How California Bells began…

I spent many happy years as an English professor and journalist. Gardening was my hobby. The pandemic quickly changed my focus and highlighted the importance of our local ecosystem. One plant at a time, I converted my yard to California natives and helped three neighbors do the same. When I returned to teaching, I joined the Edible Schoolyard program at Hollygrove Elementary. The experience of sharing gardening with the next generation inspired me to mix my passion for educating and native flowers by starting California Bells.

I am a Certified California Native Plant Landscaper, through the Theodore Payne Foundation, and continue my studies there and with UCLA Extension’s Sustainability Program.