January is almost over, and in California spring comes early. The rolling Sonoma County hills are emerald green, the trees are starting to bud, and there are signs of new life everywhere. But while the days are starting to get longer, we are still savoring what’s left of winter.

This time of quiet and reflection prepares us for the renewal to come. It’s an opportunity to remember to slow down. To heal. To find peace in ourselves and to build our reserves for the growth ahead.

We’re excited for all that’s to come this spring and summer, and we’re starting now with a few classes focused on health and wellness. Taking care of ourselves is a radical act. We can’t expand, make change, or share our gifts if we’re not creatively, physically, and emotionally nourished.

Over the next month spend a few hours, or a whole day if you can, to sit, reflect, read, cook, and sleep. And come wander the garden, bring some friends for a guided tour, or join us for a class to prepare for spring’s reawakening.

A small group of WHG staff, volunteers, and interns recently spent a morning exploring Filoli. Most of us had never been before, and it was wonderful touring the grounds, seeing “behind the scenes” in the nursery and propagation areas, and imagining what living there must have been like for the Bourn and Roth families. It’s always instructive to learn how other public gardens talk about their work, present their collection, and share their treasures. Thanks to Jim Salyards (Director of Horticulture) and Jackie Salas (Horticulture Production Manager) for taking the time to answer our questions and show us around!

Building on the success of our NOURISH solstice event last December, we are thrilled to announce a full year of seasonal experiences in partnership with Morihouse for 2024.

Save the date for Awaken: a celebration of spring on Saturday, March 16th from 10-4pm. Advance tickets are $40. More information on what we’re planning is available through the link below. Expect delicious food + drink, inspiring garden tours, engaging activities, and sensory experiences to fill up your soul. We’ll release tickets to the general public later this week so reserve now if you know you’d like to attend.

Our camellias are bursting! WHG is fortunate to have dozens of camellia trees and shrubs. Winter brings blooms that linger through spring and later become beautiful seed pods which we use for holiday ornaments. Below is a sampling of just a few of our varietals.

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Western Hills Garden is a fiscally-sponsored nonprofit organization with a mission to link people, plants, and place to possibility. Support our work by visiting the garden, becoming a member, spreading the word about us, or making a tax-deductible donation.