Gardening is a lot of hard, rewarding, and therapeutic work. Just that answer alone is complex. Then, you must mold them all together to grow and maintain life. Add in the increasing drought conditions of Southern California, and it can become pretty easy to neglect your lawn. So, should you hire a gardener to maintain your landscape, or should you try to do it yourself? Let’s figure it out!
Pros to Gardening Yourself
There are many studies that show spending time in the garden can decrease stress and improve your mood. In turn, you may experience benefits like lower blood pressure and better heart health.
So, if you can garden yourself, then by all means! You will save a lot more money. Plus, the health rewards are well worth the time invested.
What to Know About Gardening in Southern California
California has a long-standing history of low water supplies. Your garden water usage must be in compliance with any local California water laws.
Before planting, you should also be aware of how much water is needed to keep your garden alive. The Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS) is an excellent resource for this information. Their database lists the water needs of over 3,500 plant species.
Also, keep in mind that many plants won’t survive in drought conditions. So, planting them would essentially be a waste of water and money. Make sure you are up-to-date with the best drought-resistant plants for California.
Should You Hire a Gardener for Your Southern California Garden?
If you need to redo your whole garden or replace old turf, this might be a bigger job than you can handle. After all, we need to work for a living. There are just so many hours in the day! So, it’s best you get a gardener who specializes in water conservation gardens.
Turf Replacement Program
California has a Turf Replacement Program that covers all of your gardening needs.
This innovative program is the brainchild of multiple organizations:
- Department of Water Resources
- California Conservation Corps (CCC)
- Habitat Corridor Project (HCP)
- Local Government Commission
Their goal is to replace 165,000 square feet of California turf with water-efficient landscaping using native plants, trees, and grass. Specialists will handle turf removal, irrigation, planting, and mulch. Applying is a no-brainer for someone looking to go green with their greenery.
Fruit Tree Planting Program
Another amazing initiative that California has rolled out is a Fruit Tree Planting Program. City staff will plant one fruit tree in your yard. You can choose between six different plants.
Options include:
- Lemon
- Lime
- Orange
- Pomegranate
- Peach
- Avocado
This program hopes to improve the environment and the health of California citizens. Plus, with the recent avocado shortage south of the border, the Fruit Tree Planting Program might save brunch!
