While California had record rain this winter, summer is here with the return of hotter, drier weather. Our new water reality, with swings between extreme wet and extreme dry periods, challenges us to adopt a new mindset for conserving water, especially outdoors. Without action, climate experts believe our extreme weather could diminish California’s water supply by up to 10 percent by 2040.
Los Angeles master gardeners Linda Harrington of Carson and Dr. Sherridan Ross of Compton Community Garden, partnered with Save Our Water to teach homeowners and renters how to save water by creating do-it-yourself, water-wise gardens and landscaping.
“You don’t have to be a master gardener to make your garden or yard more water-wise,” said Dr. Ross. He encouraged residents to begin by exploring plant varieties that can survive California’s climate, planting a garden bed or replacing a small area of their yard with drought-resistant plants, and practicing efficient watering methods, such as deep watering.
“Starting with succulents is a great way to replace plants that require a great deal of water,” Harrington said. “There are a wide range of succulents to fit every style and budget, including those that bloom beautiful flowers.”
In terms of plant varieties, California native plants make good choices because they originate from, and are adapted to, California’s climate. Replacing plants or trees for these native varieties can save 30-100 gallons each time they are watered.
“I encourage people to go online and find plants specific to their location,” Ross said. Residents can visit Calscape.org, enter an address, and find local native plants.
Do-it-yourself landscaping can be done over time and at a low cost. Residents should check their local water agency to see if rebates are offered to help with the cost of installing a new water-wise landscape.
It is going to take all Californians to make a positive difference, working together for permanent change. By making water conservation a way of life, we could save enough water to supply more than 1.7 million households annually for generations to come.
“No expertise or experiences is needed, just the desire,” Harrington said.
For more water saving tips and resources, including California native landscaping ideas, visit SaveOurWater.com
