Although an even carpet of emerald green lawn seems like an appealing and simple solution to create a “place to be”. Unfortunately, lawns are also thirsty, high maintenance, and require a lot of chemicals to look their best. Some homeowners may choose to substitute their grass with artificial turf—believing it to be a comparable, water-wise alternative—but this is not the ecologically-friendly option it appears to be at first glance.

In nature, when rain falls or snow melts, gravity draws water downhill, creating creeks and streams and eventually flowing into larger bodies of water, including lakes, bays, and oceans. Along the way, water is slowed and absorbed in minor depressions in the soil. Plants then receive the water they need to thrive—creating forage and habitat for local fauna and modulate temperature—increasing the chances of future rainfall. Soil and plant roots also filter water, replenishing aquifers and waterways with clean water. If we consider our built environment as an element of the watershed, we can live in harmony with natural processes.

There are many good reasons for including California Native plants in your Southern California landscape design. California Native Plants are adapted to our regional climate, which leads to stronger, healthier plants that require less inputs, less water, fertilizer and pest problems. Using plants found in nature in your specific region help provide habitat and forage for native fauna, allowing for us to live in harmony with our surroundings. Southern California boastes one of the greatest levels of bio diversity of plants in the world, so looking to landscape with California native plants we are provide with a wide array of options.

Sustainable landscape design

The concept of sustainability—using resources efficiently and protecting the natural world—is essential to effective landscape design. Creating outdoor spaces that serve human beings and also support a thriving environment involves careful consideration of plants, soil, and hardscaping elements. A healthy landscape is an extension of nature, blending best ecological practices with individualized style.