Plant a Boot, Grow a Garden: The Simi Valley Class You Didn’t Know You Needed
Daniel Jordan 
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — Got Old Boots? Turn Them Into Living Art with Dr. P. If you’ve got an old pair of rain boots lying around, don’t toss them—plant them!
On Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m., the Simi Valley Senior Center will host a hands-on succulent workshop that turns those forgotten boots into living planters.
Those forgotten boots are about to become the stars of a hands-on workshop all about succulents. It’s led by Dr. Stephen Pietrolungo, better known as “Dr. P.” A retired school principal with a science degree and a dry sense of humor, he now spends his time growing plants that hardly need water and teaching others how to do the same.
“I like plants that don’t panic when you forget about them,” he says.
That’s the magic of succulents. Their name comes from the Latin sucus, meaning sap. These plants store water in their thick, juicy leaves so they can survive long dry spells—perfect for our Simi Valley climate.
At this workshop, you’ll learn how to create your own succulent planter using an old rain boot (or use the one provided). You’ll also learn how to keep your succulents happy with the least amount of effort. It’s true: most succulents only need to be watered when the soil is completely dry—and they only need fertilizer once a year.
Want more weird plant facts? Here’s a few Dr. P. loves to share:
- Some succulents grow tiny leaves because they’re used to high mountain air.
- Many have their own built-in sunscreen (a powdery coating called farina).
- You can grow new plants just by snipping a leaf and letting it sit in a sunny spot.
- And yep, cactus are succulents—but not all succulents are cactus.
Best of all? These plants are tough. They don’t attract many pests and they live for years. That’s why succulents show up in wedding bouquets, cake decorations, and even jewelry. (Yes, succulent earrings are a real thing.)
For just $5, you get soil, plants, a recycled boot, and a lesson you’ll actually remember. You might even leave with a few new plant friends.
To sign up, stop by the Simi Valley Senior Center or call (805) 583-6363. Don’t wait—seats are limited, and these boots are ready to grow.
