Stretch marks are no longer the only physical reminder of a child's birth for some moms. While most mothers have pictures of their kids proudly displayed on a shelf, increasingly, portraits of children are turning up tattooed into the skin of moms (and dads, too) who want a permanent remembrance of their offspring. Full story »

June is the last ideal time to plant citrus trees from containers and lay new lawns before summer heat makes successful planting difficult, say experts at Agromin, a Camarillo-based manufacturer of premium soil products. Full story »

For roses, carnations and mixed arrangements, the key is a clean vase, cool water and stems that are cut before adding to the vase. Full story »

For those who love the flavor of the Italian countryside, with its fresh vegetables and savory pasta, there is no better way to dabble in cuisine than by growing your own herbs. Full story »

Flowers, vegetables and lawns are entering their maximum growing months, and backyard gardeners can do much in May to help them thrive, say experts at Agromin, a Camarillo-based manufacturer of soil products. Full story »

The Las Virgenes Municipal Water District and its Joint Powers Authority partner, Triunfo Sanitation District, are inviting the public to join in the observation of International Compost Awareness Week, which begins Sunday. Full story »

One thing is certain: When Marge Aguirre is in pursuit of her heart's desire, there will be blood. Crimson blotches stain the knees of her pedal pushers. Scarlet specks bead up on her forearms. Full story »

They are the flower thief's favorite quarry. Hydrangea blossoms have been known to vanish overnight from front-yard gardens and public parks. Full story »

Green construction, solar power, outdoor living and do-it-yourself landscaping are among the trends reflected in home and garden tours across Ventura county this spring Full story »

Flowering plants appeared just 130 million years ago, which is modern history in evolutionary terms. For 300 years before the first flower, its predecessors were evolving from the most primitive single-celled algae to complex land plants. Oddly enough, many of these primitive fellows are still alive and well today. We're just not tuned into them because they lack color flowers. Yet these ancient denizens of the forest fill vital niches in the worldwide web of life. Full story »

This is the time of year that we love to get out in the garden, dig in the fresh soil, and see what new plants and flowers we can bring into our lives and our gardens. Full story »

Tulip planting is impossibly bipolar. It's split between spring and fall, making the span between ordering, planting and flowering at least seven months apart. What inspires us in early spring as these plants bloom is often a faded memory by the time fall bulb planting season rolls around. And when you begin to think about them for late summer catalog shopping, the choices become overwhelming. Full story »

Outside, buds are beginning to swell with new life, and grass is growing greener by the day. But if you're growing weary of waiting on Mother Nature, take matters into your own hands and create a green oasis in your home. Full story »

For years, the side yard of Jay and Sylvia Gonzalez's home in Reedley, Calif., was left bare and empty. When the couple went outside, it was usually to use the pool and covered patio in the backyard. Full story »

Getting the most out of a tomato garden takes water, sunshine, some fertilizer and a few tricks of the trade. These tips will help get you started. Full story »