Clovis gardening blogger to ride on Miracle-Gro float during Rose Parade

A Clovis gardening blogger will ride on a float made partially out of her own plants in front of an estimated 500,000 spectators Friday during the annual Rose Parade in Pasadena.

Susan Phillips, who writes a weekly blog for California Grown, was asked by Miracle-Gro to participate on the company’s float. At least 85 percent of the float will consist of plants grown in California – including some Cape Rush ornamental grass from Phillips’ backyard. It is one of three such floats.

“They wanted to have a couple of backyard gardeners on their float to inspire people,” Phillips said. “To let people know you can grow whatever you want in your own backyard.”

Phillips, her mother, her husband and their three children have been in Pasadena since Tuesday preparing the float. She has been shuttled to the “float barn” – where each parade float is constructed – each day to assist with the Miracle-Gro float’s creation.

The company found Phillips through social media, she said.

California Grown contacted Phillips to create the blog about two years ago. She primarily shares recipes and do-it-yourself gardening tips, but she occasionally profiles California restaurants that specialize in using local produce and ingredients.

Phillips has kept a personal blog of her writing and photography for the last six years.

This story was originally published December 31, 2015 at 5:00 PM with the headline "Clovis gardening blogger to ride on Miracle-Gro float during Rose Parade."