Planting & Care Tips

Boron is a mineral that, in small quantities, is important for healthy plant growth, but becomes dangerous in higher concentrations. Boron can be present in ground water and soil at the level of 0.5 to 1.0 parts per million and not cause any undue stress on plants in the area. When boron levels reach above 1.0 parts per million (ppm), trees and shrubs that are not tolerant of these conditions will begin showing signs of stress.

For many plants, this expresses itself as a build-up of boron in the leaves. Because it takes time for the concentration to reach dangerous levels within the plant, symptoms are first seen in the oldest leaves....

Deer Resistant Plants

It is a common challenge in many localities to find a balance between attractive, hardy landscapes and plantings that deer won't annihilate. Some neighborhoods, such as Oakmont, are notorious for their brazen deer. When asked for plant options in these cases, we refer to the Western Garden book for their list of Deer Resistant plants however our light-hearted follow up statement is that "the deer don't read this list".

There is no such thing as a true deer-proof plant. During drought or periods of scarcity, deer can be driven to eat even the most unappetizing selections in your yard. Likewise, nothing is off...