Lot size: 1,100 sq. ft. front garden 96% native

Garden Age: Garden was installed in 2011

Years on the Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour: New this year!

Showcase Feature
Natalya, an avid hiker, had tired of her Bermuda grass lawn and wanted something more natural; Jillian Steinberger of The Garden Artisan delivered a rain garden. The newly installed cobble-filled north and south forks of the dry creek bed, dug out of clay so hard an excavator had to be brought in, was designed to slow, spread, and sink the water they receive from the roof’s downspouts. This rainwater is contained in subterranean reservoirs, which maintain soil moisture and results in reduced water use. Thick mulch, another rain garden feature, eliminated erosion and retains water on-site. More than forty species of native plants, from the diminutive but hardy dudleyas and lewisias tucked between stones to the redbud, toyon, and manzanita that provide vertical interest, are included in this garden.

Other Garden Attractions
• Perennial seaside daisies, massed rosy buckwheats, and cheery yellow sneezeweed extend the bloom time.
• Tidy tips, baby blue eyes, penstemon, yarrow, and poppies provide spring color.
• Six inches of mulch finished off the lawn; white vinegar is used to spot-treat weeds.
• Sonoma and Montana field stones create a woodsy feel in the front garden; Three Rivers flagstone and Temescal fines enliven the narrow parking strip.

Gardening for Wildlife
California lilac attracts bees, monkeyflowers are hummingbird magnets, and butterflies love the buckwheats.

Garden Talks
11:00 “How to convert your lawn into a native garden” by Jillian Steinberger. Jillian will be at this garden from 10:00 – 1:00 to answer questions.

11:30 “The nuts and bolts of irrigating native plants” by Ken Foster of Terra Nova Ecological Landscaping