Butterflies make comeback on Coyote Ridge
Coyote Ridge, the hills east of U.S. 101 near Coyote Creek Golf Club, is once again ablaze with native wildflowers. Public tours are offered by docents from the Santa Clara County Open Space Authority (www.openspaceauthority.org ). I can tell you from experience that the hike is well worth the sight of the flowers and the breathtaking views of the Santa Clara Valley.
Vines may be dormant, but wineries are bustling
In the cold, dark days of winter, our grapevines go dormant. The grape vine stops the uptake of water from its roots to keep moisture from freezing and bursting inside the plant cells. Any remaining water inside the vine is transferred to an inter-cellular area where it can safely freeze without causing any damage. All growth is put on hold to conserve energy for the next growing season.
