The ginger plant (Zingiber officinale) has been cultivated in Southeast Asia for over 3,000 years. It was one of the first spices exported to Europe through trade, prized for its flavor and medicinal uses. Candied ginger was a popular sweet in Europe from the 13th to...
In Greek mythology, Narcissus fell deeply in love with his reflection. Consumed by longing, he wasted away and died by the water’s edge. Such a sad story. Everyone knows a Narcissus or two. You’ll be glad to know that the Narcissus in your SoCal garden...
Your driveway takes a beating. Sun, rain, oil spills, and vehicle traffic wear down the asphalt surface, leading to cracks, fading, and deterioration. In Southern California, an asphalt driveway with basic installation and minimal upkeep lasts about 15 years. A...
What do frogs and ranunculus have in common? Probably more than you realize. The name Ranunculus comes from the Latin “rana,” or frog, because many species grow in moist areas where frogs live. Can this showy flower flourish in Southern California’s...
If you drill, saw, or glue, chances are you’ll need a clamp to hold things steady. The simple iron clamping devices of medieval forges have morphed into more than 50 specialized types, each engineered for different purposes. The humble C-clamp traces its roots...