Last week, I felt the urge to visit San Francisco's Strybing Arboretum, where I used to volunteer. Years ago, I worked in its greenhouses, repotting, propagating and pruning its diverse plant collection. Due to the many micro climates this arboretum is able to host, it is a virtual wonderland showcasing plants from all over the world. My favorite ones originate from New Zealand and/or are native to California. Returning to the arboretum reminded me of a very special time in my life and validated my continued passion for plants, which I hope to apply to our garden in the years to come.