With its mild climate and diverse plant life, California has a rich tradition of garden design.  From Spanish-influenced mission gardens, to estate gardens of the 1920s and modern residential landscapes by Thomas Church and Garrett Eckbo, there is a stunning variety to study and experience. I recently visited Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens...Read More

It seemed like a hopeful way to start the new year: Two years ago, my family and I planted a meadow in our front yard. No longer a play space for our children, the lawn had outgrown its usefulness.  After a debate between my husband and me about the merits of gravel and native shrubs...Read More

I recently had a chance to visit the newly opened northern parklands in London’s Olympic Park.  My dad was from East London where the park is located, so it was uplifting to hear how this once derelict, 400-acre site is aiming to ecologically and economically redevelop this part of London, which has historically been isolated...Read More

Though historically foresaken, the strip of land between the street and the sidewalk is enjoying a moment in the sun (no pun intended).  Last month, Los Angeles residents won the right to plant vegetables in their parkways, as the city council temporarily waived an outdated ban on edibles in the public right of way. And...Read More

More than a humble vegetable plot, a potager is both beautiful and productive. The loveliest such kitchen garden I have ever seen is that of the late British gardener, Rosemary Verey. I visited the garden at Barnsley House after Ms. Verey’s death, when it was in the process of being converted into a boutique hotel....Read More