The Gardens of Alcatraz

If you want to tour a unique garden setting in the San Francisco California area, visit the Gardens of Alcatraz for a memorable experience.

Victorian style gardens were originally planted in 1865 when the island was being used as a military prison. Over the years, the gardens were expanded to include hillside terraces, a rose garden, and a greenhouse.  In 1933 Alcatraz became a federal prison.  Inmates continued to maintain the gardens until the prison closed in 1963, at which point the gardens were abandoned.

It wasn't until 2003 that the Garden Conservancy, Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, and the National Park Service partnered to restore the now overgrown gardens.

The award winning Gardens of Alcatraz are open year-round except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.  The best time to visit is January through September.  There is no entrance fee, however there is a charge for the ferry operated by Alcatraz Cruises.

For more information, visit the Gardens of Alcatraz website.

The Mystery of the African Violet

Why doesn’t my African violet bloom?

It’s a question that I’d asked myself for years.  No kidding...years.  I tried everything…

Moving it to various locations to make sure it was getting enough, but not too much, light…
Nothing

Carefully watering based on recommendations from my local nursery…
Nada

Using fertilizer specially made for African violets...
Not happening

Transplanting to a larger pot with improved soil...
Zip

Then I bought a Thirsty Light.  The reason for my purchase had nothing to do with the African violet saga. It just seemed like a great way to help me remember to water my houseplants. But, just weeks after adding a Thirsty Light to the pot, my African violet bloomed!   I’m still not entirely sure what was wrong with my watering routine. I’m just happy that Thirsty Light has made it right.

Mystery solved!