Water shortages along with energy crises and other realities of modern living have taught us valuable lessons about conserving our priceless resources. And in our gardens, we Californians have pioneered sustainable approaches that are beautiful as well as more appropriate to our Mediterranean climate. Visit a nursery this month, and you’ll… more
Home & Garden
Montecito Land Listings on Toro Canyon
Toro Canyon Estate Site with Plans – Nearly Ready to Build ~ 838 Toro Canyon Road ~ Montecito Offered at $1,200,000 Five ridge-top acres in the prime Toro Canyon estate area surrounded by gracious mountains and broad ocean and Harbor views. Stunning Contemporary Design for this special site: walls of windows, LEED… more
Build Your Own Cut Flower Garden – Year Round in Santa Barbara
Flower farmer Erin Benzakein shows us how to grow fresh seasonal flowers the most satisfying way: by seed Spring is coming in a few months, and with it countless ways to enjoy flowers in all their glory. Could this be the year you start a cutting garden? Farmer-florist Erin Benzakein points the way… more
Prepare your home for the upcoming rain season
How To: Prep Your House For the Rain Season Homeowners in CA hit hard by last winter’s epic drenching so far may be rejoicing at the momentary reprieve from the longstanding years of drought — This upcoming season could be similar to last, or even more precipitation. How can you use this break from the rainfall to… more
Fall & Winter Home Maintence Checklist
Fall and Winter Home Maintenance Checklist 15 things for you (or the handyman) to tackle before winter sets in. Now that fall is officially here, it’s time to prepare your home for cold weather. These steps, most of which you can do yourself, will lower your utility bills and protect your investment. 1…. more