Think the Drought is over? Think again!

It has been great getting some much-needed rain this winter, our reservoirs are starting to fill up and in some areas of California they are saying we are out of drought.  We are not!  We live in a Mediterranean climate, and are very close to the desert, so we’ll never be far from the next drought.
That means that it is time to start putting some coping practices into our arsenal of landscaping tools.  Using basic Watershed principles, we can create beautiful gardens that are sustainable and actually give back to our planet.  At a time when our earth is being threatened, you as a homeowner or gardener can master the tools to help our planet.
Creating a great garden should include improvement of the soil, conservations of water and selection of climate appropriate plants.   There are many ways to improve the soil and the best ones do not involve chemicals. Sheet mulching, adding compost, worm castings, and using compost tea all provide healthy, rich alternatives to chemical fertilizer and improve soil quality as well.
Capturing and utilizing water with swales, rain gardens, and permeable paving is another way to improve your garden and the planet.  By creating a sustainable eco-system, you will encourage local pollinators to help your garden grow and improve the health of the earth.
Using both California native and Mediterranean plants further encourages pollinators to visit your garden and continue to add to the earth.  If you would like some help creating a sustainable and comfortable garden, consider giving me a call or contact me at my website.
Julie Molinare is a Certified Landscape Designer living in the Santa Clarita for over 15 years. Julie taught the Introduction to Landscape Design Class @ CSUN Tseng College of Extended Learning and is Owner/Designer of The Grass Is Always Greener Designs 661-917-3521 www.thegrassisalwaysgreener.net – make sure to visit the blog page for timely information and garden reminders.