The Ojai Garden

Thirty people came to the City of Ojai Community Demonstration Garden on October 22nd to learn how to care for the oaks on their property. Arborist and horticulturist Michael Inaba, who spoke for almost three hours, provided an in depth look at oaks, and explained when and where to plant near them.
Mike gave a detailed explanation of various factors that affect oaks, such as soil, light and seasons.
Participants learned about soil structure, texture, and more. Mike explained how fungi in the soil help oak trees, and showed the group beneficial fungi that he found in the soil just a few feet from where we were sitting. Mike also demonstrated how to determine what kind of soil texture you have by simply using a jar and water and passed around branches so everyone could learn how to observe a tree's rate of growth. He covered pruning requirements as well. Finally, Mike discussed appropriate plants that are suitable for planting at the edge of the oak canopy, such as California native plants that grow in dry shade, irises and succulents. Photos by Les Dublin.