The Sunset Magazine Garden

"Just living is not enough," said the butterfly.
"One must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower." Hans Christian Andersen

The Sunset Magazine garden is uniquely organized into five defined areas representing different climate zones in the Western United States. These areas are the Pacific Northwest, Northern California, Central California, Southern California, and the Southwest Desert. There is also a Test Garden where Sunset employees evaluate plants, devices and projects for coverage in its magazine.

The Lawn

The Lawn is a sprawling 1.2 acre expanse of short cut Astoria colonial bent grass. It is sometimes used for company and special events. The buildings in the background house the offices of the magazine and is in the early California style.

As you step out of the Reception area, a riot of colors greet you in this floral display of gold and red celosia surrounded by summer perennials like coneflowers and marigolds and anchored by a grapefruit tree in the foreground.

Editorial Test Garden

In the Editorial Test Garden I found this intriguing table with succulents growing along its central panel. It is without doubt a conversational piece. Across the way in the Pacific Northwest section of the gardens, mondo grass and impatiens fluorish in partial shade in contrast to the woodland plants behind which need full shade and moist conditions to grow.

Pacific Northwest Garden

In the Southwest Desert, cactus and succulents thrive in drought conditions. Below are various strains of agave. A tall sycamore tree inhabits the Southern California garden.

The Sunset Magazine gardens are open from 9-4 Mondays to Fridays. Admission is free. For more information please check the link below:

http://www.sunset.com/garden/landscaping-design/sunset-garden-tour-00400000015024/
80 Willow Road
Menlo Park, CA
Phone: (650) 321-3600

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