Water-Wise Landscaping

Sunset Garden Photo

About half of residential water use is used outdoors. That means that replacing your thirsty lawns with water-wise landscaping can result in huge water savings and keep money in your pocket. 

There are many resources available to Windsor residents to help transform our community to a beautiful, water-wise, and pollinator friendly environment. 

Remember to sign up for the Water Efficient Landscape Rebate before removing your lawn!

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Planting California Native

Planting native plants in your garden is not only a fantastic way to showcase the natural beauty of California but also brings a multitude of benefits to our environment and community. Here are just a few reasons why planting native plants is a fantastic choice:

  1.  Preservation of Biodiversity: By planting native plants, we contribute to the preservation of California's unique biodiversity. These plants have evolved over thousands of years to thrive in our specific climate and soil conditions, providing essential habitat and food sources for local wildlife.
  2. Water Conservation: Native plants are well-adapted to our local climate, making them more drought-tolerant and resilient. They require less water than non-natives, reducing the need for excessive irrigation, and helping to conserve one of our most precious resources.
  3.  Low Maintenance and Cost-effective: Native plants are generally low maintenance, as they are naturally adapted to the local environment. They often require less fertilizers, pesticides, and other resources, saving you both time and money in the long run.
  4. Soil Health and Erosion Control: Native plants have deep root systems that help improve soil structure, prevent erosion, and filter pollutants from entering our waterways. They play a vital role in maintaining the health of our soils and protecting our natural ecosystems.
  5. Aesthetically Pleasing: California native plants offer an incredible variety of colors, textures, and fragrances, making them a stunning addition to any garden or landscape. Whether you prefer vibrant wildflowers, majestic trees, or delicate shrubs, there's a native plant that will perfectly suit your taste.

If you are interested in adding native plants to your garden be sure to call your local nursery to check if they carry native species, or check out these native plant nurseries in the area:

California Flora Nursery

Urban Tree Farm Nursery

Sonoma County Garden Sense Program Garden Sense Logo

 Garden Sense is a free program offered by the UC Master Gardener Program of Sonoma County.  Interested in removing your lawn and installing a low-water landscape, but don't know how to get started?  Sign up for a free consultation at your home with a Master Gardener.

Garden Sense

Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL) QWEL Logo

Hiring a locally trained QWEL graduate can save you both water and money on your bill. Or take a class yourself and get the skills you need to do it right on your own.

QWEL

Landscaping Guide

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