Designing water-wise native landscapes
Does your garden look ho-hum? Have you recently purchased a new home and can't decide on the type of landscape to choose?
Consider California natives and drought- tolerant plants. Water conservation has become a key component in our everyday lives. By using native plants you can create an oasis with very little water and maintenance compared to traditional gardens.
Once established, the majority of plants will provide a beautifying element to any garden landscape. Not only will you see a reduction in your monthly water bills, but you will eliminate any gas power equipment you may currently use to maintain your garden.
While traditional gardens require frequent weekly watering, established drought- tolerant plants can survive with minimal water throughout the summer. In times of drought, California natives can adapt to less frequent watering and still maintain a lush appearance compared to traditional landscapes.
Growing native
Why grow California native plants? There are many reasons. For starters, you'll have a variety to choose from — almost 6,000 species in various categories, ranging from annuals to perennials to trees. This includes a wide variety of flowers.
Drought-tolerant plants generally require little maintenance, minimal soil preparation and water, and fertilizing costs are much lower than traditional landscapes.
These plants attract native wildlife and insect pollinators that can improve fruit production in the gardens. A wide variety of native insects and birds will keep mosquitoes and plant-eating insects at bay.
Native plants have developed their own defenses against many pests and diseases. Reducing or eliminating pesticide use lets natural pest control take over and keeps garden toxins out of creeks and watersheds. Native plant species also keep the health and overall integrity of native habitats and their wildlife.
Finally, many of the native plants have historical meaning within our region and are suited to be here in our surroundings. Working with natives can be exciting as well as rewarding. There are various resources and classes available to make your garden the showplace of the neighborhood.
So get out there and start digging.
Resources
Earth-Friendly Demo Garden
Visit the Alameda County Master Gardener's Earth-Friendly Demo Garden located at the Martinelli Conference and Event Center at 3858 Greenville Road, Livermore.
The garden's purpose is to provide an educational experience featuring "water-wise" plants as an alternative to the traditional home landscape. It focuses on educational programs for the community and master gardener continuing education.
Planting ideas for homeowners are plentiful at the demonstration garden with plants that are attractive, affordable and readily available.
You can visit the garden any time or watch the video and take a brief tour with a Lab landscape technician Christina Elliott.
Websites
Gardening with California Native Plants
Alameda County Water District Demonstration Garden
