Suncoast Gardening: Gardening terms explained

Gardening terms -- or “gardenspeak,” as I like to call it -- are phrases people like me in the plant business use all the time and yet many folks don’t know their true meanings.

Gardening with Laurie: It's time to start preparing for spring gardens

Now is the time to plan the spring landscape, so ask yourself some questions. Are there landscape changes you wish to make this season? Are their existing plants that need to be relocated to better suited areas? Are there areas in the landscape that do not drain well? Are some trees growing larger than anticipated? Are you ready for more flowerbeds or other gardens? Are you ready to do away with ...

ANN LOVEJOY | Gardening tips for January

Though the days are still short, the slack tide of the year is turning and spring is drawing near. Our plants respond to the return of the light with increasing root production, emerging new shoots and swelling buds.

Home & Garden events and more: Mark these on your calendar

From green living to smarter gardening, there will be plenty of opportunities to learn and enjoy our Northern California homes and gardens in 2012. Several groups still are finalizing dates and details. For news and updates on local flower shows, home and garden tours or other events, check your Home & Garden section each Saturday.

Ruth's Tips: Changes in the garden after 40 years

Exhibits opened to the public in 1993.