I'm dreaming of a Baja Christmas.
Hello, again!
The recent cold mornings reminded me of an incredible adventure I had cycling down the Baja peninsula back in 2017. The rugged beauty of the desert plants - centuries-old saguaros, barrel cacti, and yuccas - left a lasting impression on me. While those exact plants don’t thrive in Kansas, our succulent department can bring a similar charm to your home.
Succulents are easy to care for, resilient, and perfect for creating unique, textured arrangements. They’ve become a customer favorite, from their home planters to patios like those at Wichita Brewing Company during the warm weather months! To keep your succulents thriving, we recommend ferti-lome Houseplant Hero Succulent and Cactus Plant Food, a liquid fertilizer that’s easy to use and highly effective.
Back in 2017, I joined a group of cyclists to ride 1,500 miles down the Baja peninsula over five weeks. It was unforgettable - kind people, stunning landscapes, and unbeatable $1 street tacos! Despite the challenges of managing food and water along the way, I decided I wanted to spend every winter in Baja.
Traveling through Baja wasn’t just a cycling journey - it was a discovery of stunning native plants and fascinating history. The towering cacti and unique flora often made me stop mid-ride to take it all in. Equally intriguing were the historic cathedrals that dotted the peninsula. These beautiful structures played a central role in shaping Baja’s communities. For cyclists, spotting a church steeple often meant finding nearby food, water, and (yes) a cold beer!
Although I didn’t make it south last year, I’m already planning this winter’s escape. Will it be Big Bend National Park in Texas, Arizona’s scenic deserts, or the rolling beauty of the Texas Hill Country? I haven't decided yet. One thing is for sure: I’m not staying in the cold!
Whether you’re dreaming of warm escapes or looking for ways to bring life to your winter home, we’ve got you covered with a large variety of succulents at both stores. Choose a few and create a fun planter (plants make great gifts!) Ask us for planting and care advice. We're happy to help.
If you’ve got any suggestions for a warm and adventurous destination, hit reply and let me know. I’d love to hear from you! Thanks for being part of our gardening community. I hope this season brings you joy, inspiration, and maybe even a little Baja spirit!
Your friend in the garden,
Marty Johnson
Owner - Johnson's Garden Centers
