A picket fence divides Norm and Lynn Ginsburg's 20- by 16-foot "nursery" ― a propagation area for new plants ― from the rest of their backyard.

"In any garden, gaps need to be filled and plants replaced," Norm says. "It's nice to be able to start new ones from old ones." The pair collect seeds and divide or take cuttings from existing plants such as alstroemeria, calandrinia, and Russian sage. Nursery pots and flats hold new plants; pots are elevated on redwood racks on concrete blocks to enhance air circulation, discourage pests, and prevent roots from anchoring to the ground. Group plants by light and water needs. To make a rack, use eight redwood 1-by-2s, each 8 feet long; space them 1 1/2 inches apart, and nail to crossbars.