Half Moon Bay Building & Garden is a local business specializing in the retail and wholesale of mixes, pipes, steel, sealers, fertilizer and much more. The company's website contains information on the products available, a materials calculator, manufacturer links and more.
The "Arb," as the UC Davis Arboretum is informally known, contains more than 33,000 trees and plants adapted to the Mediterranean climate (hot dry summers and short, cool and rainy winters) of California's Central Valley. The Arboretum stretches along the old north branch of Putah Creek, from the Davis Commons shopping mall on the eastern edge of campus to the University's far southwestern corner.
The Arb was founded in 1936 as an educational resource. Plantings are grouped according to horticultural themes or geographical origin. There are docent-led tours available. Self-guided tours are also an option. Signage provides information on individual plants in many areas of the grounds.
Each fall and spring, the Arboretum holds several plant sales. Experts are available at these events to provide information on optimal soil, light and other conditions that specific plants need to thrive.
If you appreciate flowers, plants, trees, and their relationship with the environment, consider visiting the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden. This is a 127-acre space with fountains, lagoons, strolling peacocks, and peaceful trails that will fill your senses with color and aromas.
Must see and do at the Arboretum
Queen Anne Cottage – This Victorian style house that was built in 1885 by Elias Jackson Baldwin can be toured on Fridays and Saturdays. Other than its architecture, this house is famous for being in the opening credits of the TV show "Fantasy Island" and for the everlasting rumors that it may be haunted.
Hugo Reid Adobe – The original adobe was built in 1840 using the labor of Native Americans that had lived in the area for many years prior. It was reconstructed in the mid-1900s using their original techniques. You can learn about its history, and of the Tongva Indians, by walking about the structure.
The gardens – They are organized geographically so that you will appreciate the differences between the flora from the Mediterranean, for example, to that of the Americas, Africa, Australia, and more.
Best and worse time to go to the Arboretum
Admission is free on the third Tuesday of the month. However, there are no tram tours on that day.
You may want to catch a lecture, a workshop, or a music concert. There are many listed on the park's calendar at Arboretum.org. On the flip side, if you are not interested in a concert, plan your visit on a different day. They fill up the parking lots to capacity and what is usually free becomes pricey.
Admission to the Arboretum
Admission is under $10. You can pay with cash or with credit card. Some workshops and lectures may have an additional cost.
The Arboretum is located in the City of Arcadia, about 30 minutes northeast of downtown LA. There is public transportation available. You can plan your visit on metro.net.
Wildlife at the Arboretum
Hundreds of peacocks live at the Arboretum. Take some time to admire them as they walk freely throughout the park. They are unafraid of humans because Arcadia has been their home since the late 1800s. You will be amused.
Insider tip of the Arboretum
Wear comfortable shoes as you will do a lot of walking. California's sun is often bright so a hat and sun glasses may be useful.
From June through September the Pasadena Symphony and Pops holds its season at the Arboretum. It is a fabulous way to enjoy a classical music concert under the stars of a balmy California evening. See if your visit matches one of their dates at PasadenaSymphony-pops.org.
Author's Bio: Dena Burroughs has lived in Los Angeles for almost 30 years. She loves palm trees, peacocks, and dancing Salsa. VidaSalsera.com is her own website.
