Meg McConahey

2 weeks ago | pressdemocrat.com | Meg McConahey

Anderson took care to use and reuse materials wisely. Boards from an old back fence were cut and repurposed into a picket fence that separates the front yard from the sidewalk. Bricks from a crumbling kitchen fireplace were used to make a patio in the back. Old objects like ger great-grandmother’s two cast iron kettles, used in the 19th century to render lard and make soap, have found a new purpose as planters. She initially planted bunch grass as an alternative lawn in front.

2 weeks ago | pressdemocrat.com | Meg McConahey

For one day up to nine custom designed homes in the iconic coastal enclave of The Sea Ranch will open their front doors to visitors. The North Coast Architectural Tour & Wine Tasting Fundraiser May 10 is a self-guided ticket to visit a variety of homes that exhibit the unique style of The Sea Ranch, renowned for its ethos of “living lightly on the land” as its original master planner Lawrence Halprin said.

2 weeks ago | pressdemocrat.com | Meg McConahey

Bring your best blooms or come and buy a few at the annual John Druecker Memorial Rhododendron Show, May 3-4. The North Coast has long been known as rhodie country and the juried show at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is one of the largest of its kind, typically drawing more than 800 entries that fill the exhibition tent with color and fragrance.

2 weeks ago | pressdemocrat.com | Meg McConahey

Question: I was recently gifted a Venus fly trap plant and would like to know what other carnivorous plants are available. Also, do you have any tips on their care and maintenance? Answer: Yes! Venus fly traps are a fun and fascinating plant to grow and care for. There are a few other carnivorous plants that can also be grown by home gardeners. With a bit of knowledge about their needs, they can be a fun addition to your plant collection.

2 weeks ago | pressdemocrat.com | Meg McConahey

In Sonoma County, April 15 is not only tax day. For gardeners, the date marks freedom from the fear of frost. After surpassing the “get ready” and “get set” stages, it’s finally OK to go. The soil is slowly warming, creating a welcoming environment for those new ornamentals and veggie starts you’ve been itching to get into the ground. And, while nature can always deliver a cold surprise, it’s not likely to freeze.