The Stanislaus Sprout

 Summer in the Central Valley is hot, hot, hot. As I try to stay cool during the relentless heat, my thoughts turn to fall, one of my favorite times of year. Fall brings with it the welcome cooler weather, the beauty of the turning leaves and thoughts of pumpkins, spiced cider, and cuddling up in my…

 California is often called the “Golden State” because of its Gold Rush history, the golden California poppy (our state flower) which can cover the foothills and valleys in the spring months, and the golden-brown colors the state’s wild grasses become during the summer months. Many people are not aware…

 Houseplants can add beauty and a sense of well-being to any indoor space. Studies from the National Institute of Consumer Horticulture (NICH) show that plants help clean air indoors, and that being around plants helps raise productivity, boost creativity, lower stress hormones, accelerate healing, and…

 Houseplants are amazing! They brighten up your home and bring nature indoors. But sometimes, a pest makes an appearance. Enter the pesky little fungus gnat. Fungus gnats (Orfelia and Bradysia species) can be quite a nuisance. These dark, tiny (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) almost delicate-looking flies…

 I’m always delighted to see the first dragonflies of the summer zipping through my garden. Dragonflies are such magical creatures with their dazzling aerobatics, vibrant colors, and wings shimmering in the sunlight. These fascinating insects are easily recognized by their long, slender bodies and…