Drought Tolerant Landscaping

Residents in many counties throughout California are currently facing restrictions or bans on outdoor water use. When watering restrictions are imposed, there are a number of things homeowners can do to help their existing plants make the best use of water in the landscape. Here are some examples of how you can reduce your water dependency, which are also good practices when we are not in a drought:

• Make certain plants have a generous supply of mulch over their roots. Three to five inches of mulch will help hold moisture in the soil and will prevent evaporation from the soil surface. Fine textured mulches do a better job of conserving moisture than course textured mulch. Apply mulch to as large an area as possible under the plant.
• Avoid practices that encourage new water-demanding growth. Fertilization is not wise during extended dry periods because fertilizers are chemically salts and can actually dehydrate the roots of plants. Routine pruning also stimulates new growth and should be avoided during dry periods.
• When watering, apply water only to those plants that show signs of wilt. This will help conserve water. Priority should be given to newly planted trees and shrubs (those installed within the past four months). You may water more frequently up to sixty days after your new plants are installed.*
• Tips for plant selection:
  • Choose and retain existing native, pest-resistant trees, shrubs, and plants.
  • Select pest-resistant plants adapted to your specific area. Consider site-specific characteristics such as soil. Topography, climate (amount and timing of sunlight, prevailing winds, rainfall, and air movements). Patterns of land use, and plant interaction.
  • Group plants with similar irrigation needs and other site-specific requirements together.
  • Select plants that can improve the infiltration of water such as deep-rooted plants.
  • Provide plants that have larger canopy areas to minimize impact of raindrops on soil; thus, reducing erosion.
  • Eliminate the need for routine pruning by selecting plants based on their size and shape when mature.
  • Minimize turf areas to conserve water.

*We would like to make clear that though drought resistant plants use less water in the long run, during their first month or two they will still need constant watering until their roots become established. Once established, they will be more drought-tolerant than other plants.