GARDEN TOUR: Granite Gardens Open Day

Located in Sonora, Granite Gardens is the garden of Rebecca Lance and Steve Bickford.  Started over 25 years ago as a mixed mediterranean landscape, the gardens have increasingly emphasized California native plants as they have matured. Close to 100 species of California natives are grown in this garden, which is designed with habitat in mind. Featured are a large number of diverse California shrubs including many of the common species such as Ceanothus, Redbud, Redberry, Toyon, Manzanita, as well as other lesser grown shrubs such as Garrya fremontii, Ribes malvaceum and more. Perennials include many forms of native Salvia, Heuchera, Diplacus, Monardella, grasses, and bulbs.  Rebecca especially loves Penstemon and Eriogonum, so there is an assortment of Penstemons throughout the garden, often growing in conjunction with dozens of species of Eriogonums. Some of the Eriogonums are serpentine endemics, and many are not often seen in cultivation. It is our anticipation that the Penstemons and Eriogonum should be in bloom by early-May, as should the Matilija poppies that line the driveway.

There are too many species to list here, but a detailed plant list can be sent to participants or group leaders who request it prior to the Tour. Most of the plants in the garden, with the exception of the native bulbs, are gopher resistant as the property experiences very high levels of rodent predation.

The gardens will be open all morning and into early afternoon.  Participants are free to come and go as they like during that time. Rebecca will be on hand to answer questions about the plants.