This is native Rock Rose and Salvia Greggii - both attract pollinators and require very little water. This is Canyon Crest Park in Valley Ranch. This was the first of several parks we designed to attract pollinators and educate residents on low water gardens for pollinators. We love working with HOA's to create park and public spaces where residents can enjoy the wonders of Nature! Often projects like this require the partnership of several organizations such as the HOA, City staff, National Wildlife Federation, US Fish and Wildlife, Flood Control Districts, and commercial landscape companies. When these partnerships are created, and you have a good habitat landscape designer, the results are wonderful! Improving communities with the wonders of Nature!

I did a complete new planting design for this project which is a single family home in the suburbs of Towson. The garden is 1/3 acre in size. Most of the existing plants, including many non-native ground covers, like English Ivy, shrubs, and trees, were removed in order to bring in the sunlight for pollinators and remove interference with the power lines. I designed and installed a mostly native plant garden that is designed to be beautiful to view with many flowers blooming all season long and varied textures and movement with ornamental grasses and provides habitat and food for pollinators, like butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, and for songbirds. Nearly 100 trees, nearly 100 shrubs, and 1,000 perennials and grasses were installed. I continue to oversee the maintenance of this garden. Landscape design and photo by Roland Oehme

Design ideas for a large traditional full sun front yard landscaping in Philadelphia.

Butterfly Milkweed / Asclepias tuberosa
This is an example of a landscaping in Minneapolis.

Photo of a landscaping in Minneapolis.

Inspiration for a modern landscaping in Los Angeles.

Pollinator-attracting POP! Christie Green
Photo of a mid-sized contemporary drought-tolerant and shade front yard concrete paver garden path in San Francisco.

Wild Geranium / Geranium maculatum
Inspiration for a landscaping in Minneapolis.

Photo of a small eclectic landscaping in Dallas.

Inspiration for a traditional landscaping in New York.

Kimberley Bryan
Photo of an eclectic shade backyard vegetable garden landscape.

Pepper plants are a delightful addition to any garden, offering a vibrant burst of color and spice to your culinary creations. However, even experienced gardeners can encounter challenges when growing pepper plants. In this blog, we'll explore some common issues you might face and provide practical solutions to help your pepper plants thrive. 1. Slow or Stunted Growth Issue: Slow or stunted growth in pepper plants can be discouraging, but there are specific steps you can take to address this issue effectively. Solution: a. Soil Health: - Well-Draining Soil: Ensure your pepper plants are in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots, which can inhibit growth. - Organic Matter: Incorporate plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil to improve its texture and nutrient content. - pH Level: Test the soil pH and adjust it to the ideal range between 6.0 and 6.8 using lime or sulfur as needed. b. Fertilization: - Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for vegetables to provide essential nutrients steadily throughout the growing season. - Compost: Amend the soil with compost to enhance nutrient availability and soil structure. This can promote healthier growth. c. Watering: - Consistent Moisture: Maintain consistent soil moisture levels by watering your pepper plants regularly but avoid waterlogging. Aim for 1-2 inches of water per week, adjusting based on your local climate and weather conditions. - Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. 2. Yellowing Leaves Issue: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of various underlying problems, but addressing them promptly can restore the vibrancy of your pepper plants. Solution: a. Nutrient Deficiencies: - Balanced Fertilization: Use a well-balanced fertilizer that includes micronutrients to address nutrient deficiencies. - Specific Nutrients: If you suspect a particular deficiency, such as magnesium, iron, or nitrogen, apply the appropriate nutrient supplement following package instructions. b. Pest and Disease Control: - Pest Inspection: Regularly inspect the leaves and stems for common pests like aphids and mites. Remove affected leaves and treat with organic pesticides if necessary. - Disease Management: Look out for signs of diseases like bacterial leaf spot or fungal issues. Apply organic fungicides or bactericides as recommended. 3. Blossom Drop Issue: When pepper plants drop their blossoms prematurely, it can hinder fruit development and lead to disappointment. Solution: a. Temperature Control: - Stable Temperatures: Ensure your pepper plants are exposed to consistent temperatures between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C) during flowering. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations by providing shelter or using row covers. b. Pollination: - Assist with Pollination: If growing peppers indoors or in a greenhouse, help with pollination by gently shaking the plants or using a small brush to transfer pollen between flowers. Outdoor pepper plants are usually pollinated by insects. 4. Wilting Plants Issue: Wilting or drooping pepper plants can be a sign of various problems, but proper care can revive them. Solution: a. Watering: - Consistent Moisture: Adjust your watering routine to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water early in the day to prevent fungal issues. - Drainage: Ensure proper soil drainage by amending the soil or using raised beds to prevent waterlogged roots. b. Pest Control: - Pest Inspection: Examine the undersides of leaves for signs of pests like aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Treat infestations promptly with biological insecticides. 5. Curling Leaves Issue: Curling or misshapen leaves indicate stress in pepper plants, which can be caused by various factors. Solution: a. Environmental Stress: - Stable Conditions: Ensure your pepper plants are in an environment with stable humidity, temperature, and adequate air circulation. Avoid sudden changes in conditions. - Proper Ventilation: Adequate air circulation can reduce humidity and prevent fungal issues. b. Pest and Disease Management: - Pest Inspection: Regularly inspect your plants for pests and diseases, addressing them promptly with organic remedies as needed. 6. Sunscald Issue: Sunscald can lead to discolored, leathery patches on pepper fruits when exposed to intense sunlight. Solution: a. Shade Cloth: - Sun Protection: Shield your pepper plants from harsh sunlight during the hottest part of the day using shade cloth or by planting them where they receive some filtered sunlight. b. Pruning: - Fruit Shading: Prune excess foliage to allow better fruit shading, reducing the risk of sunscald. Ensure that there's a balance between foliage and fruit. 7. Pepper Plant Pests and Diseases Issue: Aphids, mites, whiteflies, and various diseases can affect pepper plants, but you can manage them effectively. Solution: a. Regular Inspection: - Vigilant Monitoring: Regularly inspect your pepper plants for signs of pests or diseases, paying close attention to the undersides of leaves and stems. b. Organic Remedies: - Pest Control: Use organic remedies like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or diatomaceous earth for pest control. - Disease Management: Apply organic fungicides or bactericides as recommended to manage diseases like powdery mildew or bacterial spot. While growing pepper plants can present various challenges, these common issues are manageable with the right knowledge and care. Regular monitoring, proper soil preparation, and timely intervention can help you enjoy a bountiful harvest of vibrant, spicy peppers. Remember that gardening is a learning experience, and each challenge you face is an opportunity to improve your skills and enjoy the rewards of homegrown peppers in your favorite dishes.

Photo of a modern landscaping in Vancouver.

Hanging Bird Cafe provides a modern feeder for feathered friends who want to call your garden their home. Designed to hang from a tree branch or horizontal support. A modern/rustic habitat.

Replaced lawn and weeds with a new healthy garden of native and pollinator plants
Photo of a contemporary front yard landscaping in New York.

Design ideas for a contemporary raised garden bed in Vancouver.

Inspiration for a patio remodel in Toronto

Eriogonum fasciculatum var polifolium. Wonderful pollinator attractor! Christie Green
This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary drought-tolerant and shade front yard concrete paver garden path in San Francisco.

Muhlenbergia rigens. Cool blue driveway fence. Christie Green
Photo of a small contemporary drought-tolerant and shade front yard concrete paver garden path in San Francisco.