More on grafting, including videos, plus other resources for info on fruit and nut trees

Tips on picking and storing, a glossary and a list of scab-immune apple varieties are included.

Community Calendar

Pruning Deciduous Fruit Trees: University of Davis Cooperative Extension Contra Costa County offers a free two-hour lecture covering basic pruning concepts: why we prune, types of cuts, pruning systems and more. 10 a.m.-noon, Feb. 10, Diablo Valley Farm Center, 3010 Second St., Knightsen.

A spectacular island getaway–hunk not included, unfortunately

I’m a genuine sea lover and I dream of having my own secluded, private island getaway, where I can stay in luxurious splendor living next to white sand and blue waters. My dream even includes a gorgeous six-packed hunk serving me a fruit cocktail as he emerges out of the water!

Cocktail Countdown: A Tempting New Year's Resolution

The holiday season may have passed, but that's no excuse not to indulge in a couple of hometown cocktails. At last it's time to put away the eggnog and Champagne for next year's celebrations and get down to some serious drinking with some local spirits.

Backyard Buffet: Homegrown fruit is ripe for picking

Anyone who owns a house with fruit trees on the property knows that this is the time of year when the backyard turns into a buffet of subtropical flavors.