San Francisco's big landscape show - San Francisco Landscape Garden Show

Sunset, April, 1989

Discovering new plants and landscaping ideas is one of the pleasures of gardening. And there's plenty to discover at the fourth annual San Francisco Landscape Garden Show, April 19 through 23 at Fort Mason Center's Pier 3.

This year's event highlights The California Garden, with more than 25 landscapes by Bay Area designers. Featured are gardens by two influential landscape architects, Garrett Eckbo and Robert Royston, leaders in developing contemporary California garden design.

The show divides the pier into a series of rooms. The first two contain impressive displays using mature plants, decks, fences, paths, and accessories. The next room holds Town Square, a marketplace selling tools, accessories, and books.

At the building's far end are displays by specialty growers, horticultural groups, and plant hobbyists. Experts give demonstrations here starting at noon. Look for flowers, shrubs, and trees suitable for Bay Area gardens. Also check out the miniature gardens designed by children.

New this year in the Firehouse by Pier 3 is a forum on Hardscape, organized by The Urban Farmer Store. Learn about decks, irrigation, lighting, and more.

Sponsored by Friends of Recreation and Parks, the show raises money for related programs in San Francisco. Hours are 10 to 6 daily (till 9 Thursday and Friday). Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, free for ages 12 and under with an adult; for group rates, call (415) 221-1310.

Muni buses go to the pier; call (415) 6736864. If you drive, there's shuttle service from Marina Green (weekdays) and Crissy Field lots (on the weekend).