California is in a drought! AHH. Did you know that California is in the third year of the state’s worst drought in recent history? It doesn’t look like it’s getting better any time soon either. It is time for us to stop sitting back and start doing something. Your yard shouldn’t have to suffer due to the drought though. We all do our own parts in our own ways and choosing to use drought tolerant plants is a step in the right direction. Not only will these plants help conserve your water but it will keep your water BILLS down too. Everyone likes to save a few bucks here and there right?
Cactus – Cactus are meant for desert and Mediterranean climates so investing in any type of cactus – large and in charge or small and to the wall – will be a great addition to your yard or garden. One of the reasons cactus don’t need to be water the way other plants do is their ability to adapt to their needs. Since they’re usually in the desert or Mediterranean climates they are able to conserve water they do receive and make it last a long time. Ever get pricked by a cactus before? This is one way the plant mechanics helps reduce water loss by restricting air flow near the cactus
Succulents – Succulents are one of our favorite plants. Not only because of their tolerant to droughts (must-have in most northern California yards) but also because of their true beauty and diversity. Like Cactus, there are many types of succulents, all of which are perfect for areas with little to no rain fall (or in our case, in desperate need to conserve water). Unlike cactus, succulents are more tolerant of overwatering. Similar to cactus though, succulents also store water, which makes it unnecessary to water it as much as a regular plant. The bigger the succulent leaves are, the more water it stores and therefore the less it needs. If you’re looking for a drought tolerant succulent – the bigger the better!
Lavandula multifida – commonly known as a fernleaf lavender ,is sometimes a shrub but is native to Mediterranean areas making it perfect for the Chico droughts. Not only do these do great in heat and minimal water but over watering and winter temperatures might actually do harm to this plan.
California Lilac – California lilacs are not only beautiful but do best on dry land! It’s important to remember though that with all drought tolerant plants that while they may not require much water after they’re in tact, they might still require water to get the plant started if you are starting from seeds.
Perennial flowers – Like cactus and succulents there are a large variety of perennial flowers with a broad range of color, size and other features! They do best in the sun and are very low on their need for water usage. Making them ideal for a desert, Mediterranean climate or for places in a drought.
Deer Grass – deergrass, also known as Muhlenbergia rigens, is perfect for our warm seasons! Tey survive and thrive in places with warmer weather – does that sound like home to anyone?! When you do water these plants – be careful! They won’t be able to survive standing water (or poorly drained soils). These do the best in the sun.
Blue Oak Landscaping is Northern California’s premier landscaping company servicing Butte County and surrounding North State areas such as Chico, Oroville, Paradise, Corning, Red Bluff, Redding, Orland, Marysville or Sacramento. We’re able to deliver the highest quality landscaping products and services through the combined experience of its employees. We own and operate the newest equipment that allows our seasoned landscapers to do extraordinary projects. Blue Oak installs plants, trees, lawns and irrigation, but our passion lies in our ability to install hardscaping (paved areas like walkways or pavers) and other sought after landscape elements Ready to get some work done? Please call us today at (530) 518-7248 or email ben@blueoaklandscaping.com