On the west coast, drought is part of life. As climate change makes these dry periods even more intense and more frequent, planting native can help both people and wildlife thrive. Here’s how you can save water with native plants in your own outdoor space.
Understanding the specific conditions of your garden is key. Is it in direct sun or more of a shady refuge? Are you near the coast or closer to the mountains? Does water tend to accumulate in the soil, or does it evaporate quickly? San Diego contains many “microclimates” like valleys, canyons, or the coast, and planting conditions differ between them. Look around your neighborhood to see what native plants are already thriving naturally—these will be the best choices for your own outdoor space.
CalScape can help you choose the right water-saving plants for these soil types and other growing conditions. Enter your location for a customized native plant palette.
For non-native plants, drip irrigation allows water to go deep into the soil without runoff or evaporation. Other than hand-watering with a hose (which should be considered for small yards), it’s the most efficient way to water—much more so than overhead sprinklers. But be warned: keep the irrigation system away from your native species, as many of them hate “wet feet.”
Water-stealing weeds pull valuable resources from native plants. Try to pull them out (including the roots!) on a regular basis when they’re young, before they grow and multiply. Mulch or landscape fabrics can also help keep weeds from sprouting up. Plus, mulch helps seal in the soil’s moisture.
