Water-Efficient Landscaping in California

Water-Efficient Landscapes in California

Creating water-efficient landscapes in California is crucial due to the state’s ongoing drought conditions and its focus on sustainability. While Americans often take fresh water for granted, the United Nations reported in 2022 that 2.2 billion people were without access to safely managed drinking water. Landscaping mindfully is one simple way you can reduce the strain on our water infrastructure and conserve fresh water. By choosing drought-tolerant plants and employing water-saving techniques, you can reduce water consumption while still creating beautiful, functional landscapes.

Tips on Selecting Plants:

• Native Plants: Native California plants are adapted to local climate conditions and require less water once established. Examples include California poppies, lavender, manzanita, and sages.
• Ground cover: Instead of using traditional grass for ground cover, other options require less water. Some ideas for ground cover are periwinkle, creeping thyme, ornamental grass, and clover. Ground cover also reduces the greenhouse gas effect by sequestering carbon dioxide in the soil. 
• Drought-Tolerant Varieties: Many plants, like succulents and agave, are also drought-tolerant.
• Group Plants by Water Needs: Grouping plants with similar water needs together reduces unnecessary watering.
• Fire-resistant plants: Many drought-tolerant species are also fire-resistant, which is essential in areas that are prone to wildfires. Some species include sage, yucca, and strawberry. 

Use Protective Covering:

• Apply a 3- to 4-inch layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches like wood chips, straw, or bark are great options.
• Avoid piling mulch directly against plant stems, which can encourage rot.
• Incorporate permeable surfaces (hardscapes) such as gravel, pebbles, gravel sand, or seashells in paths, patios, and driveways to allow water to seep into the ground rather than running off. 

Irrigation:

• Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the root zone of plants, reducing water waste and runoff compared to traditional sprinklers.
• Consider adding a timer or smart irrigation controller to optimize watering schedules.
• Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
• Regularly check and maintain your irrigation system for leaks, clogs, and proper operation.
• If using sprinklers, adjust them to avoid watering sidewalks, driveways, or streets. Use water-efficient heads or nozzles to ensure even coverage.

Improve Soil Health:

• Healthy soil retains moisture better and supports healthy plant growth. Add organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure.
• Consider using soil amendments to increase water retention, especially in sandy or clay-heavy soils.
• Plant during cooler months (fall or early spring) to minimize the need for supplemental watering during hot weather.
• Use the “right plant, right place” principle to ensure that plants are suited to their environment (sunlight, soil type, etc.)

Smart Landscaping Practices:

• Zones & Microclimates: Take advantage of natural shading, windbreaks, and variations in topography. Plant heat-loving plants in sun-drenched areas, and shade-lovers where there’s less sun exposure.
• Pruning: Prune plants properly to improve airflow and reduce disease while reducing water needs.
• Utilizing Local Conservation Resources: Many local water districts provide resources, rebates, and incentives for converting to water-efficient landscapes, including programs like LA’s California Friendly Landscaping. Click here for a comprehensive list of programs and rebates available for Santa Barbara County. 
• Extended learning: Look for local education, such as the Green Gardener Program in Santa Barbara County, which seeks to teach gardeners resource-efficient and pollution-prevention landscape practices. 
• Selecting a Landscaper: Research the California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) for professional services that specialize in water-efficient landscaping.

Natural Pesticides:

• Utilizing natural pesticides can help protect water resources by keeping runoff water clear of toxic chemicals.
• Natural pesticides can be an effective, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemicals. Many of them are derived from plants, minerals, or naturally occurring substances and can be less harmful to beneficial insects, wildlife, and the environment.
• Some examples are neem oil, coconut insecticidal soap, diatomaceous earth, garlic spray, hot pepper spray, essential oils, and chrysanthemum tea.

Water Conservation in Your Climate

California’s climate varies from coastal to desert to mountain, so make sure your landscape design is suited to your specific regional conditions. Coastal areas may need to tolerate salt air and wind, while inland areas experience extreme heat and dry conditions. Select plant species that are suited to your area’s microclimate. California Department of Water Resources has information on landscaping in every climate. 

By following these strategies, you can design a water-efficient landscape that is not only environmentally friendly but also beautiful and easy to maintain in California’s diverse climates.