Taming Wildflowers

The Theodore Payne Foundation has just published its long-awaited book on growing California wildflowers. The foundation is a primary source of seed (and native plants), and the author, Kevin Connelly, is one of the few to have successfully grown wildflowers in gardens--including some spectacular displays at the Earthside Nature Center (see item below).

Gardeners will appreciate this book because it is full of firsthand information--on dealing with weeds, preparing soil, sowing seed, gophers, the best seasons and the best choices. Some skill and work are involved, though the author does give a qualified yes to the question “Is it possible to grow wildflowers by simply sowing seed in a place dominated by weeds?” The Gardener’s Guide to California Wildflowers is available from the Theodore Payne Foundation, 10459 Tuxford St., Sun Valley, Calif. 91352. At the foundation, it costs $12.95, or $16.04 by mail order. It will also be available at the following event.