Environmental News

A curated set of environmental news stories brought to you by the Gottlieb Native Garden team.

3 Ways to Protect Your Soil

Beneath the urban landscapes of California lies a diverse ecosystem, teeming with invertebrates and microbes. Soil acts as a carbon sink, filters water and provides essential nutrients to plants. Maintaining healthy soil is critical for these functions. 

Ann Wright: The love of native Plants

Manzanita is one of a myriad of native plants that not only grace our Demonstration Garden, but thrive in our area of the world. After moving to Nevada County nearly 15 years ago, my appreciation for native plants has grown deeper – I really love native plants!

Professor shares new naturalist handbook at Sierra Valley talk

The Feather River Land Trust announces that Professor Adina Merenlender will discuss “The California Naturalist Handbook” in a free talk Feb. 13 at the Sierra Valley Preserve Nature Center. The presentation begins at 6 p.m.

Does all this rain mean we’re in for a wildflower superbloom? We asked an expert

This on-and-off rain is looking like good news … for wildflower lovers.

Plants for Birds in Your Backyard

Check out these Plants for Birds cards at Los Nogales Nursery!

‘Rip out the grass’: Desert expert says residents can help save native species with simple yard changes

Speaking at a Mizell Center talk hosted by the city library, The Living Desert’s Dr. James Danoff-Burg pointed to a beetle found only in Palm Springs as a vivid example of what’s at stake in preserving Coachella Valley biodiversity.

California closes in on completing the world’s largest wildlife crossing

The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing will receive funding that provides the final push needed to complete the project.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Marks 100 Years as California’s Native Plant Champion

In 2026, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden will mark 100 years as the first botanic garden in the United States dedicated exclusively to native plants. Since its founding in 1926, the Garden has remained rooted in one guiding principle: that native plants are essential for the health and well-being of both people and the planet.

Ask a Master Gardener: How to grow native wildflowers

California native plants are excellent choices for your landscape. Many are naturally drought-tolerant and water-wise. They require little or no pruning, no fertilizing, and most are resistant to pests and diseases. Another important reason to “go native” is that these plants support native pollinators, including butterflies, bees, and native birds.

 

Spring is Here Early for L.A. Plant Lovers

The next few weeks bring conventions, sales and expeditions to the world of rare flora