Garden tours are a sure sign of spring in Southern California, and this year there are 16 to choose from. These elaborate gardens range from native plant habitats to hardscape “outdoor living” yards ...

Tour goers will see Craftsman bungalows, Mediterranean Revival homes, farmhouse style and mid-century modern homes, too.

Even if you can't explain why, cottage gardens are one of those things (like poetry, personal coaches, and obscenity) that you know when you see. They're marked by a certain density and informality.