Hello from San Francisco!

[Jeph]

My name is Jeph. I'm an avid gardener living in San Francisco, CA. I'm in the process of converting my garden to a gravel garden, inspired by a recent visit to Beth Chatto's garden in Elmstead Market, UK, and the Mediterranean climate and plants I enjoy. That said, I have a dry, sunny-but-cool nine months of spring through late fall, and then (it's to be hoped), a cooler but rainy three months of winter. My garden SERIOUSLY lacks heat at any time of year, but gets cool enough (without any frost) for lilacs, peonies, species tulips, and oriental poppies. I grow cymbidiums, some other orchids, and many Tillandsias outside all year round. I would appreciate any advice on soil prep, general care and sources for Aloes, Agaves, South African bulbs, and such. I have two 12' square semi-raised beds, 3' wide brick walks surrounding each bed, plus 6' deep beds surrounding the perimeter of the garden. I have mostly sun, morning to just after noon.

Whew!

The Institute for Aloe Studies (http://www.aloestudies.org/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;) is just across the Bay from me, plus several other nurseries close by, so I have a terrific source of plants nearby.

Thanks in advance for any insight!

[Gee.S]

Welcome! We have a couple of prolific posters from your general area.