44°F
weather icon Partly Cloudy
Some cactus fruit must be eaten with caution

Question: I would love to plant op-a-la-ah (not sure of spelling) cactus, the kind that looks like Mickey Mouse ears and grows red cactus pears, also known as prickly pears. Several of my neighbors have them. The problem is the tiny stickers on the fruit. I have heard that there is a variety that does not have stickers. Please advise me what they are called.

Rim-to-rim canyon hike a peak experience

Of all the ways one could see the Grand Canyon, one of the very best is to hike across it, rim to rim. It is a tough physical hike, and the logistics are complicated, as you need to get camping permits in advance and arrange transportation from the destination rim back to the trailhead where you presumably left your vehicle.

Water district says bubbly water no cause for concern

Maybe you think it’s New Year’s Eve in July with all that champagne-like bubbly pouring out of your water faucet. Well, I hate to burst your bubble, but one taste and you know it’s not champagne, nor is it any other white sparkling wine. Yes, indeed, it’s just plain tap water.

THE LATEST
‘Get Outside’ guides readers through outdoor amusement opportunities

It’s true: You’re bored, and nothing’s fun. So maybe it’s time to make your own fun, with help from your siblings and friends. Grab “Get Outside” by Jane Drake and Ann Love, illustrated by Heather Collins, and bring your imagination.

Sensitive loquat requires sun protection

Question: I planted a five gallon loquat in my front yard three months ago in April. It seemed to be taking just fine at first. A few weeks ago, I noticed the older leaves were beginning to turn brown, and the newer leaves seem to be shriveling up. When I purchased it, I was told it was OK to plant in full sun. During this heat, I drip water it every two days. I estimate it receives about six gallons per watering. I check the soil regularly to make sure the soil is not drying out. Any thoughts?

Pesky bugs make protecting basil difficult

Question: This picture I sent to you shows my chewed Genovese basil. If you enlarge the picture you will see small insects resembling those who ate the leaves of the plant. What can I do without poisoning my basil?

Big Bear has many summer excursions in one

If you are looking for a great summer destination that affords cool temperatures and more outdoor opportunities than you would expect in any town, consider pointing your wagon toward Big Bear Lake, Calif.

Proximity to health care still important to Sun City, Siena residents

Once upon a time, sales agents eager to sell new homes at such senior communities as Sun City Summerlin and Siena at Summerlin cajoled prospective buyers with promises that appropriate health care facilities for the Summerlin area were in the offing.

‘Muskrat for Supper’ is a book nature lovers will eat up

It was hard staying focused in school this year. The problem was the window in the classroom. In the fall, you watched birds fly south, and you imagined them calling to one another. Winter teased you with outdoor challenges and fresh, brisk air. And in the spring, when wildlife is most active? Well, you might as well not be in school at all.

1 86 87 88 89 90 103