Celebrating Ironwood 35 | Now Available Online

The digital edition of our latest Ironwood, the Garden’s bi-annual magazine, is now available. Celebrating a new chapter in our journey to conserve native plants and habitats across the Central Coast, this issue features a diverse collection of thought provoking and engaging stories we hope will inspire you to join the movement that ensures biodiversity thrives!

A Story of Conservation and Hope

Ironwood has long provided a platform for sharing the latest news and beauty of native plant conservation, and this issue is no exception. Issue 35 features an eclectic mix of short stories, history, scientific discovery, and even poetry. Written by our dedicated team and respected contributors, each article offers a unique perspective on why native plants are critical to the health of our planet – and ourselves! So, whether you’re a long-time reader or newly joining us, this issue promises to delight.

Highlights of Ironwood | Issue 35

1. Captivating Narratives: Raising up voices from around the Garden, this issue of Ironwood offers plenty of science and insight, but dare I also say, heart. From a tribute to gardening and gardeners and a reminder to let plants be your teachers to the many reasons to grow native plants and an invitation to reinvent your lawn – this is just the beginning.

2. How-to Guides: Empowering every reader with the knowledge needed to take action, Ironwood offers useful tips and tricks to begin (or continue) your native plant journey. In this issue you can learn how to help monarchs throughout the year, how to grow live-forevers (dudleya spp.) at home, and even how-to identify some of the most common ladybeetles.

3. Beauty: Ironwood is not just about words; it is also about the beauty of native plants. Working with staff, volunteer, and professional photographers, this issue is filled with images showcasing some of our favorite native plants as well as the people working together to conserve them.

4. Recommended Reading: Working in partnership with David Starkey, former poet laureate of Santa Barbara and long-time garden supporter, we bring poetry inspired by the Garden to life in each issue. In this issue we meet Chryss Yost, the 2013 Patricia Dobler Poetry Award recipient and former poet laureate of Santa Barbara, and her poem, “Forest Metaphorist.” We also offer a few staff picks of books and podcasts to continue learning.  

Join Us in Celebrating Native Plants

So, are you ready to dive into issue 35 and discover the creativity and passion that defines Ironwood? We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to this issue’s contributors, editorial staff, sponsors, and dedicated readers. With your support, we’re proud to bring this issue to life and believe it reflects the best of what Ironwood has to offer.

Get a Copy Delivered to Your Mailbox

While you can enjoy Ironwood online, it’s also available in print to our current Garden members. If you’re not a member yet, we invite you to explore our membership program and learn more about how you can support the conservation of native plants today!

Stay Connected

Our work doesn’t begin and end with Ironwood. Conserving native plants and habitats across the central coast keeps us busy throughout the year. Join our growing community and stay connected with us by becoming a member, subscribing to our newsletter, or following us on social. Through these channels you’ll receive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive invites to events and unique experiences.

Your support and engagement mean the world to us, and we are excited to continue this journey together. Happy Reading!