SANTA CRUZ
Orchid society to host monthly meeting
The Santa Cruz Orchid Society will meet at 7 p.m. Friday at the Live Oak Grange, 1900 17th Ave. Setup begins at 6:30 p.m.
Guest speaker Pierre Pujol will present on recent developments in cymbidium hybridizing, including award-winning plants and new seedlings. The talk will cover potting mixes, plant culture and breeding insights, with a focus on outcomes from hybrid crosses and variation among offspring.
Plants will also be available for a raffle. The meeting is open to orchid enthusiasts of all levels.
Attendees are also encouraged to visit the Santa Clara Valley Orchid Society’s Orchid Show and Sale, set for 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Yamagami Garden Center, 1361 S. De Anza Blvd., Cupertino.
For information, visit santacruzorchidsociety.org and scvos.com.
SANTA CRUZ
Coastal cleanup planned at Moran Lake Beach
A coastal cleanup will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at Moran Lake Beach in Santa Cruz.
Hosted by Clean Oceans International in partnership with Pitch In Santa Cruz County, the event invites volunteers of all ages to help remove debris and protect the local coastline. Participants can stay for any length of time, and volunteer hours are available.
Coffee and snacks will be provided, and attendees are encouraged to bring reusable mugs, gloves and buckets if available. Visit facebook.com/events/1286024352974935 for details.
WATSONVILLE
Mother’s Day garden party set at Birdsong Orchards
A Mother’s Day Garden Party and bouquet-building bar will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday at Birdsong Orchards, 613 Lakeview Road. The event includes light brunch, beverages and a hands-on bouquet-making experience with flowers and greenery provided. Guests can create and wrap their own arrangements, while children can participate in a Mother’s Day card-making activity. Admission is $25 for adults and $10 for children, with free entry for kids 3 and under. The farm stand will also be open. Find tickets at birdsongorchards.com.
SANTA CRUZ
Plant sale fundraiser supports local nonprofit
A plant sale fundraiser benefiting Nourishing Generations will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at 416 Cleveland Ave.
The event will feature a selection of succulents, including San Pedro cactuses, with proceeds supporting hands-on nutrition and culinary education programs in the community. Attendees are invited to shop, support a local nonprofit and take home plants.
The event is open to the public. Find info at facebook.com/events/1880375952618838.
APTOS
Mother’s Day tea set at Thomas Farm
A Mother’s Day tea will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Thomas Farm, 1690 Pleasant Valley Road, hosted by Farmhouse Hens.
The event invites guests to celebrate Mother’s Day in a relaxed farm setting with tea, light bites and time to gather with family and friends. Organizers describe the experience as a cozy spring afternoon designed to slow down, connect and enjoy simple pleasures in a scenic outdoor environment. Attendees are encouraged to bring loved ones and spend time together enjoying seasonal treats and conversation in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Tickets and information can be found at tinyurl.com/y9r69jjb.
SEASIDE
Outdoor workshop focusing on regenerative soil techniques
“Regenerative Soil Techniques for the Home Gardener,” will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Monterey Adult School, 1295 La Salle Ave. Hosted by UC Master Gardeners of Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties, the class will cover practical methods for improving soil health, including composting, mulching, cover cropping, vermicomposting and sheet mulching. Participants will learn how to build resilient soil systems that support healthier plants while conserving water.
The outdoor workshop includes time for questions and hands-on learning. For information, visit tinyurl.com/2t74pwst.
The Garden Digest is compiled by Jesselyn Rego. To submit items for the calendar including events, meetings, resources or anything garden related, email sentinelhomeandgarden@gmail.com.

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