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Exotic Gardens
San Diego succulent expert and grower Carl Dykema has moved his nursery from Hillcrest to 2212 El Cajon Boulevard. For three years, Carl drove past the location, midway between Park and Texas, in hopes that he could one day relocate. In July 2006, after maintaining a business for seven years on University Avenue, Carl moved to his desired location. The new location is 4 or 5 times larger and has room for larger quantities of plants, and larger specimens.
Exotic Gardens stocks locally grown aloes, bromeliads, cacti, staghorn ferns, imported pottery, and much more; including over 100 species of succulents. In order to better serve a clientele that includes collectors, home gardeners and landscape designers, Carl says, "I grow most of the plants myself from seeds and cuttings, to keep my prices low. Many uncommon varieties are only available as seeds. I like to show some of the wide diversity of shapes, forms, and colors Mother Nature has to offer."
Carl's passion for Exotic Gardens began when a neighbor left him a collection of succulents. To learn to care for them, Carl joined the S.D. Cactus & Succulent Society, read the books from their large library, and learned from monthly meetings with other members. Carl shares a particular concern for habitat preservation and conservation issues.
San Diego's unique mild climate and low rainfall make it ideally suited for growing succulents outside in landscapes. Unlike lawns, succulents can survive months-long droughts and still look good, while providing a more dramatic and colorful look to a landscape. For more information on how to create your own exotic garden, visit our neighbor Carl Tuesday through Sunday, between 10 am and 6 pm.
