"Lawns are monocultures that contrast with nature’s biodiversity, which supports both native habitat plants and wildlife," writes Tom Karwin. "For example, we have often cited the work of entomologist Doug Tallamy, who has strongly advocated native plants as components in the web life of birds. So, for both water conversation and environmental preservation, good practice in landscaping includes lawn replacement with drought-tolerant plants, and preferably plants that are locally native."
"California’s legislative session closed recently. As always, the state’s lawmakers addressed a range of issues and approved significant actions that are now ready for the governor’s actions," writes Tom Karwin. "Today’s topic focuses on two bills that relate to gardening: AB 1572 and AB 1573, both introduced by Assemblymember Laura Friedman."
"In May 2023, the Assembly passed Assembly Bill 1573, a bill introduced by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Burbank) aimed at replacing non-functional turf with water-conserving California native plants for commercial and public landscaping projects," Tom Karwin writes. "AB 1573 would be the first bill of its kind to create a requirement for the use of California native plants. "
"My much-appreciated gardener has taken a few days off for a trip to Yosemite, giving me time to review the issues in the garden that are awaiting her return," writes Tom Karwin. "Gardens always have issues needing maintenance. Today’s column focuses on some of the issues I spotted for next week’s work, followed by suggestions of ways to review a garden."
"General-purpose digital tools for writing, planning, scheduling, and budgeting are also useful for pursuing garden projects on the desktop, laptop, or smartphone," writes Tom Karwin. "The recent, rapid emergence of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has opened new digital resources designed for gardeners."