California has unique and varying growing conditions. This easy-to-use guide for California gardens gives you step-by-step instructions on selecting and growing for more than 150 low-maintenance plants and shrubs that thrive in diverse California, including annuals, perennials, vines, shrubs, and trees. In addition, you"ll find gardening basics for maximum result, such as: The benefits of one-time soil preparation The secret of summer and winter mulching The "less is more" fertilization technique that keeps your plants in perfect shape The best methods for irrigation Tips on keeping your plants pest free without over-using traditional pest controls