Question from Donna: I live in Pasadena. I have a built in bbq (facing west) and need to plant a tree near it (no fire concern as not that near) for shade. I want a tree that is pretty, NOT MESSY, small, non invasive roots, does not shed seeds. If the tree sheds everything in a […]

Question from Dave: We’re planning on planting Mexican sage in a full sun area in zone 24. Can you suggest a plant with similar hardiness characteristics that has a red flower or a white flower? Answer from Pat: In my opinion the plant that looks best next to Mexican sage (Salvia leucantha) is Copper Canyon […]

Question from Amira: Hello Pat, I live in La Mesa, CA, and our neighbors have two massive (70-80 ft) Torrey Pines dangerously leaning on our house. We have a letter from a botanist claiming the trees are a hazard to our home, as well as a nuisannce to our property with thousands of pine cones […]

Question from Gayleen: There are a couple of palm trees growing in my patio on their own. I did not plant them. I know nothing about gardening, planting, etc. They have been thriving on their own without any care. Now I have received a letter from my homeowner’s association stating that I must remove them […]

Question from Kris: The City is putting in a street tree in the 4ft parkway in front of my home.  They gave me a list of approved trees but my concern is potential root damage, drought tolerance, and excessive litter.  Which tree do you recommend: Acacia baileyana, Agonis flexuosa “after dark”, Malaleuca linariifolia, Geijera parvifloria, […]