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editor’s letter

hat never ceases to amaze me about Sonoma County are the smart, talented people here who are in touch with the earth, who understand about growing and gardening from soil type and seed to weather and watering systems. In this issue of Homes and Lifestyles, you’ll read about specialists who can advise you about water-wise gardening and water conservation – Daily Acts and Master Gardeners, to name two. To demonstrate how beautiful and efficient drought-tolerant gardens can be, six home and garden tours are highlighted in this issue. These lovely adventures are educational experiences (with advisors on hand) that enable us to wander down scented garden paths and ‘snoop’ inside people’s homes, while dreaming about the potential for our own patches of earth. Read the preview, then don’t wait too long to buy tickets. When you do, you also aid worthy causes that support important community services. If you’re in the market to buy or sell a house, that’s a huge undertaking and you need the advice of local real estate professionals. This is a situation in which you must go local. What price tag would you place on – or pay for – the Sonoma County lifestyle? Whether you’re selling or sprucing up your home, picking the right colors remains a big task. It always seems like so much fun … until you get started and find it totally confusing. Interior designer Lorraine Alexander agrees that selecting color is a tricky business and she shares her “rules” for choosing and using it. And here’s something we may not think about: “The world of residential lighting is experiencing a time of change similar in many ways to the time when Thomas Edison developed the first mass-produced light bulb,” explains David Leff in his story about LED lighting. It is interesting to learn about the influence light has in a home and, even better, how to select the right type of light. That should be simple, right? We hope you like not only the stories inside our spring issue but also the fresh new look of the magazine, created by designer Brent Miller. Send us your thoughts – we’d love to hear from you. Patricia M. Roth patti@sonomadiscoveries.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS Spring 2014 Editor Patricia M. Roth Design & Production Brent Miller Photography Editor Sarah Bradbury Contributors Lorraine Alexander Rollie Atkinson Robin Hug David Leff Patricia M. Roth

Real Estate Resurgence …7 Market favors home sellers, realtors optimistic about 2014

Publisher Rollie Atkinson Associate Publisher Sarah Bradbury Advertising Director Cherie Kelsay

Sales Manager Paula Wise

Advertising Sales Steve Pedersen Kyle Domenichelli Carol Rands Graphic Designers Jim Schaefer Deneé Rebottaro

For advertising placement inquiries, email paulawise@hbgtrib.com.

Homes and Lifestyles advertising and editorial offices 9025 Old Redwood Hwy., Suite E Windsor, CA 95492 P.O. Box 518, Healdsburg, CA 95448 707-838-9211 Homes & Lifestyles is an advertising supplement to the April 24, 2014 issue of Sonoma West Times & News, The Healdsburg Tribune, The Windsor Times and The Cloverdale Reveille. This magazine uses zero Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) UV inks. VOCs create smog. Because it’s not printed using conventional Heatset, this publication has substantially reduced its carbon footprint. Printed by Barlow Printing, Cotati, CA.

18 12 Color Rules ..............................................................12 How to choose, use and live with color

Understanding LED Lighting ........18

Today’s light-emitting-diode bulbs are less expensive, more energy-efficient and have a lower environmental impact than Edison’s electric light bulb

Gardening During a Drought ......20 Advice abundant about low-water use practices

Home & Garden Tours........................... 24 Calendar of Events ....................................30

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HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

real estate

Real Estate Resurgence MARKET FAVORS HOME SELLERS, REALTORS OPTIMISTIC ABOUT 2014 by Rollie Atkinson

T QUICK FACT

photo by: Nick Pavelka

Sonoma County’s home-buying market right now remains a strong seller’s market with a tight inventory at almost every price level. The market continues to be marked by multiple offers, above-asking price bidding and an astounding number of “total cash” transactions.

he farther Sonoma County’s real estate market distances itself from the Great Recession of 2009, the more things continue to improve. The home-selling market over the past five years has traveled a steep uphill climb at a slow, slow pace, marked by gradually improving values and increased activity. And now most local real estate professionals are expressing renewed confidence that 2014 will be a year with a quicker pace, new inventory, continued buyer demand and attractive financing. In other words – a more normal and traditional market. The year started with housing prices up 21 percent over a year ago with the county’s median property price at $461,000, according to the Bay Area Real Estate Information Services (BARIS). Upper-end luxury properties continue to sell the best, but there has been a noticeable improvement the past two months in both available inventory and prices for middle-market properties. All this is a far cry from what happened just five years ago when Sonoma County housing values dropped by more than 20 percent. When the region’s housing bubble burst in 2009, Sonoma County lost $4 billion in property values. The county’s median housing price hit a record of $619,000 in 2005 and then plunged to just $305,000 by 2009. Today, that market of 183,000

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

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properties is valued at $64 billion on the county assessor’s tax books. “I’m very optimistic,” said Ingrid Mathews of Creative Property Services in Santa Rosa. “It might only be a feeling but I think we’re going to see a lot of increased activity in the market as we go into spring. The forecasts I’m looking at are very good.” Sonoma County’s home-buying market right now remains a strong seller’s market with a tight inventory at almost every price level. The market continues to be marked by multiple offers, above-asking price bidding and an astounding number of “total cash” transactions. As of press time, there were just over 500 residential property listings in Sonoma County. A “normal” market would have five times that many listings, according to the North Bay Association of Realtors. Windsor-based agent Mari Giblin of CPS reported there were only 28 residential listings in Windsor, but also reported a “gradual climb” and a good opportunity for anyone thinking of offering a new property in the marketplace. “I think we’re headed into a banner year for both the market and the overall economy,” Giblin said. Another changing characteristic in the market is the decline of “stress” sales and foreclosures, now down 69 percent from a year ago. “There’s no doubt it’s a very unique market,” said Kent Mitchell, an agent at Healdsburg’s

Wine Country Group. “There’s just so little inventory and so much demand. I see a lot of buyers getting frustrated because of the hot competition over what listings there are.” Mitchell said his last three sales were all above the original asking price. In the very desirable Healdsburg and North County market, luxury wine country properties are still fetching the most interest, Mitchell and other local professionals reported. “We’re just 60 miles from San Francisco and not far from Silicon Valley,” Mitchell said. “You can see where a lot of the buyers are coming from.” Eric Drew, owner/broker of Artisan Sotheby’s International Realty in Healdsburg, Sebastopol and Santa Rosa, said real estate was surging this spring. “There is very little inventory – a lot of buyers seeking high quality properties. There are a lot of cash transactions. We’re seeing properties going as much as 10 percent over last summer comparables,” he said.” Kellie Larson of Re/Max Full Spectrum in Healdsburg says 2014 will be “a year of growth. I think things are going to break loose. There’s a lot of room for more volume and homeowners are finding that their property values are reaching a pinnacle once again.” Multiple offers continue to be placed on the limited inventory of listings, Larson said, especially in the $500,000 price range. “Agents have to be

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443 Allan Court, Healdsburg creative and keep their clients informed about the competitive market. I see values creeping up and I think we’ve stabilized and are ready for some real growth.” Larson recently had a listing for $997,000. The buyer received eight “all cash” offers over $1.1 million. Many buyers have cash from their money market accounts or cashed-out pensions, she said. “I think we’re still going to see a lot of influx of out-of-area buyers,” said Ron Pavelka, of Cloverdale’s Wine Country Group Realtors by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. “Things might be just a bit slower than last year, but I think we’ll see prices going up.” The veteran agent is looking for any steadiness he can find after the topsy-turvy ride through the Great Recession where Cloverdale house prices dropped by 72 percent in 2008, only to be followed by a hot “investor market” with people buying up condos and other rental investment properties. The Cloverdale investor market got so big that Pavelka and his wife Jane opened a property management company, North County Property Management. That market has slowed now, but Cloverdale is still proving a desirable location for retirement and second homebuyers. New Offices Opening

While the buyers and sellers market continues its steady uptick, there are also many changes taking place inside the county’s real estate industry.

New offices with new names have been opening throughout almost all the county’s more local markets from Healdsburg to Sebastopol and beyond. Pacific Union, Vanguard Properties, Christie’s International Real Estate, Keller Williams Realty and other regional and national firms have jumped into the market. At the end of last year, Frank Howard Allen Realtors, a venerable local name in the industry since 1910, was sold to NRT LLC, the parent company of Coldwell Banker and Sotheby’s. Through the recent years, it has not been unusual for real estate agents to stay put in one office, only to see the name change on the sign over the front door, signifying a new ownership or merger. Vanguard Properties, a leading real estate firm in San Francisco, recently opened two offices each in both Sebastopol and Healdsburg and a fifth location in Guerneville. Many of the Vanguard agents are familiar faces that have moved over from other agencies. West County real estate agent Barbara Paul moved to the new Sebastopol Vanguard Properties office last August, after 20 years in the local industry. “It’s a strong company and we have a great marketing program,” she said. “When we do a Sonoma County listing, it goes out to all our Vanguard offices in San Francisco and Silicon Valley.” Like nearly all other local agents, Paul spends lots of her time with “frustrated” buyers.

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Nestled in the treetops above the Russian River near Forestville, this recently remodeled home offers light-filled bedrooms and an efficient gourmet kitchen. Listing agent: Barbara Paul, Vanguard Properties

Multiple offers and price bidding are fueling buyers’ competition. “I advise my frustrated buyers they might want to broaden their search area or look at slightly different types of properties,” Paul said. She said her ideal listing she wishes she had to sell right now would be an $800,000 “country property” somewhere in Western Sonoma County. “Right now, we’re still in a strong seller’s market but I think the coming spring market will dilute that a little bit and make it more accessible for more people,” Paul added. Another new name in the Sonoma County real estate industry is one of the largest firms in the Bay Area, Pacific Union. It now has six offices in Sonoma County, including a new one in Healdsburg led by Rick Laws. Recently Laws said the high demand on the county’s upper-end properties is the best evidence that “health and

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

recovery has worked its way into the market.” The median price for homes that sold in the Healdsburg market in January was $734,000, where a total of 16 properties were sold. Re/Max’s Larson has noticed the industry changes as well. “Lots of it is just a ‘shell game.’ The pie (market size) is still the same. It’s up to the agent to go out and make his own win. We’re very stable at Re/Max,” she said, mentioning Re/ Max has offices well beyond San Francisco in China, Budapest, Japan and around the world. Matthews said her CPS office holds weekly workshops on various topics to help stay on top of the competitive market. “You need all your tools. You need to have a plan and you need to be dedicated, motivated and educated.” She said her weekly work schedule is so busy, you wouldn’t think there was a shortage of listings. H+L

The extensive remodel to this Forestville home included a new foundation and roof; newly landscaped gardens lead to the Russian River. The great room features a stone fireplace and opens onto to an expansive deck with river views.

REAL ESTATE PERSONNEL BRIEFS Stephen Liebling, longtime manager of the Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Sebastopol office, received a 2013 Spirit of Sonoma Award from the Sonoma County Economic Development Board. The award recognizes those who contribute to the economic development of local communities and donate their time and expertise to support other businesses and professionals. Jane and Ron Pavelka, top producers for the Wine Country Group, are expanding their real estate business. They recently moved to a larger location at 233 N. Cloverdale Blvd. and are proud to announce another new addition to their firm. After graduating from college in New York, Cristina Pavelka has come home to Cloverdale and is already deeply involved in the “family business.”

2.99 3.25

Brenda Vronoski and Shalia Vanderweken of Wine Country Real Estate Network in Cloverdale recently mastered the Property Management Certification course and are now handling rentals and property management. The North Bay Association of Realtors announces its 2014 Board of Directors. Board members represent NorBAR’s chapters, which cover a four-county area in the North Bay. The Executive Committee includes: President Timothy Hedges, President-Elect Sally Crain, Past President Rebecca Celli, Treasurer Herman J. Hernandez, Secretary David Kerr, Mendocino County Director Howard Egan, Napa County Director Chris Wunderlich, Napa County Director Stefan Jezycki, North County Director Carol Lexa, Petaluma Director Diana Gorsiski, Rohnert Park/Cotati Director Sandie Waterman, Russian River Director Herman Hernandez, Santa Rosa Director Greg Cornelius, Santa Rosa Director Judith Palmer, Sebastopol Director Lori Sacco and Sonoma Director David Kerr.

Need a Home Equity % APR Line of Credit? % APR 6 Month Intro Rate 1

1 - Introductory APR of 2.99% is for six monthly statement cycles for new accounts only. This offer is for line amounts of $100,000 to $250,000 secured by owner-occupied residences only. Call for introductory rates on line amounts less than $100,000. Automatic payments from an Exchange Bank deposit account are required. Introductory rate is effective through the first six statement cycles after your open date. To receive this rate, applications must be submitted by May 31st, 2014. This special offer is for a limited time only. Exchange Bank reserves the right to modify or end this offer at any time. Your rate may differ based upon loan amount, loan to value, and/or credit history. APR is subject to change based on the prime rate as published in the Wall Street Journal (WSJ). Maximum APR is 18%. $75 annual fee waived the first year. After the promotional 6-month introductory rate, the APR will convert to Prime plus 0.0%, currently 3.25%, for line amounts of $100,000 to $250,000. Payment example during the introductory period at 2.99% would be $253.95 per month based on a balance of $100,000. Payment example after the introductory period at 3.25% would be $276.03 per month based on a balance of $100,000. These payment examples assume that no additional credit advances were taken, that only the minimum payments were made, and that the interest rate remained constant. This is based on a 120-month draw period with interest only payments which is followed by a 15-year repayment period and requires fully amortized payments of principal and interest. Property insurance is required and flood insurance may be required. This offer is subject to credit approval. Borrower may have to pay certain fees to third parties such as title companies, appraisers, and government agencies, including when a sub-escrow is required to pay off an existing lender, or if vesting corrections must be made. Borrower may be subject to an early closing fee of $500 if the account is closed within 35 months of the account opening date. Other conditions apply. Please contact Exchange Bank for further details, 707.524.3000.

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R O L S O E CUL RO HOW TO CHOOSE, USE AND LIVE WITH COLOR

by Lorraine Alexander

n any given day, we find ourselves surrounded by the most incredible colors. Most often, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give it much thought. The best design pros know that color is a powerful tool that impacts a room more than any other design element. Color definitely communicates a mood â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and is a language of sorts. Combine the right colors and you can easily create cottage-style or modern sophistication. A slightly different hue of the same color can make a room feel vibrant or relaxed. Splashes of color can add just the right touch of fun or transform an unattractive room instantly into a room that is warm and welcoming.

Color is the universal art that feeds the soul.

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

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Science has proven that color can produce a positive (or negative) emotional response in humans. The physiological study of color and its usefulness is used throughout the world in marketing, advertising and sales. Now color is used in hospital design, as it has been recognized for its healing benefits. Certain colors have been proven to instantly uplift our mood, or to calm us. Some examples: Soft hues of greyed blue can contribute to a meditative environment; soft greens are tranquil yet uplifting; oranges can stimulate creativity; and yellows create a sunny mood while reds set the stage for passion. Being aware of these effects and benefits can help you make better choices in your home. In essence, color is light. You will see color differently depending on the amount of natural light and the type of exposure a room has. Northern light has blue rays and western light is a warmer, golden light. Even the lens of your eye can interpret color differently, depending on your age. In a nutshell, the same color will not look the same in all homes, or in all rooms, or to all people. It’s a tricky business selecting color, and the options are endless. The selection process of finding the perfect shade is challenging, even to seasoned designers.

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Here are some general considerations: • Color is categorized as warm or cool. Examples of warm colors include yellows, oranges and reds; cool color tones include greens, blues and purples. • Warm colors advance, creating a cozier feeling to the room, while cool colors recede, creating an airy, open feeling. • Light colors reflect light, and dark colors absorb light. Think about the function of the room and how much light will be needed for utility purposes. • Color has a base or undertone that will affect the mood of the room. That undertone will either complement or fight with the existing decor. An example of this would be a room with a natural maple floor, which naturally yellows with age. If

you choose to use a rose undertone, it will clash, whereas using a pale gray with a green undertone would complement the maple floor. • C onsider that even whites have a tint or undertone. Some whites are brighter with little or no base, and some have brown or greys in the base. Little or no tint (in white) will provide the most contrast when used with other colors. Know that our perception of color is greatly affected by other elements in the room, such as lighting, furnishings, drapes and cabinets. The best advice is to consider both the existing elements and any new material you plan to introduce. Remember that each material you choose is a ‘color selection.’ Choose the right combination – and your room will come alive.

speaking, when I’m looking for color, I turn to nature for inspiration. Give yourself time, as selecting color is a process. I suggest testing your selection in your home to make sure the shade works with existing elements. If you find it clashes, move on to another selection. Once you have identified your perfect color, you’re ready to proceed. Now, look for your color in a fabulous piece of art or an area carpet – find something you love and work your way out from there by adding neutrals. Repeat your perfect color throughout your design, and keep in mind the shades can vary just a bit. In fact, this variation will give your design the best outcome. The most seasoned design professionals often use this method of color variation.

Finding your perfect color

Making your small space seem larger

Begin by finding the first stone to throw into the pond; everything else will ripple from that. On your quest to find the perfect color, look for a color that makes you feel good. Personally

Designers actually do have lots of tricks up their sleeves. These few simple tricks are small miracles in the making.

THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS 1. MAKING THE PALATE TOO COMPLEX. In home color palates, just as in gardens, novices often get overly enthused and overuse color. The best designers know that in the end, less is more. Keep your palate simple. Even if you love color, a complex palate isn’t necessarily better.

materials (like colors) have a hue or undertone, usually, yellow, red or green – or a combination of these. Like it or not, once you make that final selection of that new floor material, you have cast the first stone; and now, it’s officially part of your palate. It will heavily influence what you can use from here on out.

2. HASTY COLOR SELECTIONS. Selecting the perfect color is a process. I always provide large paint samples for clients, and they are asked to live with them for at least a few days. The client is instructed to look at the swatches at different times of day – and to move them to different walls. The swatches appear slightly different on each wall. Try this and you will be amazed at how the color changes. In the end, you’ll know which color is right for you.

4. OVERLOOKING THE INTENT OF THE ROOM. Consider how the room is used. Remember, deeper colors absorb light, lighter colors reflect light. Use lighter colors in rooms that that need good light.

3. LOCKING THE DESIGN IN WITH THE WRONG MATERIAL SELECTION. All

5. SHYING AWAY FROM CONTRAST. Many new colorists and designers make the mistake of trying to select colors and furnishings that are too similar. I call this common mistake ‘HOMEogenizing.’ Even if your palate is neutral, you can easily add bits of contrast with small amounts of black or chocolate. An example of

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this would be to add dark, thin picture frames. These small touches of contrast go a long way. 6. IGNORING THE PALATE OF THE ENTIRE HOUSE. Selecting a color for one room without consideration to the overall color palate of the home is a huge mistake. Ever walk into a home, only to see that one single bright red room? Color should beautifully unfold and draw you through the home as you enter with subtle surprises and pops of color along the way. 7. OVERLOOKING THE HOME’S BEST FEATURES. Take inventory of your home’s best features. Consider what’s unique. Maybe it’s an element of architecture, the view, or something else like beautiful tile or exceptional wood floors. Then select a palate that compliments and highlights the best features. HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

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THE NEW COLOR FOR 2014: RADIANT ORCHID

RADIANT RULES Follow these rules and you’ll be sure to create a bedazzled mood worthy of Radiant Orchid.

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

Deep, rich, and complex, layered with hues of plum and blush pink, Radiant Orchid emerges as “Color of the Year” for 2014. Profoundly symbolic, orchid represents creativity, innovation, inspiration and, in ancient cultures, royalty and wealth. During the Victorian era, orchids symbolized a shift to luxury. Even today, orchids continue to represent a rare and delicate beauty that causes pause and admiration. It’s not surprising that this unique and somewhat magical color, with its sweet yet veiled intensity, has achieved this highly regarded status.

1.) Define your foundation in neutrals. Use colors borrowed from nature: murky mocha, warm putty and stone. 2.) Simple palates can be lush when the mainstay neutrals are layered and textures are used. 3.) Use Radiant Orchid with restraint and repetition. 4.) Just as you would layer your neutrals, layer the shade of orchid just a bit to add interest. 5.) Want a bit more sparkle? Add touches of metal, which will highlight and balance the room. I call this finishing touch “the jewelry of the room.”

• K eep it simple. Keep the palate simple, and use mostly neutrals. You can add a strong color or deep neutral as a focal point – but keep this to a minimum. Simplicity will make your room seem larger. • Paint the ceiling bright white. Use stark white ceiling paint with absolutely no tint, the whitest white you can find. This provides a striking contrast with even the slightest wall tint, making the walls appear deeper while the bright white ceiling reflects good light. • Select neutral wall color. Cool colors recede. A neutral palate with a cool undertone will make your space appear larger.

PANTONE 18-3224

Neutrals - hotter than ever

It’s not hard to see the marketplace is rapidly changing and that neutral palates are hot. Neutrals can be over-the-top scrumptious in a room design, if they are carefully layered with good use of texture. Dark chocolate, mauve, mocha, warm greys, putty, stone – one can easily imagine these colors of nature and understand how seamlessly they work together. Use of warms and cools can work extremely well. Think of rocks on a river’s shore. The colors vary from warm to cool, working beautifully together like notes from a symphony.

Tips for using neutrals

Layer your neutrals by combining warmer and cooler hues of a similar color (mix cool and warm greys, as one example). At the same time, vary the intensity (lighter and deeper beige can make for a more interesting palate). Add a pop of color for drama’s sake (like tangerine with dusty greyed mauve). Use various textures to add interest – and use fabrics that feel good to touch. Who dictates the ‘Color of the Year’ and why?

Since the year 2000, the Pantone Color Institute has designated a “Color of the Year” to express in color what is taking place in the global zeitgeist. A team of experts, led on a quest by director Leatrice Eiseman, study worldwide influences including countless creative sectors. In the final selection, Color of the Year is chosen for its global appeal. It is a reflection of what fulfills a need, rather than what’s hot or fashionable. It encapsulates the mood, lifestyle and certainly the attitude of the global consumer. So if you’re ready to embrace Radiant Orchid in your home, here is some great design advice for beginners. Use it in areas that can easily be updated without expense. Suggestions include decorative

pillows, lamps, accessories, small area rugs or seat covers. Avoid more permanent choices, like accent tile, drapes, large upholstered items or full rooms of this color. Tread lightly using this bold color, and in the end your room will look amazing. Although color trends are an integral part of our culture and they truly do impact and inspire new design strategies, I advise clients to never use a color simply because it’s the latest trend. First ask: Is it a good fit for your personality, your home, your office? In this case, trust your instincts. H+L

Bio: Lorraine Alexander is an accomplished and recognized interior design professional with more than 20 years’ experience in the field of design. Color is the hallmark of her work. Known for her unique approach to holistic, healthy design practices, she is certified in

COLOR WORKSHOPS IN MAY Session 1 – May 10: Color theory workshop including “Everything You Need to Know About Color.” This workshop is suitable for both beginners and trade professionals. Session 2 – May 17: This fun hands-on interactive follow-up session will focus on “Building a Custom Color Palate.” Attendees will learn to coordinate a palate, including paint colors and materials selections. You must attend session one to join session two.

Green Building with Sonoma State University. Committed to education, she chairs the SRJC Interior Design Program Advisory Committee and serves the U.S. Green Building Council’s Pacific Region as Chair.

For more details or to be notified for registration, contact info@lorrainealexander.com or 707-836-9060 or go to www.LorraineAlexander.com

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

energy

FUN TIPS

photo by: Leff Construction

LEDs are likely to eventually replace incandescent and fluorescent lighting in residential uses.

Understanding LED Lighting TODAY’S LIGHT-EMITTING-DIODE BULBS ARE LESS EXPENSIVE, MORE ENERGY-EFFICIENT AND HAVE A LOWER ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT THAN EDISON’S ELECTRIC LIGHT BULB

by David Leff

he world of residential lighting is experiencing a time of change similar in many ways to the time when Thomas Edison developed the first mass-produced light bulb. The change then was the move from light from the fire of oil lamps or candles to that produced by an electrical light bulb. The change today is from the Edison bulb, which produces light from the heat generated by running electric current through a thin wire filament in the airless environment of a light bulb, to the light-emitting diode or LED, which produces light from electrons moving through a semi-conductor that, in turn, emits light-producing photons.

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

An LED bulb has many advantages over incandescent bulbs. First, it is significantly more energy-efficient. An LED bulb is called a high-efficacy bulb because it uses significantly less energy than an incandescent one, reducing the impact on the environment from carbon-producing generation of electricity. The amount of light produced by an LED bulb is measured in lumens, which is a measurement of light, or the amount of brightness the human eye perceives. Incandescent bulbs are measured in watts, a measurement of electrical power. We know that a higher wattage bulb produces more light, but with an incandescent bulb, it is not the light itself that is being measured but the electrical energy. A 60-watt (W) incandescent bulb produces about 750 lumens of light whereas an LED bulb, which produces 750 lumens, uses about 12 watts of power. Second, an LED bulb will last many years longer than an incandescent bulb and although the “sticker shock” of LEDs remains a deterrent, it is less expensive over the life of the bulb. The life expectancy of an LED bulb is more than 50,000 hours whereas a compact fluorescent

“Work with someone you know and trust.”

Kent Mitchell

REALTOR

Lic #01290852

(707) 433-2475 kentmitchell@earthlink.net kentmitchell.net

bulb will last for 8,000 hours, and an incandescent will typically last about 1,000 hours. While the cost of a typical LED bulb is $15 to $20 and a 60W-incandescent bulb is closer to $0.75, the fact that the LED bulb will last 50 times longer makes the LED a more cost-effective alternative. Third, because LED bulbs last many years longer than incandescent, their environmental impact is much reduced due to the smaller amount of material placed in disposal sites across the country. Also, when compared to compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), which are filled with mercury, LED bulbs do not release that mercury into the environment when they are disposed of. So these new LED bulbs – which are less expensive, more energy efficient and have a lower environmental impact – are slowly replacing incandescent and CFL bulbs. But what is the downside? The answer is: There is little downside any longer. Up until quite recently, LED bulbs did not produce the same quality or color light when compared to incandescent or warm fluorescent. The state of the art of LED manufacturing is now much improved, and LED light of equal lumens to incandescent is also available with the same quality. In addition to the quantity of lumens, light bulbs are measured in two other ways. The color of light produced by a bulb is determined by its temperature, measured in degrees Kelvin (K). The lower the temperature, the more red color is in the light; and the higher the temperature, the more blue is in the light. An incandescent bulb produces 2,700-degree Kelvin light; and natural daylight, at noon, is 5,000-degree Kelvin. Halogen lamps, which are only slightly more energy-efficient than standard incandescent, are 3,000K; commercial fluorescent tube bulbs are 4,000K. Some people prefer the redder light of a 2,700K bulb and some prefer the brighter 3,000K.

You need to be aware that skin color and surface material color will vary with the temperature of the light bulb. Most bulbs now will be labeled with their temperature as well as their lumens. The one characteristic of LED light that is not quite up to the quality of incandescent is measured by its color-rendering index (CRI). The CRI of a bulb is a measure of the ability of the bulb to reveal the colors of the objects being illuminated as close to that of natural light. Numerically, the highest CRI is 100, which is the CRI of an incandescent bulb. Fluorescent bulbs range from 50 to 90; and LEDs in the past were 80 to 90 but now are being produced by some manufacturers with a CRI close to 98. The CRI of a bulb is not always indicated on the bulb label but is an important factor when purchasing a bulb, especially when you are spending more than $20. Because of their superior characteristics, LEDs are likely to eventually replace incandescent and fluorescent lighting in residential uses. Already building codes are requiring a higher and higher percentage of high-efficacy lighting in homes, and manufacturers are finding ways to reduce the cost of production of LEDs, bringing down the cost of the bulbs. Incandescent bulbs will likely be completely phased out within the next five years simply because of their impact on the environment and their contribution to carbon emissions and climate change. Next time you go shopping for a light bulb, you will now be able to make sense of the light bulb displays and understand why, in this time of change, you can no longer go to the store and simply buy a light bulb. H+L

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& sew much more! knit crochet felt sew

Please check this proof carefully for errors and omissions. Your signature below constitutes acceptance of full responsibility for all errors, omissions and legal and ethical compliance in this document. Sonoma West Publishers will not accept liability for errors overlooked at this stage of proofing. Any changes from your previously approved copy will be charged extra according to both time and materials. Advertiser agrees to pay appropriate rates and production costs as specified in the cur461 Healdsburg Ave. rent rate card. All conditions of the latest rate card apply. OK AS IS

David Leff is president of Leff Construction, a Design/Build remodeling and new home construction company in Sebastopol. Leff Construction includes home performance work in many of its home building and remodeling projects.

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gardens

Gardening During the Drought ADVICE ABUNDANT ABOUT LOW-WATER USE PRACTICES

f you’re ready to transform your water-thirsty lawn into a less-thirsty landscape, plenty of resources exist to help you figure it out. Organizations such as Daily Acts and Sonoma County Master Gardeners are among those providing free workshops and programs. A regional partnership representing 10 cities and the water conservation departments of cities, too, have developed water-wise programs, and many nurseries have on-site experts and workshops covering topics such as irrigation design and installation and choosing drought-tolerant plants. Below, two leaders in their fields provide hands-on solutions for residents who want to know how to conserve water and garden under drought conditions. Daily Acts promotes skill building that enables individuals to create alternatives to water-guzzling lawns, practices that have spread to thousands of front and back yards countywide. Sonoma County Master Gardeners provide expert advice for gardeners who need to re-evaluate their practices now that water is scarce. In the interviews below, you will learn about removing turf and preparing soil, matching plants with land needs, and installing greywater systems and drip irrigation.

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

Story by Robin Hug Photography by Sarah Bradbury City of Windsor and Daily Acts Waterwise Planting and Garden Care Workshop

On a sunny day this February, when in past years it is usually raining, a group of water conservationists joined Daily Acts to learn more about conserving water by changing their home landscaping. The Town of Windsor hosted the workshop to teach residents about transforming lawn into food gardens and habitat gardens that use low water, drip irrigation. Attendees learned water-wise practices, how mulching can help conserve water and what varieties to plant in place of lawn. The day was spent talking about alternatives to lawn, what types of gardens you can grow in place of turf and how to get started. Food gardens, commonly referred to as food forests, are one of several options for replacing lawn with drought-tolerant species. Alternatively, landscaping with medicinal plants or creating a habitat for native pollinators such as birds, bees and butterflies are other ways to fill the space. “Generally speaking, turf, especially turf that you keep green throughout the summer, is a really thirsty plant; and so by sheet mulching it over you are building top soil, and it allows for this blank slate to plant

“In 2012, Daily Acts hosted the largest do-it-yourself greywater workshop that has ever been held in the nation so, in a lot of ways, we are at an epicenter in Sonoma County.” Daily Acts Homegrown Programs Coordinator Ryan Johnston

more water-wise alternatives. And we really advocate growing food in place of that – fruit trees and berry bushes are great alternatives to turf,” Daily Acts Homegrown Programs Coordinator Ryan Johnston said. Once you have decided what to plant in place of turf, the next step is to mulch the lawn in preparation for planting. Daily Acts workshops also teach how to do this. “You leave the turf in place, mow it really short, then you can put down a layer of compost if you would like to help liven the soil; put down a continuous layer of cardboard, which acts as a biodegradable weed barrier; and then you cover it over with mulch. It all just breaks down like a lasagna and creates healthy living topsoil, which you can then plant directly into,” Johnston said. Putting organic matter in the soil increases water capacity and keeps it on site for the plants to use as opposed to running off. When the organic matter in soil is increased by one percent then the water-holding capacity increases by 10 percent. The best time to mulch is when the soil is moist or there’s some rain to help break down the materials. By summertime, your soil will be ready for planting. For those interested in getting more use out of their water, saving on their water bill and helping to conserve, Daily Acts offers workshops on installing greywater systems, where they teach how water used in your home can be reused to water new landscaping. “You can get double use out of the water you use inside your house and use it for a landscape system, then you don’t need a permit to install these systems,” Johnston said. Although there are many options, the simplest way to set up a greywater system at home begins with the installation of a diverter valve into the back of your washer and dryer. With each load that’s washed, you are given the option to send the water from the wash to the sewer or septic, where it usually goes, or to send it out to the mulch basins out in your landscape. It is important to note that you should never send dirty diaper water, bleach-loaded laundry or certain types of detergent into the greywater system, and you should only water trees, bushes and perennials – not your vegetable garden. Mayra Arreguin moves mulch during the water conservation workshop hosted by the Town of Windsor and Daily Acts.

“It happens to be really hard, almost impossible, to irrigate turf with greywater using one of these simple systems, but watering fruit trees, berry bushes or even native plants couples really well so you get double-duty out of the water you paid for. It is a fairly straightforward system to install, and we partner with cities where we offer the free workshops and we also support them in designing their systems,” Johnston said. Individual cities throughout the county also have programs through their water departments that provide individual site visits to help troubleshoot and connect residents with tools to install their systems. Greywater kits are available in select cities (call your water department to find out what your city offers or review options at savingwaterpartnership.org). “In 2009, greywater was this dirty word and a lot of people didn’t want to think about it but, through time, it has been scaling up, especially locally. In 2012, Daily Acts, in partnership with the cities of Petaluma and Cotati, hosted the largest do-it-yourself greywater workshop that has ever been held in the nation so, in a lot of ways, we are at an epicenter in Sonoma County. Our county board and city officials are on board with it, and I think it is becoming common knowledge,” Johnston said. A greywater system is on display (left) and workshop leaders prep those who came to the Water-wise Planting and Garden Care workshop at Robbins Park in Windsor (pictured, page 20).

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

RESOURCES SONOMA-MARIN SAVING WATER PARTNERSHIP savingwaterpartnership.org Find drought information, rebate programs, water saving tips, outside assistance and links to the 10 water utilities that are providing a regional approach to water-use efficiency, including the Town of Windsor, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Petaluma, Sonoma, Cotati, North Marin; Valley of the Moon and Marin Municipal Water Districts; and Sonoma County Water Agency.

Garden Sense: Free Consultations for Residents

Residents that need further assistance about transforming their home lawn and other water-hungry landscapes can request a personal appointment through Garden Sense, a program offered by the Sonoma County Master Gardeners and the Sonoma County Water Agency. The collaboration between the two groups aims to conserve water and teach Sonoma County residents about alternate options for landscaping. “It started out as a lawn removal program to follow up with people that were looking to remove their lawn in the so-called ‘cash for grass’ program but it quickly spread out to anybody who wants to save water on their landscape,” Master Gardener and Garden Sense Coordinator Phyllis Turrill said. The free consultation program offers irrigation consultations and resources for transitioning a spray system into a drip system, suggestions on what plants are drought-tolerant for this climate and how to sheet mulch lawn. After you request an appointment, the process begins with a callback from a Master Gardener looking for information on what type of water-wise changes you want to make in your garden. The information is given to the Garden Sense consultants who will call to set up an appointment. During the consultation, two Master Gardeners will come to your garden to do a site assessment and talk about the resources available, including irrigation, lawn replacement and suggestions for low-water-use plants and sustainable landscaping. “We find out what the client wants to do, and we have brochures to walk you through certain things such as sheet mulching. We have a list of places you can get mulch, the compost and that kind of thing. If you are in a certain city that has a rebate, we suggest that you contact that city to see if you qualify, and we give you the list of plants that we have,” Turrill said. Before master gardeners come out, they highlight plants that might fit in a landscape and screen for other issues, such as gophers, deer or raccoon problems. “We can show you how to convert your spray irrigation on a lawn to drip, which is easy to do, and the places you can get help with irrigation,” Turrill added. During this time of drought, the Garden Sense program coordinators are asking that residents looking to start new projects start by sheet mulching but wait on planting. Residents that are interested in transitioning their lawns but don’t want to do the work themselves can first request a consultation with Garden Sense and then visit the Qualified Water Efficient Landscapers (QWEL) website to find a contractor that can help complete the work. “People want to know what to do with the drought right now. They are very concerned, and what we are doing primarily is trying to help them get through it by prioritizing the plants that they want to keep, how to try and keep the plants they have and maybe think about not planting this year. Don’t plant annuals, hold off on perennials, and absolutely sheet mulch – or if you want to keep your lawn, don’t water it. These are just some of the guidelines we are trying to steer people towards,” Turrill said. H+L

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

SONOMA COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS To request an appointment for a Garden Sense consultation, call 565-2608 or visit sonomamastergardeners.org, where you can also learn about lawn replacement, law water-use plants and sustainable landscaping. DAILY ACTS: Visit dailyacts.org for more information about free water-wise workshops, mulching and greywater. Check with your utility for rebates and programs: SONOMA COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICTS (serving Geyserville Sanitation Zone, Occidental County Sanitation District, Russian River County Sanitation District, Sea Ranch Sanitation Zone, Penngrove Sanitation Zone, Airport/Larkfield/Wikiup Sanitation Zone, and Sonoma Valley Sanitation Zone): 547-1918, sonomacountywater.org Bodega Bay Public Utility District: 875-3332 Bodega Water Company: 876-3257 City of Cloverdale Water Department: 894-1700 Forestville Water District: 887-1551 Geyserville Water System: 857-3163 City of Healdsburg: 431-3307 Russian River Utility: 887-7735 City of Sebastopol: 823-7863 SONOMA-MARIN HIGH EFFICIENCY CLOTHES WASHER REBATE: savingwaterpartnership.org Replace a top-loading clothes washer with a qualifying front-loading clothes washer and receive a rebate from participating water suppliers.

Faced with a drought and concerns about how to most efficiently use limited amounts of water, people are rethinking their conventional irrigation techniques. Drip irrigation systems deliver water at low-volume and pressure precisely where you want it to go, from potted plants on your patio to multiple plant zones covering 10 acres. “The basics are easy for the beginner to learn – and it’s affordable,” said Chad Griffith, a long-time certified irrigation designer for Harmony Farm Supply & Nursery in Sebastopol. “You can irrigate a lot with a little bit of water. There’s much less evaporation of the water, and it’s better for disease

prevention,” Griffith said. He pointed out

to run an entire landscape off of one drip

overhead sprinklers also irrigate foliage,

irrigation zone,” Griffith said.

which can be an incubator for fungus and

He noted the most basic system costs

disease, but drip irrigation delivers water

about $100; adding automation will run

only on the roots, resulting in well-wa-

about $100 more. “The idea is: you start

tered, healthier plants.

somewhere. Come in and we’ll give you

Drip irrigation systems work fairly sim-

some drip tubing, a pressure regulator

ply. “Drip irrigation conveys water through

that screws into your faucet, a filter and

low pressure, low-volume plastic tubing

some emitters. Then you go home, put it

directly to your plants, where the water

together and try to water those 20 plants.

drips out of an emission device called an

Usually, everyone is successful,” he said.

emitter. When the water drips, it moves

Irrigation designers are on-site at

quite well in the soil through capillary

Harmony Farm seven days a week to help

action. If your emitters are spaced evenly

everyone from do-it-yourselfers to those

every 12 inches, you get an even distribu-

in need of extensive systems. Detailed

tion of water,” Griffith said.

information about drip irrigation, including

“Emitters traditionally run at 1- to 2-gallons per hour at each location, so a

installation and maintenance, can also be found at harmonyfarm.com.

little bit goes a long ways. It’s not unusual

DRIP IRRIGATION BASICS

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

Bloomin’ Backyards Garden Tour

AAUW Healdsburg Homes Tour

photo by: Phil Wright

HOME & GARDEN TOURS

SCMAA Garden Tour

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

t’s the season of home and garden tours – when seekers of the sublime (and the curious) visit some of our county’s most beautiful natural spaces to gain inspiration and information. The tours welcome you into a variety of thoughtfully selected private homes and gardens; one gives you access to resort and spa properties. There’s something enticing about walking through someone’s private property to see what’s been designed, accomplished and created. No doubt many of us will be dazzled by the originality of both the small and large gardens and homes on the tours. While the power of flowers remains alluring, water management and conservation takes its place this year in a prominent way, as the drought requires prudent (if not stringent) use of water. Master Gardeners and landscape professionals will be standing by to answer questions and offer advice about topics such as low water-use plants, lawn removal, greywater systems and drip irrigation. An added benefit to going on these tours is that ticket proceeds benefit worthy causes that support services in our communities. The 2014 tour organizers are: Healdsburg American Association of University Women, Sonoma County Medical Alliance Association and Foundation, Sonoma-Marin Water Saving Partnership, Sonoma County Master Gardeners, Food for Thought Sonoma County AIDS Bank and West County Health Centers. photo by: Rebecca Gosselin

photo by: Rebecca Gosselin

by Patricia M. Roth

HOME + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

AAUW Healdsburg Homes Tour (left & right) | SCMAA Garden Tour (bottom)

24TH ANNUAL AAUW HEALDSBURG HOMES TOUR Date: May 4 Time: Check-in 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | Tour 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Details & Tickets ($35/advance, $40/day of) healdsburgaauw.com Focus: Insider’s tour of Healdsburg, featuring six diverse homes. Proceeds benefit

local education and scholarships for women. For the past 24 years, the AAUW Healdsburg Homes Tour has attracted visitors to the town of Healdsburg. “Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience fine Sonoma County living from the inside out,” note tour publicists. Whether your taste is simple and sophisticated or rustic and retro, you’ll find inspiration inside the six Healdsburg homes you encounter on the tour. The tour begins at the Healdsburg Museum, where you can purchase a ticket (if you haven’t done so online), pick up a map and the house histories. From there you branch out on your own, stopping to visit homes and gardens chosen for their distinctive architecture, personal collections of furniture and decorative arts, echoes of the past or contemporary panache. Docents will point out the interesting architectural and design elements of each residence. Among the one-of-a-kind homes is an eclectic “barn house,” located two blocks off the Healdsburg Plaza. The owner is fairly new to town and to home decorating but she dove into this project with a passion. Influenced by her Norwegian father’s sense of restraint and her Mexican-American mother’s South Texas roots, the owner said she likes balance and continuity, a lot of texture and subtle color variation, and all things rustic. The American Association of University Women advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. Healdsburg AAUW serves Healdsburg, Windsor, Geyserville and Cloverdale.

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

SONOMA COUNTY MEDICAL ALLIANCE ASSOCIATION AND FOUNDATION GARDEN TOUR Date: May 16-17 Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Details & Tickets ($45) 578-4537, alliance@scmaa.org scmaa.org Focus: Healdsburg gardens that

enhance their natural surroundings while bringing in the feeling of peace to outdoor living. Proceeds benefit SCMAA Foundation grant awardees, including the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County, Healthcare Foundation Northern Sonoma County for the Healthy Farm Worker Families Fund and more. SCMAA’s annual springtime fundraiser has attracted nearly 1,000 visitors year after year. This year’s 23rd Annual Garden Tour – The Charming Gardens of Healdsburg

– features five “in town” gardens and two “country” gardens. The gardens are relaxing, beautiful spaces ranging from an ‘English garden but with Mediterranean plants’ to an ‘East Coast meets West Coast’ garden and a ‘French contemporary’ garden. “We present one charming garden whose owners have a love of roses and another whose garden is evolving into a reasonably drought-tolerant sanctuary for birds, bees and butterflies,” organizers said, adding, “The attention to detail of integrating how garden spaces will be used also brings in creative and artistic solutions with steel, wood and stone landscaping.” Many added features enhance the two-day celebration; you can meet artist Winnifred Werner as she paints in a garden and children’s book author Sandy Baker, whose stories weave together the magic of gardening and nature. There will

Succulents and other drought-resistant plants, seen during last year’s SCMAA Garden Tour

SCEIP FINANCING

Making Home Upgrades Possible Did you know the County of Sonoma provides financing for energy efficiency, water conservation and renewable energy improvements? With SCEIP Financing, you can start saving energy, saving money, and living more comfortably today.

Why is SCEIP Financing Different? • Finance up to 10% of your property value • No credit check or income qualification • 10 or 20 year term • Fixed interest rate • Over 90 eligible improvements Call us for information at (707) 565-6470.

SONOMACOUNTY ENERGY.ORG HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

Organic Vegetable Starts Bulk & Bag Soils Water Harvesting & Storage Tanks Greenhouses Organic Fertilizers Gardening Supplies

894-3500

320 Santana Dr. Cloverdale (South Cloverdale Exit - East Side of Hwy. 101) Soil King, your garden’s destination!

WWW.THESOILKING.COM

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

also be live music, box lunches, door prizes and raffles. The SCMAA is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to the promotion of health in Sonoma County through education, community service programs and advocacy. They have raised and distributed more than $500,000 since 1991.

APPROVAL

ECO-FRIENDLY GARDEN TOUR

10 % OFF

WITH MENTION OF THIS AD Expires 9-30-14

WEED WACKERS HIGH WEED MOWERS ROTOTILLERS LOCALLY OWNED

HEALDSBURG • 431-3544 WINDSOR • 838-4373 FULTON • 544-0501 with additonal locations in

UKIAH & SANTA ROSA

The Japanese Kyoto-style garden at Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary will be featured at this year’s Resorts in Bloom tour (top). Master Gardeners will show “summer-dry” gardens during the Bloomin’ Backyards Garden Tour (right).

HOMES + LIFESTYLES SPRING 2014

Date: May 17 Client: Aaction Rents Time: 10 a.m.-4Ad p.m. title/slug:

Run date: 4-24-14

Details & Tickets (free) approval due by: Returned savingwaterpartnership.org Scheduled to run in: H&L Spring 2014

supports Qualified Water Efficient Please check this proof carefully for errorsThe andtour omis-

Focus: Public outreach program that supports professionals by featuring sions. Your signature below constitutesLandscaper acceptance(QWEL) of

full responsibility all errors,and omissionstheir andclients’ legal and Russian River-Friendly Landscapefor Guidelines gardens that have implemented ethical compliance in QWEL this document. Sonoma West water management. Funds raised benefit appropriate irrigation systems and plant selections. Publishers will not accept liability for errors overlooked professionals. at this stage of proofing. Any changes from “Weyour see the benefit of trying to inspire people by previThe self-guided Garden ouslyEco-Friendly approved copy will beTour charged extra according showing themtoother gardens that have successfully both time and materials. Advertiser to pay promotes sustainable gardening practices by show-agrees taken outapproturf and put in beautiful landscapes and production in the curcasing inspiringpriate homerates gardens throughoutcosts the as specified that are water-efficient and have other qualities,” rent rate card. All conditions of the latest rate card apply. North Bay Area. “The emphasis on what we do Plumb said. is water efficiency how gardens OKand AS highlighting IS can adhere to Russian River-friendly GuideYour signature and date BLOOMIN’ BACKYARDS GARDEN lines – landscape locally, nurture the soil, wildlife TOUR & MARKET OK with corrections - no further proof needed habitat, conserve water, energy and air, and less to Date: June 8 the landfill,” said Sonoma County Water Agency Your signature and date Time: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Programs Specialist Gregory Plumb. ($35/advance, $40 day of) 2ND PROOF REQUIRED - I authorize aTickets $10 charge The tour is free, funded by the Sonoma-Marin sonomamastergardeners.org and date Water Saving Partnership. This Your year,signature Plumb said Designed by: Jim Schaefer they are seeing a big peak in interest in gardens on 3-19-14 Focus: Home gardeners can learn how to apply with rainwater catchment and greywater systems; scientifically based techniques taught and used by turf replacement is on everyone’s radar, too. Master Gardeners.

Sonoma County Master Gardeners chose the theme “Gardening in a Summer-Dry Climate” for its educational tour that takes you to the Sonoma Valley gardens of four Master Gardeners and the Master Gardeners’ community project at Sonoma Garden Park. Home gardeners can learn a great deal about gardening in our county’s Mediterranean summer-dry climate. You’ll find out how gardeners met their site challenges with creative solutions suited to their land and lifestyles. You’ll see beautiful garden design with low-water-use plants and gain expert advice about growing low water-use vegetables, lawn replacement, nurturing the soil, using mulch for moisture retention and weed control, composting, drip irrigation, backyard vineyards, beneficial insects and bees and more. An additional feature of this tour includes a plant sale and crafts market. Water-wise plants ideally suited to Sonoma County and a selection of bird houses, mosaics, succulent wreaths and other garden-inspired crafts (created by Master Gardeners) will be for sale. 2014 WESTERN SONOMA COUNTY HOME & GARDEN TOUR Date: June 8 Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Details & Tickets ($45) fftfoodbank.org Focus: Diverse West County gardens, including two

homes, and the Food for Thought garden. Funds raised benefit clients of the Food for Thought Sonoma County AIDS Food Bank. About 400 guests are expected to flock to Food for Thought’s 19th annual Western Sonoma County Home & Garden Tour featuring six gardens, from wild to contemporary, as well as FFT’s own edible garden, which helps to serve the 700 clients of the Sonoma County AIDS Food Bank. Two homeowners are also inviting people to tour their residences. Longtime FFT volunteer Shirley Liberman started the Garden Tour and ran it for 18 years, changing the way funds were raised for the thensmall organization. A former San Francisco realtor, bakery owner and tour guide, Liberman’s idea to put “absolutely private gardens” on tour was challenging at first and she scoured West County neighborhoods for gardens of interest. “The first year we were thrilled to get five gardens (one was her own), and we were amazed that we sold 100 tickets. We built it from there,” she said. The events have since raised more than $300,000 for the Forestville-based nonprofit, FFT Development Director Beth Wolfer said. For the 2014 tour, volunteer Laurie Plant has taken on the role of Garden Tour coordinator. She said visitors will see “a range of gardens…a

redwood forest park-like, magical garden; a lovely edible garden on different levels; a huge, kind of wild and sprawling French Provencal-type of garden; a small, exquisite contemporary garden; a sprawling decorative garden featuring ramps to make it completely wheelchair accessible; and a garden with a Southwestern contemporary feel that includes hardscape and a lot of native plants.” Plant invites people to come to FFT and pick up a boxed lunch to picnic on-site or enjoy in one of the other gardens. Refreshments will also be served at FFT Antiques in Sebastopol. “The Garden Tour is a huge source of funding. With that funding, we spend money on food for our clients, for whom we provide comprehensive nutrition – men, women and children in the county affected by HIV or AIDS,” Wolfer said. RESORTS IN BLOOM Date: June 14-15 Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Details & Tickets ($30 per day) resortsinbloom.com Focus: Resorts open their doors for public touring of

historical landmarks, rare plants, meditation gardens and more. Proceeds benefit patient care at West County Health Centers’ six sites. West County Health Centers kicks off its weekend Resorts in Bloom tours with two VIP events: a reception at VML Winery in Healdsburg on Friday, June 13, followed by a wine tasting on Saturday, June 14 (location to be announced). Tickets to these events include a pass to the weekend garden tour. The tour itself promises to be a relaxing one as you stroll through resort properties with beautifully maintained gardens, accommodations, spa experiences and fine dining options in Western Sonoma County. You’ll have access to 10 properties that organizers describe as having “immaculate gardens staffed and manicured to every last detail by master gardeners who tend to some of nature’s most precious gifts.” For instance, the Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary in Freestone has a serene meditation garden created to promote inner peace and sensory awareness. The authentic Kyoto-style Japanese garden is ranked among the top Japanese gardens in North America. The Raford Inn in Healdsburg overlooks more than 100 acres of vineyards and is ringed by redwood-forested mountains. VML Winery, in the heart of the Russian River Valley, features a sensory garden that emulates the flavors and aromas found in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Proceeds from the tour help provide medical, dental and mental health care to uninsured children, seniors, homeless people, low-income families and many others who are in need. H+L

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CALENDAR April 26 HOW TO GROW BERRIES: Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Master Gardener Gwen Kichherr will teach how to grow these fruits and enjoy their bounties from spring until fall frost, with just a few rows of plants. Free. Windsor Regional Library, 9291 Old Redwood Hwy. Bldg. 100, Windsor. 565-2608, sonomamastergardeners.org. April 26 BASICS OF DRIP IRRIGATION. 9-10:30 a.m. Chad Griffith of Harmony Farm Supply & Nursery will cover the basics of residential and small agricultural irrigation systems, including common components, design concepts and proper scheduling. Q&A follows for questions beyond beginners. Harmony Farm Supply and Nursery, 3244 Gravenstein Hwy. North, Sebastopol. Free. 823-9125, harmonyfarm.com. April 26-27 OCCIDENTAL ARTS AND ECOLOGY CENTER SUMMER PLANT SALE. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Take home heirloom, open-pollinated and 100% California Certified Organic plants, including beautiful and often rare varieties. 15290 Coleman Valley Rd, Occidental. Nursery, 874-9591; OAEC office, 874-1557 x101, oaec.org. May 3 CULINARY HERBS. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Master Gardener Janet Barocco will discuss and demonstrate how to plant a home herb garden, including cultivation, use and preservation of culinary herbs and edible flowers. Rohnert Park-Cotati Regional Library, 6250 Lynne Conde Way, Rohnert Park. sonomamastergardeners.org. May 3 PLANT4BEES: Forage for Honey, Bees in all 4-Seasons. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Learn how to create a garden that can provide flowers high in nectar and pollen. Master Gardener Cheryl Veretto will discuss helping honeybees and other pollinators survive in your garden year-round while you enjoy the beauty of a bee sanctuary and pollinator oasis. Free. Sebastopol Regional Library, 7140 Bodega Ave., Sebastopol. sonomamastergardeners.org. May 3-4 OAEC SUMMER PLANT SALE. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (See April 26-27) Nursery, 874-9591; OAEC office, 874-1557 x101, oaec.org. May 10 GARDEN DESIGN FOR YEAR-ROUND COLOR. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Master Gardener Linda King’s love of and eye for design in the garden is clear in her discussion of how to use leaf

color and texture to create year-round color and interest in any garden. Free. Guerneville Regional Library, 14107 Armstrong Woods Rd., Guerneville. sonomamastergardeners.org. May 10 BASICS OF DRIP IRRIGATION. 9-10:30 a.m. (See April 26 description) Free. Harmony Farm Supply and Nursery, 3244 Gravenstein Hwy. North, Sebastopol. 823-9125, harmonyfarm.com. May 10 LIVE HIVE INSPECTION. Noon-3:30 p.m. Bring protective gear. Learn to ID eggs, larvae, capped brood, workers, drones, queens, pollen, nectar, honey, wax, propolis and varroa mites. Bee safety tips. $45. Beekind, 921 Gravenstein Hwy. South, Sebastopol. 834-2905, beekind.com May 17 HONEY BEES, POLLINATORS AND HONEY MAKERS. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Join Master Gardener Denny Pedersen for a talk about the secret life of the honeybee, including what it’s like to live in a honeybee colony. Also: being a Bee Keeper; how to help busy, fragile honeybees; and plants to grow for bees in Sonoma County, especially in a low-water use year. Free. Windsor Regional Library, 9291 Old Redwood Hwy. Bldg. 100, Windsor. 565-2608. May 24 BASICS OF DRIP IRRIGATION. 9-10:30 a.m. (See April 26 description) Free. Harmony Farm Supply and Nursery, 3244 Gravenstein Hwy. North, Sebastopol. 823-9125, harmonyfarm.com. May 31 PLANNING AND DESIGNING A LOW WATER-USE GARDEN. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Master Gardener Linda King will discuss how swales and berms and the right plants in the right places can create beauty and use water wisely. Free. Petaluma Regional Library, 100 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. sonomamastergardeners.org June 14 CONTINUED HIVE MANAGEMENT. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Re-queening, overwintering and continued hive management throughout the year. $30. Beekind, 921 Gravenstein Hwy. South, Sebastopol. 834-2905, beekind.com. EXTRACTING THE GOODS. 2-5:30 p.m. Demonstration on how to extract honey from the hive. Hands-on. $30. Beekind, 921 Gravenstein Hwy. South, Sebastopol. 707-834-2905, beekind.com.

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