at BHN for many years… Read More »
December 28, 2019
Winter Garden Thoughts »
Feeling crowded? Closed in? Too much noise? Work pressures? Distractions? A garden can be the perfect antidote to… Read More »
December 28, 2019
Ring in the New Year »
Give your houseplants ‘The Spa Treatment’ Indoor plants provide a great sense of calm and pleasure in our homes… Read More »
December 28, 2019
Dialing for Dahlias »
Much like potatoes in appearance, the tubers of these Central American perennials will soon be transformed into… Read More »
October 30, 2019
Stay in Touch with your Garden »
These shorter days can be a real challenge to serious gardeners. On one hand this is an excellent time to be cleaning… Read More »
October 30, 2019
Fruit Trees & Berries »
Learning from the past, planning for the future It's that time of year again to start planning to add fruits to your… Read More »
October 30, 2019
Don’t Wait until Spring »
Our “fall collections” of Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Camellias, Japanese Maples and Magnolias have arrived during the… Read More »
October 30, 2019
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed Dr. C. was a regular writer and hortipersonality at BHN for many years until… Read More »
August 29, 2019
A Season of Transitions »
Seasonal norms are being tossed out, but we still base most of our garden plans on historical data. For outdoor… Read More »
August 29, 2019
Plan for Great Fall Fruits! »
Later, in mid-November we will have a huge selection of berries and fruit trees. These are some of the fruits that we… Read More »
August 29, 2019
Soil Saving »
Protect your investment It goes without saying that soil which is covered by living plants absorbs and holds water… Read More »
August 29, 2019
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed Our thought for the day: "Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons of the… Read More »
August 29, 2019
Bring the Garden Inside »
During these long days of light it's hard to remember the short and gloomy days after the New Year. Think ahead and… Read More »
August 29, 2019
Bulb Reminder »
Everyone knows about planting bulbs in fall for spring flowers, though they often don't remember until they actually… Read More »
June 24, 2019
Who was George Budgen? »
This article was reprinted from the Jan. 1973 issue of The California Hort. Society Journal "It is said that a… Read More »
June 24, 2019
For the Kids »
About 12 years ago when I first started buying small fruits for the nursery, I planted a few new varieties of… Read More »
June 24, 2019
Bearded Irises »
Would you like some easy spring color in your garden? August can be the perfect time to plan and plant for that color.… Read More »
June 24, 2019
Succession Planting »
Farmers spend a lot of time and effort planning the timing of their crops to be able to maximize bountiful high quality… Read More »
June 24, 2019
Seeds for the Season »
A s summer peaks we find ourselves transitioning from spring to fall vegetables. Now is the time to finish planting… Read More »
April 30, 2019
Living Small »
As my grandma used to say, “Good things come in small packages”. And with this thought I launch into the realm of… Read More »
April 30, 2019
Growing Color »
Until only 130 years ago all textiles, clothing and leather were colored with natural dyes. The first synthetic color… Read More »
April 30, 2019
Japanese Maples »
The Wig Maple (Acer palmatum ‘Katsura’) is among the first Japanese Maples to wake up as winter ends (some call it… Read More »
April 30, 2019
Garden Furniture »
Summertime is quickly approaching. It’s time for picnics and lounging in the backyard. Berkeley Hort is carrying… Read More »
April 30, 2019
‘Nips in the bud: blooming Nepeta! »
This short article on catnips is dedicated to all felines, who are very fond of flowering Nepeta. We are encouraging… Read More »
April 30, 2019
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed Dr. C. was a regular writer and hortipersonality at BHN for many years until… Read More »
April 30, 2019
Cultivators for Cultivators »
For any parent who gardens, consider a gift this Mother’s Day or Father’s Day (May 12, June 16) of the… Read More »
February 27, 2019
It’s a Syn »
Even in retirement I still enjoy composing the 4 by 5 inch sign cards that you see on groups of plants when you visit… Read More »
December 27, 2018
Trees Capture Carbon »
A neighbor recently asked which trees he should plant to act as carbon sinks. Now, for those readers who don’t… Read More »
December 27, 2018
Food for Thought »
The term ‘seasonal’ produce takes on new meaning for Bay Area gardeners. In early December I was enjoying a salad… Read More »
December 27, 2018
Apricots: Fruits on ‘the 4th’ »
One of the fruits that I wait for every summer just happens to ripen right around the Fourth of July. To me, apricots… Read More »
December 27, 2018
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed Dr. C. was a regular writer and hortipersonality at BHN for many years until… Read More »
December 27, 2018
Rhododendrons for the Bay Area Garden »
Imagine your garden filled with large trusses of brilliantly-hued flowers framed in large shiny and richly green… Read More »
October 29, 2018
Winter Gardening • Winter Reading »
For those of us who truly enjoy gardening, this season of shortening days may seem frustrating. Each day, by the time… Read More »
October 29, 2018
Don’t Leaf them by the Curb! »
While building your soil is a year-round task, fall is the time to score some free ingredients. As many broadleaf… Read More »
October 29, 2018
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed Dr. C. was a regular writer and hortipersonality at BHN for many years until… Read More »
October 29, 2018
Pot Selection: an artist’s view »
Whether you are trying to pick the right pot for a plant or the right plant for a pot, selecting the right look can… Read More »
August 28, 2018
The Rock »
Kids visiting Berkeley Hort sometimes discover an interesting spot that many adults miss—the big rock at the… Read More »
August 28, 2018
Planting for Beneficial Insects »
Attracting Pollinators & Predators Creating a balanced insect community in your garden is one of the most… Read More »
August 28, 2018
Bulb Reminder »
Everyone knows about planting bulbs for spring flowers, though they often don't remember until they actually see a host… Read More »
June 29, 2018
“How I Spent my Summer Vacation” »
by anonymous gardener We’re jumping the gun on this premise in order to make a point. What you do over the next… Read More »
June 29, 2018
On the Forest Floor »
During the first weekend in June a group of Berkeley Hort staff went on a camping trip to Dodge Ridge (elevation 7,000… Read More »
June 29, 2018
Edible Patio Gardening »
So you’ve run out of space to plant more vegetables & herbs in your garden. Or, like a lot of us folks in the… Read More »
June 29, 2018
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed Dr. C. was a regular writer and hortipersonality at BHN for many years until… Read More »
June 29, 2018
Aromatherapy in a Pot »
Scented geranium Like sniffing the aroma of freshly roasted coffee, or a salty sea breeze, breathing the perfume of a… Read More »
June 29, 2018
For the Kids »
You’ve probably seen the larger potted plants scattered around the nursery that contain an abundance of ripe… Read More »
April 27, 2018
Foliage Matters »
When it comes to gardens most of us first think in terms of flowers. We slow down and smell them, we cut them for… Read More »
April 27, 2018
From the Worm Bin »
Now that spring is here, the red wiggler worms (Eisenia fetida) are happy again. They do not enjoy wet, cold… Read More »
April 27, 2018
Woven Wonders »
Made in Ghana and Morocco, you may have noticed the beautiful straw baskets that we started carrying in 2012. We were… Read More »
April 27, 2018
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Some things we've learned Dr. C. was a regular writer and hortipersonality at BHN for many years until his retirement… Read More »
February 26, 2018
Going to the Pots »
King Louis XIV was not the first person to experiment with container gardening, but he certainly had the means. His… Read More »
February 26, 2018
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed “Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they… Read More »
December 20, 2017
Gardening for the Birds »
There once was a time when I watched bird enthusiasts and asked myself, “What could possibly be so interesting that… Read More »
October 31, 2017
California gardening »
California gardening can be a special treat. Many of us who grew up here take it for granted, but unless you live in… Read More »
October 31, 2017
Fall Fluorescence: Japanese Maples »
Like a large mixed flock of migratory birds, hundreds of young Japanese Maples, mostly varieties of Acer palmatum, A.… Read More »
October 31, 2017
Boughs of festive foliage »
Fir garland, wreaths, mistletoe, orchids, poinsettias, ivy, amaryllis, cyclamen and other holiday greenery will be in… Read More »
October 31, 2017
Best Bug Practices »
Keeping a good balance between pest and predator insects is the key to a lower maintenance and pesticide-free garden.… Read More »
October 31, 2017
Reserve Your Bareroot Fruit Trees Now »
For a short period of time, January through March, we offer deciduous fruit trees “bareroot”. Bareroot season is… Read More »
October 31, 2017
Small Fruits »
To complement our great selection of bareroot fruit trees every January, we also bring in a wide assortment of small… Read More »
October 31, 2017
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed Dr. C. was a regular writer and hortipersonality at BHN for many years until… Read More »
August 31, 2017
Tree Considerations »
“I speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues.” —The Lorax, by Dr. Seuss For me it’s hard to imagine… Read More »
August 31, 2017
Hedge Fundamentals »
In the lingo of finance, a hedge has nothing to do with greenery, at least not the greenery that can photosynthesize.… Read More »
August 31, 2017
Planting BULBS: bury them alive! »
Although now may not be the best time to plant them, there are some very good reasons to tiptoe to the nursery tout de… Read More »
June 26, 2017
Any excuse for a party… »
Five years from now we’ll have a major celebration, but why wait until then? We are getting warmed-up now. As they… Read More »
June 26, 2017
Bearded Iris Tips »
Rhizomes available in August Though they come in a great array of colors and sizes, all bearded Irises want good… Read More »
June 26, 2017
Thoughts from the Worm Bin »
I have to admit—I love our worms. I enjoy checking on them, feeding them and trying to understand what makes them… Read More »
June 26, 2017
Staff Picks »
In each issue we try to feature some of the staff favorites. This time the staff talks about a garden tool that they… Read More »
June 26, 2017
Radishes: The Reliable Year-Round Crop »
Want to grow a zesty snack that can be directly sown in the garden at any time of the year? Radishes are a perfect… Read More »
June 26, 2017
Living with Roses »
This is the time of year when the roses have come into their full glory. We see them showing off all over Berkeley,… Read More »
June 26, 2017
Save the Dates »
Summer + Fall Events at Berkeley Hort Mark your calendars and make plans to join us in August, September, and October… Read More »
April 28, 2017
Living Small »
“Good things come in small packages,” as my grandma Budgen used to say—and with this thought I launch into the… Read More »
April 28, 2017
Cultivators for Cultivators »
For any parent in your life who gardens, consider a gift this Mother’s or Father’s Day (May 14th, June 18th) of one… Read More »
April 28, 2017
95th Anniversary »
Spring has sprung here at Berkeley Hort, and our 95th Anniversary is officially underway! If you’ve missed out so… Read More »
April 28, 2017
Thinkin’ of Summer »
Father’s Day, graduation ceremonies, vacations, fun in the water, and backyard barbecues are right around the corner.… Read More »
April 28, 2017
The Squash Family: Sex Ed 101 »
Sometimes customers report that they have lovely lush squash or cucumber plants, but they get a small harvest. They say… Read More »
April 28, 2017
Red Wiggler Worms »
Looking for a way to recycle your fruit & vegetable scraps? Berkeley Hort is now carrying Can-O-Worms Composter.… Read More »
February 28, 2017
95th Anniversary »
If you haven’t heard the news, Berkeley Hort turns 95 this year. We’ll be throwing a party this fall on two… Read More »
February 28, 2017
California Wildflower Website & Hotline »
T hanks to a wetter than normal winter, this spring promises to be one of the best for California wildflowers in many… Read More »
February 28, 2017
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed The only things worth learning are the things you learn after you know it… Read More »
December 26, 2016
Debunking Gardening Myths »
Learning about plants enriches our lives, regardless of age, ethnicity or political leaning. Growing up in a family of… Read More »
December 26, 2016
What does Bee Friendly mean? »
When we began developing our Bee Friendly program in 2012 we knew it would be a slow process. Our goal was to protect… Read More »
December 26, 2016
Celebrating 95 years 1922-2017 »
We hope you enjoy the new look of our website with its user-friendly platform. If you get the paper version, you’ll… Read More »
December 26, 2016
Overheard at the Grand Lake Farmers Market »
Shopper to vendor of foraged wild mushrooms and berries: “How can you tell which wild berries or mushrooms are safe… Read More »
December 26, 2016
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed DEAR DR. CHLOROPHYLL A rose by any other name might smell as sweet and all… Read More »
October 26, 2016
‘Tis the Season for Citrus »
Talk about plants with a history…over eight hundred years ago Chinese agriculturists described dozens of varieties of… Read More »
October 26, 2016
The Seed Corner »
Perhaps it’s cold and rainy outside and your garden looks like a giant mud puddle. Maybe you have memories of the… Read More »
October 25, 2016
The Blueberry: An American Native »
Blueberries of the genus Vaccinium are truly a Native American species. These plants are believed to be one of the… Read More »
October 25, 2016
Rose Shipment »
We are expecting a shipment of dormant roses (Tops in Pots) during the first week in December. These twenty varieties… Read More »
October 24, 2016
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the Horticulturally Harassed For That Special Person on Your Holiday Gift List Some gardening books that… Read More »
October 12, 2016
Bareroot Berries & Fruit Trees »
Brrrrrrrr! On these cold winter days who’s thinking about summer harvests? Actually, now is a great time to plan for… Read More »
October 12, 2016
Solar Lanterns »
As the days get shorter, do you find you need a little light in your life? Berkeley Horticultural Nursery sells solar… Read More »
July 1, 2016
Salvia, the common sage »
Which genus of plants is most significant to California gardeners? My vote is for Salvia, the common sage. Not so much… Read More »
July 1, 2016
Bearded Iris: Growing Tips »
Rhizomes available in August Though they come in a great array of colors and sizes, all bearded Irises want good… Read More »
April 30, 2016
The Tomato »
The tomato (Lycopersicon lycopersicum) is a short-lived perennial that we treat as an annual. It originated in the… Read More »
April 30, 2016
Tomato Growing Tips »
Watering your Tomatoes Have you ever had tomatoes that were watery, mealy and bland flavored? Watering your tomatoes… Read More »
April 30, 2016
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the horticulturally harassed The two most dangerous words to matrimony: “Charge it.” The three most… Read More »
February 29, 2016
As the spring equinox comes »
If you are like me, very little time goes into the planning and preparation for your spring garden. I wake up one… Read More »
February 29, 2016
Consider Clematis »
Most Clematis are lovely vining plants. Often large flowered and sometimes fragrant, they are easy to fit into just… Read More »
February 29, 2016
Wisteria wakes up »
In winter, wisteria is not at its most glamorous—the vines are leafless gray ropes, trapeze wires for squirrels.… Read More »
October 31, 2015
Speed Bumps, Hurdles, and Walls »
My dream garden is one where the sun shines every day but the plants get ample water. It is one where seeds germinate… Read More »
October 31, 2015
This just in: Dormant Fruit Trees »
For a short time in January and February we offer deciduous fruit trees “bareroot”. Bareroot season is necessarily… Read More »
October 31, 2015
got citrus? »
If so, we’d like to hear what kinds you’re growing and under what conditions (soil, moisture, temperature,… Read More »
October 31, 2015
Seed Corner »
It has cooled down out in the garden, but it’s not too late to give something back by planting a cover crop. Cover… Read More »
October 31, 2015
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Just for chuckles ~ some vintage “I always wanted to be the last guy on earth, just to see if all those women were… Read More »
August 31, 2015
Bring It On »
I commend those of you who have taken our drought seriously and changed the way you garden. Judging from my… Read More »
August 31, 2015
Plan for Great Fall Fruits! »
Later, in November, we will have a huge selection of berries and fruit trees from Dave Wilson Nursery. These are some… Read More »
August 31, 2015
Ferns for the Low Water Garden »
Ferns are elegant foliage plants that capture the eye without the aid of flowers. They are shade-loving, are generally… Read More »
August 30, 2015
Silver Plants Cool? »
Could plants with silver leaves promote global cooling? That’s what scientists at the University of Bristol seem to… Read More »
June 30, 2015
Terrariums »
A terrarium is a self-contained world for plants that takes very little water or maintenance. With California’s… Read More »
June 30, 2015
Seed Corner »
Seeds for the Season As summer peaks we find ourselves transitioning from spring to fall vegetables. Now is the time… Read More »
June 30, 2015
The Cape Primrose »
Native to South Africa, Cape primroses (Streptocarpus spp.) are in the Gesneriad family. These species belong to one of… Read More »
April 30, 2015
Garden Memories »
Childhood garden memories can have a strong influence on our direction later in life. For me, the family vegetable plot… Read More »
April 30, 2015
Our New Dry Department »
When our customers ask, “where are your drought tolerant plants?” we explain our system for keeping them in their… Read More »
April 30, 2015
‘Nips in the bud: blooming Nepeta! »
This short article on catnips is dedicated to our cat in residence Lulu, who is very fond of flowering Nepeta. To mark… Read More »
April 30, 2015
Cultivators for Cultivators »
For any parent in your life who gardens, consider a gift this Mother’s or Father’s Day of one of the most… Read More »
April 30, 2015
Hats Hats Hats »
I personally do not like to wear hats. Don’t ask why. When I venture out, I always see people with hats on, and they… Read More »
April 30, 2015
Seed Corner »
Let’s eat weeds! One person’s weed is another person’s salad garnish. Berkeley Hort carries many greens that can… Read More »
April 30, 2015
Japanese Maples »
(Acer palmatum) The Wig Maple is among the first cultivars of Acer palmatum to show signs of life as winter ends.… Read More »
April 30, 2015
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the horticulturally harassed “Change is what makes the world go round. Not love—love only keeps it… Read More »
February 28, 2015
Drought Tolerant Fare »
It might take another forty days and forty nights of rain to approximate our seasonal normal, but I’m not sure about… Read More »
February 28, 2015
Fun with Food »
Sometimes starting a new Vegetable garden or adding edibles to your landscape for the first time can be a little… Read More »
February 28, 2015
Seed Corner »
Growing Tomatoes Growing tomato plants from seed can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and tomato seeds are… Read More »
February 28, 2015
The Rock »
Children visiting the nursery sometimes discover an interesting spot that many adults miss, namely the large red rock… Read More »
February 28, 2015
Dr. Chlorophyll »
Advice for the horticulturally harassed “Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I’m… Read More »