Re: Concern for us collectors(Please Read)
Connie - We are located at 3000' in the Sierra Nevada foothills in
Northern California. In the four or so years I have had the garden
here, I have planted many things which I never could grow in more
coastal areas of California. I am trying to be very careful that
nothing strays into the surrounding forest, which is kind of intertwined
with my plantings.
It is obvious that the Mediterranean rain pattern, with no measurable
rain from May through October, would discourage many things which
fluorish in more eastern states. But Scotch Broom is obviously a
problem here, and it seems to thrive near the highways, with no summer
rain. Since I have also seen it in Ireland where there is alot of rain,
I guess there is no easy way to tell for sure. I do know that many
things which list members say are invasive for them in other places can
only be kept alive here with great care.
We have twenty acres higher up in the Sierras at 6600', but it is about
20 miles away, as the crow flies. I mentioned once that I had brought a
flowering plant down and planted it near my house. It didnt live
anyway, but I have since seen similar plants down here, though I have
not checked to be positive they were the same. Someone on a list said I
should not do that. I see the logic in that I suppose, but I dearly
love to have wonderful plants from other places here, and if they can be
shown to cause no problems, I will probably continue to "collect" until
I run out of space, or energy. For me, it is a connection with the rest
of the world, which I would love to be able to continually survey in its
original habitat. If I couldn't have fascinating and amazing plants
where I live, I would have to have one of those science fiction machines
to instantly transport me to various locations around the world. Give
me that, and I would gladly live here with my natives. If I couldn't
have either, I would probably give up and say, "Plants are interesting
to look at, but I am a bit bored with the ones which are native here, so
I think I'll find another interest."
Anelle
