Escape to the Rainforest, Desert and Orchard in One Trip

One of our family traditions is to have a garden plot for each of the children where they can grow whatever plants they choose. I enjoy teaching gardening skills to children because it helps them learn responsibility and teaches them the value of hard work.

Our family grew so many tomatoes by the end of last summer that my children started an organic tomato stand and made a small fortune. Now, I find myself getting ready for the planting season again. I recently gathered the kids and headed to La Crescenta Nursery at 3654 La Crescenta Ave., just below Honolulu Ave.

La Crescenta Nursery is a perfect place to take the kids. Scattered throughout the premises amid the rainbow of flowers are dolphin topiaries, cigar store Indians and statues of African Cranes. The kids love to see if they can find a flower in every color- including blue and black.

On the east side of the parking lot is a massive greenhouse that is home to a seemingly endless rainforest of plants and flowers. My kids find the colored leaves and unique flowers appealing, while the giant wooden toucans and parrots add to the ambience. One day I would like to bring a book in this greenhouse, sit back and just read.

The rows and rows of painted pottery almost seem like an art museum with their color combinations and patterns. Just beyond the pottery is a bonsai garden with about 50 different bonsai trees on display.

Rows of full size trees and citrus are home to native birds that dodge in and out of branches. It is almost like walking in a mini forest, with little painted deer and mountain sheep tucked about the bases of the trees.

The main building is home to beautiful orchids and garden accents like ceramic mushrooms, Victorian reflection orbs and a wall of Buddhas in every color and size. La Crescenta Nursery also has plenty of corn, artichokes, peppers, cucumbers, beans, strawberries, and herbs to choose from.

But, it is the tomato plants seem to call us from across the nursery. The children are excited to spot some new varieties such as Brandywine Pink, Black Zebra, and Orange Pear. I think the kids are hoping these unique varieties will bring in extra cash at their tomato stand this year.

Load up the family or just take off by yourself for this little gardening escape through the rainforest, desert and even the farm, right here in town.