You won't find any highway signs leading to Hortus Botanicus nursery in Fort Bragg: It's located off the beaten path down a gravel road. But word of mouth has put this nursery on the road maps of many passionate gardeners since it opened five years ago. "People seem to find us," says owner Robert Goleman, a Fort Bragg native.

This "collector's nursery" is a jewel--well worth a detour off State 1. Situated on 14 acres with 2 acres of plants, display gardens, and greenhouses, it's home to more than 800 heirloom and modern roses planted in the ground, 50 clematis (Goleman sells 40 kinds), thousands of orchids (a passion of his since he was 12 years old), and a rare succulent collection inherited from the previous nursery owner--not to mention a healthy collection of container trees, shrubs, and perennials for sale.

Stop by in July (2000) and see an entire lath house dedicated to begonias in full bloom. 10-5 Thu-Mon. 20103 Hanson Rd.; (707) 964-4786 or