Residents of Napa Valley benefit from a climate that allows for year-round gardening, according to Cindy Watter, a UC Master Gardener of Napa County. Unlike gardeners in colder regions who have downtime during winter, those in California must stay active throughout the year.
Watter describes her ongoing struggle with privet stumps in her yard, noting that the invasive plant is difficult to remove and can become hazardous if not fully dug out. She credits her success in removing stubborn privet roots to a forest adze, a tool commonly used by firefighters. “The forest adze may not be the most romantic of gifts, but it is a life-enhancing joy for me. First, it does the job. Second, it is so well balanced that even an arthritic oldie can wield it successfully,” she said.
Privet (Ligustrum), originally imported from Europe but native to Asia, has become invasive in many states. It was initially popular for hedges and topiary due to its rapid growth and evergreen leaves. However, privet can spread aggressively and displace native plants. Birds help disperse its seeds, while its flowers attract bees but also produce pollen that may cause allergies; all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested by children or animals.
Watter notes that although some garden books claim privets grow up to eight feet tall, specimens in her neighborhood exceed this height significantly. She advises those considering planting privet to choose sterile varieties and maintain regular pruning to prevent spreading.
Proper tool maintenance is another focus for Watter. She recounts using vinegar and baking soda as an alternative to chemical rust removers for cleaning her Felco clippers: “I put the clippers in a non-reactive glass bowl and poured the vinegar/soda solution over them… The next day I rinsed them off and lightly rubbed them with steel wool. Now the clippers are rust free, smooth to the touch, and a pleasure to use.”
With well-maintained tools, Watter plans further garden improvements such as replacing an underperforming butterfly bush with ‘Amistad’ salvia—a plant requiring less water and pruning.
UC Master Gardeners of Napa County will offer a free online talk titled “Favorite Greens to Grow in Spring” on Thursday, February 5 from 7 pm to 8 pm via Zoom. The session will cover topics including water needs, microclimate considerations, sun exposure and soil quality for growing cool-weather greens.
Gardeners seeking advice can contact the Master Gardener Help Desk through their online Plant Problem Help Form or by emailing mastergardeners@countyofnapa.org. In-person assistance is available at the University of California Cooperative Extension Office at 1710 Soscol Avenue on Mondays and Fridays between 10 am and 1 pm.
Reference: The New Sunset Garden Book (pp. 411-412).
