California Landscape Design with Water in Mind

Member Resource:

Tom Bressan

Urban Farmer Store Urbanfarmerstore.com

In California’s drought-prone climate, landscaping is a demanding user of our water supply. To help reduce waste, state lawmakers introduced updates in 2015 to the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO), a water conservation law for new and renovated landscapes.

The law gives very detailed requirements when taking on new projects and renovations in landscaping, including:

• New construction projects with a total landscape area greater than 500 sq. ft. • Rehabilitations of existing landscapes with a total area greater than 2,500 sq. ft.

While larger projects will usually involve the services of a landscape architect, >>

>> irrigation designer, and landscape contractor, the state offers a list of prescriptive practices for projects under 2,500 ft. to be WELO compliant. For small landscaping projects, incorporate these best practices that will reduce your water bill, your green waste pile, and promote conservation:

Choose the Right Material

Pick plant material that is suited to Marin’s long, dry summers. These “Mediterraneanzone” plants also include species that are native to California. Check with your local nursery for suggestions on what plants are best suited to your area and micro- climates in Marin.

Limited Lawns

Lawns require an extraordinary amount of water, are expensive to maintain, and are reduced or eliminated in most new landscape designs. Keep lawns to 25% or less of your landscape area, and avoid lawns on sloped areas or next to hardscapes that shed water into storm drains.

Soil Preparation

Work compost into any soil type to improve water distribution and retention. In clay soils, it allows for more water to soak in. In sandy textures, compost-rich mixtures help retain water.

Permaculture Techniques

Soil retaining site work, permeable pavers, and passive and active rainwater harvesting can go a long way to recharge aquifers and renew watersheds.

Smart Controller

Once considered a luxury item, a smart controller is a valuable tool to easily reduce or shut-off water when appropriate. Install a controller that can make daily adjustments for length of day, temperature, rainfall, and other factors.

Drip Irrigation

This slow and precise application uses 30-50% less water than traditional methods. It can be used for most landscape areas, including areas of dense and sparse plantings. A system is worth the investment; it provides your plants with ideal conditions and saves you time and money.

Use Mulch

A covering of mulch will reduce weeds and moisture loss while helping to enrich the soil. There are various types of mulch to consider for different landscapes, so be sure to select the best for your needs. The benefits of water efficient landscapes are many, including healthier soil and plants, reduced irrigation runoff, increased drought resistance, reduced carbon footprint, and less pollution of our waterways. Every step you take in your conservation efforts will improve your garden and local community, today and tomorrow.

Pressure Regulation

Every irrigation system has a desired pressure for optimum performance. High pressure in sprinkler systems can increase overspray and runoff. Be sure you’re setting and maintaining consistent pressure monitoring.

Let’s build together at marinbuilders.com