ALBANY
Take your garden to the tropicsSAN JOSEWhen we heard that Bernal Heights' Four Star Video turned its new-releases room Into a mini garden store called Succulence, we had a hunch it would be great--and it is. As you'd expect, you'll find choice succulents, but also block buster vertical gardens set in repurposed planters. The back patio houses one-offs like glass terrariums and driftwood panels bearing air plants. 402 Cortland Ave.; 415/282-2212.SAN FRANCISCOLOAD UP ON Mason jars, boiling pots, and books on preserving your backyard bounty.--JOHANNA SILVERLOAD UP ON Arching agaves, Japanese maples, and bamboo.--J.C.An indie with heartDon't miss ... the cheapest way to explore Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Sequoia. During National Park Week, all 394 of the country's outdoor playgrounds open their gates free of charge. Apr 16-24; nps.gov/npweekThe South Bay has been waiting for a nursery like Green Design Outdoor Plants and Pottery (pictured). You won't find petunias or marigolds here. Instead, get wowed by rare tropical beauties like king protea (the national flower of South Africa) and planted palms taller than you 10-year-old. Zen garden geeks will thrill in the outdoor art, including Vietnamese fountains and reclining Buddhas. 415 Meridian Ave.; 408/289-1900.LOAD UP ON Perennials in 4-inch pots, vintage roses, and drought-tolerant groundcovers.--JULIE CHAIFlowerland has been peddling petals since 1947, but recently its new owners beefed up their inventory with a fresh crop of edibles (Vietnamese coriander, Moroccan mint, Thai basil) you won't find anywhere else. Another revamp we love: The nursery switched from selling chemical-based to organic fertilizers, which are easier on the planet, not to mention your conscience. 1330 Solano Ave.; 510/526-3550.
Don't miss ... the cheapest way to explore Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Sequoia. During National Park Week, all 394 of the country's outdoor playgrounds open their gates free of charge. Apr 16-24; nps.gov/npweek
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