If you’re looking to use that green thumb but don’t think you have the space or time, think again. Gardening in San Diego is simple and easy with the moderate climate, said Carolyn Chase, one of the EarthFair founders. Succulents and cactus are ideal as they require the least amount of time or space. For an urban vegetable garden, try lettuce, green onions or tomatoes on the balcony that gets any kind of sun. Pacific Beach has a few great community gardens where locals can rent out a spot of land and plant to their liking, while Cass Street’s Green Gardens offers those strapped for time “pre-grown” plants, otherwise known as pots already post-bud. If you want to simply brighten up your day with flowers, Chase suggests planting native San Diego flowers like poppies that don’t require as much water and are capable of growing in San Diego’s climate. The best advice she can give is steer away from the cliché — don’t assume your front yard looks best with a big patch of grass, Chase said. Instead, save water and showcase your personality with a little bit of pop and color from plants that require less maintenance than a weekly mowing. “San Diego has a great amount of green space that people can take advantage of,” Chase said. “Just get a pot and water.”








