The Water-Saving Garden

California is in its forth year of "exceptional drought", which means its high time to be thinking about how to use our water more efficiently.  Since about half of a home's water use is estimated to go outdoors, that is an excellent place to start.  

Water Patio Plants Less Often with this Surprising Tip!

This spring while planting the garden, I wanted to try out new ways to help keep my container flowers blooming throughout the heat of the summer.  That is, without me standing over them and watering them every day!

A high school chemistry teacher waaay back in the day had beakers of gel around the classroom with flowers growing out of them.  She explained to us that it was the same water-retaining material found in diapers...and period pads.  That little bit of trivia stayed with me and this spring it's found its way into my coir-lined hanging planters.  Here's more on this unexpected repurposing...feminine pads in the garden!

Cut your Water Bill with this Simple Trick

Water comes so easily out of the faucet that it’s easy to take it for granted!  Just think of how much more careful we’d be with each drop if we had to walk to the nearest well or river to collect it.

There is a lot of water that goes down our kitchen drains that is barely even touched, if at all.  Think about the water used while we’re washing vegetables.  Or when we rinse something sticky of our fingers.  If we catch that water, it is perfect for the garden!  

SoCo Succulents, Part III

I'm officially obsessed.  I love these succulents!  More shots from the natives gardens at SoCo...

Drought Resistant Landscaping

When looking for plants that can thrive during the arid summer months, these photos I shot of a southern California native garden are great inspiration.  I love the use of rocks, pebbles, and other natural elements - not only do they not require water, but they add amazing contrast to the dramatic shapes of native grasses and plants.