John Latto's Garden
El Cerrito
Years gardened at this location: 2 years
Garden size: 6,000 square feet (1,000-square-foot garden in front; 2,000-square-foot garden in back)
Showcase feature: The spectacular wildflower display in spring (much loved by the neighbors), almost overshadows the interesting and unusual use of recycled materials. Cinder blocks were reused in the attractive back garden bench—yes, the one with the herbs growing out of it! The front path was created from left-over lumber. Raised beds in the front are bordered by moss rock. This lovely, water-conserving garden was designed and installed by the owner from the former "ratty lawn, over-aged shrubs, and clay soil."
Gardening for wildlife: Hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees are abundant—especially when the wildflowers are blooming.
Other garden attractions:
- A nice collection of perennials gives the front garden structure and color throughout the year.
- Solar-powered recirculating stream flows through the back garden, under a sweet bridge made from recycled 2x4s.
- Native plants receive no supplemental water.
- Grass clippings are left on the lawn.
- Don't miss the woven wattle trellisses in the back garden.
Garden Talks: 11:00 and 2:00 "A Stream for the Streamless: How to Install a Simple Solar-Powered Recirculating Stream."
Plants sold or given away: Native plants, reference books, posters, and Garden Tour t-shirts will be sold by the California Native Plant Society.