Drought-Tolerant Ground Cover: Socal Water-Wise Gardens

Southern California gardens face unique challenges. Water conservation is crucial for homeowners. Ground cover plants represent a practical solution. Drought-tolerant species thrive in the area. Native plants are well-suited to the climate. These attributes make them ideal for sustainable landscaping. Choosing these plants helps minimize water usage. They also support local ecosystems.

Alright, picture this: you’re cruising down the 405, sun blazing, and you see yet another brown, crispy lawn. Ouch! As Southern Californians, we know this scene all too well. But what if I told you there’s a way to have a gorgeous garden that doesn’t guzzle water like a thirsty marathon runner? Enter the world of drought-tolerant ground cover – your secret weapon for a stunning and sustainable landscape!

We’re talking about a landscaping revolution where you can have your cake (beautiful yard) and eat it too (conserve water). In Southern California, where the Southern California climate is as unpredictable as a reality TV show, embracing drought-tolerant solutions is not just trendy; it’s essential. We live in a Mediterranean climate, which basically means we get long, hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters… well, sometimes wet. More often than not, we’re dealing with drought conditions, making water conservation a top priority.

Let’s be real, the battle against the blazing sun and limited rainfall can feel like an uphill climb, am I right? But, lucky for you, that’s why we need to change the status quo of our yard, and create a green space haven that does not require an abundant source of water or irrigation.

So, buckle up, buttercup! We’re about to dive headfirst into the wonderful world of drought-tolerant ground cover, where you’ll discover how to transform your thirsty landscape into a vibrant, water-wise paradise. Get ready to say goodbye to the brown blahs and hello to a garden that’s both beautiful and brilliantly sustainable. Let’s get started!

What IS Ground Cover Anyway? (And Why Should SoCal Care?)

Alright, let’s get down to earth (pun intended!). You’ve probably heard the term “ground cover” thrown around, but what exactly is it? Simply put, ground cover is any plant that grows low to the ground, spreading out to cover an area. Think of it as a living carpet! But unlike your living room rug, this one actually helps your garden.

Beyond the Pretty: The Superpowers of Ground Cover

Now, you might be thinking, “Okay, it looks nice, but is it really worth it?” The answer, my friend, is a resounding YES! Ground cover does so much more than just look good. It’s like a tiny, leafy superhero for your yard.

• Erosion Control: Ground cover’s extensive root systems act like nature’s rebar, holding the soil in place and preventing erosion from wind and rain. So, it will save your land!
• Weed Suppression: By creating a dense mat, ground cover smothers pesky weeds, reducing the need for herbicides and back-breaking weeding sessions. Your back will thank you.
• Soil Temperature Regulation: Ground cover acts as a natural insulator, keeping the soil cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Think of it as a built-in thermostat for your garden.
• Aesthetics: Let’s be honest, ground cover just looks good. It adds texture, color, and visual interest to your landscape, creating a more inviting and beautiful outdoor space. And let’s be real, we all want the prettiest garden in the neighborhood.
• Reduced Water Use: And this is where the real magic happens, especially in Southern California! Many ground cover varieties are drought-tolerant, meaning they require very little water to thrive.

SoCal’s Secret Weapon: Drought-Tolerant Ground Cover

In our sunny, sometimes-too-dry corner of the world, drought-tolerant ground cover is a game-changer. It allows us to have beautiful, lush landscapes without draining our precious water resources. It’s like having your cake and eating it too! These amazing plants are specifically adapted to thrive in water-scarce environments, making them perfect for Southern California gardens.

The Key to Their Survival: Drought-Tolerant Plant Characteristics

What makes these plants so special? Well, they’ve evolved some clever tricks to survive and thrive in dry conditions:

• Deep Roots: They send their roots deep into the soil to access water that other plants can’t reach. It’s like having a secret underground reservoir!
• Waxy Leaves: Their waxy leaves help to reduce water loss through transpiration. Think of it as nature’s sunscreen.
• Succulent Nature: Some varieties are succulents, storing water in their leaves and stems to get them through dry spells. They’re like little water tanks on legs (or, you know, stems).

Meet the Ground Cover Dream Team:

When choosing drought-tolerant ground cover, you’ll often encounter these superstar plant types:

• California Natives: These plants are perfectly adapted to our local climate and provide valuable habitat for native wildlife.
• Succulents: These water-storing wonders come in a wide array of shapes, sizes, and colors, adding unique texture and visual interest to your landscape.
• Mediterranean Plants: Hailing from similar climates around the world, these plants are well-suited to Southern California’s dry summers and mild winters.

Meet the Ground Cover All-Stars: Your Southern California Dream Team!

Alright, folks, get ready to ditch the thirsty turf and say hello to some serious ground-hugging heroes! We’re diving headfirst into the wonderful world of drought-tolerant ground cover, and trust me, your Southern California garden is about to thank you. Think of these plants as your garden’s personal A-Team: each one has a special set of skills and they are all ready to kick some serious drought butt! So, without further ado, let’s meet the contenders!

The Starting Lineup: 9 Ground Cover Champs

Get ready to meet some of the best drought-tolerant ground covers for your Southern California garden.

Dymondia margaretae (Dymondia): The Foot Traffic Superstar

Dymondia, also known as silver carpet, isn’t just a pretty face; it’s tough! This South African cutie boasts a dense, mat-forming habit with silver-green foliage. It can tolerate some foot traffic.

• Appearance: Silvery-green, dense, and low-growing.
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.
• Foot Traffic Tolerance: Moderate.

Thymus serpyllum (Creeping Thyme): The Fragrant Paver Pal

Imagine stepping onto your patio and being greeted by the delicious scent of thyme. Creeping Thyme makes it happen!

• Uses: Perfect between pavers, rock gardens, and along pathways.
• Growth Habits: Low-growing, spreading, and fragrant.
• Fragrance: Wonderfully aromatic.

Sedum species (Stonecrop): The Green Roof Rockstar

Sedums are the ultimate low-maintenance succulents. They come in a dazzling array of shapes and sizes, and they are total champs when it comes to drought resistance.

• Variety: Many drought-tolerant options, like Sedum spurium and Sedum album.
• Maintenance: Incredibly low-maintenance.
• Suitability: Excellent for green roofs, rock gardens, and containers.

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Kinnikinnick/Bearberry): The Wildlife Whisperer

Calling all native plant enthusiasts! Kinnikinnick, or Bearberry, is a fantastic California native that not only looks great but also supports local wildlife. It’s like a tiny ecosystem in your garden!

• Native Habitat: Found in California and other parts of North America.
• Soil Preferences: Well-drained, acidic soil.
• Wildlife Benefits: Provides food and shelter for birds and other critters.

Ceanothus griseus horizontalis (Carmel Creeper): The Slope-Stabilizing Superhero

Got a slope that needs some love? Carmel Creeper is your plant! This California native ceanothus is a low-growing, spreading shrub that’s perfect for erosion control and adding a touch of coastal charm to your landscape.

• Landscape Uses: Ideal for slopes, ground cover, and cascading over walls.
• Pruning: Prune lightly to maintain shape and encourage denser growth.
• Drought Tolerance: Extremely drought-tolerant once established.

Achillea tomentosa (Woolly Yarrow): The Sunny Bloom Bringer

Woolly Yarrow is like sunshine in plant form. With its soft, feathery foliage and cheerful yellow flowers, it’s a surefire way to brighten up any garden.

• Flowering: Yellow flowers in spring and summer.
• Drought Resistance: Excellent drought resistance.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care.

Gazania species: The Color-Popping Showstoppers

If you’re craving color, Gazanias are your answer! These South African daisies come in a rainbow of hues.

• Colors: Available in a wide range of colors, including yellow, orange, red, and pink.
• Blooming Season: Blooms profusely in spring and summer.
• Sun Requirements: Full sun is a must for best flowering.

Lantana montevidensis (Trailing Lantana): The Fast-Growing Ground Hugger

Need ground cover in a hurry? Trailing Lantana is your go-to gal! This fast-growing beauty quickly spreads to form a dense mat of colorful flowers.

• Growth Rate: Fast-growing.
• Frost Sensitivity: Can be frost-sensitive in colder areas.
• Flower Color: Typically lavender, but also available in other colors.

Salvia sonomensis (Creeping Sage): The Aromatic Attraction

Creeping Sage is a sensory delight! Its fragrant foliage releases a wonderful aroma when brushed against, and its lavender flowers attract bees and butterflies.

• Fragrance: Aromatic foliage.
• Wildlife Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
• Native Status: California native.

Matching Plants to Place: Decoding Southern California’s Microclimates

Alright, so you’re ready to unleash some ground cover magic in your Southern California garden! But hold your horses (or should we say, your shovels?)! Before you go wild at the nursery, it’s super important to understand that not all ground cover is created equal, and Southern California is definitely not a one-size-fits-all kind of place. Think of it like finding the perfect pair of shoes – you wouldn’t wear snow boots to the beach, right? Same goes for plants!

This part of the journey is all about being a savvy plant detective, investigating your own backyard’s unique personality. It’s about understanding that while we all live under the glorious Southern California sun, the conditions in your little corner of paradise can be wildly different from your neighbor down the street. So, let’s get down to brass tacks and uncover the secrets of your microclimate!

Unveiling the Environmental Culprits (Factors, That Is!)

Okay, so what exactly are we talking about when we say “local conditions”? Well, it’s a mix of things, like the usual suspects that play a major role in how plants thrive (or, sadly, don’t). Let’s take a look at the key players:

• Southern California Climate: Obvious, right? But even within our Mediterranean climate, there are nuances. Are you closer to the coast with milder temperatures, or inland where it gets scorching hot in the summer?
• Heat: Speaking of scorching, how much direct sun does your garden get? Is it a sun-drenched paradise all day long, or does it get some relief with shade in the afternoon? Knowing this will help you pick ground cover that can handle the heat.
• Sun Exposure: Closely related to heat, but think about how many hours of direct sunlight your planting area receives. Full sun? Partial shade? Deep shade? This is crucial for selecting the right plant.
• Soil Drainage: This is a big one! Does your soil drain well, or does water tend to pool up after rain? Ground cover that hates wet feet won’t be happy in soggy soil.
• Soil pH: A bit more technical, but the acidity or alkalinity of your soil can affect how well plants absorb nutrients. A simple soil test can give you this info.

Microclimates Demystified: Location, Location, Location!

Okay, now for the really fun part: seeing how these factors play out in different parts of Southern California. Each region has its own set of challenges and opportunities!

• Coastal Conditions: Living by the beach is dreamy, but coastal gardens need tough plants that can handle salty air, strong winds, and sandy soil. Think about ground covers that are naturally salt-tolerant and wind-resistant.
• Los Angeles County: From the mountains to the coast, L.A. County has it all. You might be dealing with urban heat islands in the city or cooler temperatures in the hills. Choose plants that are adapted to your specific neighborhood conditions.
• San Diego County: Known for its mild climate, San Diego still has its share of microclimates. Coastal areas are cooler and more humid, while inland valleys can get quite hot and dry.
• Inland Empire: This area is known for its hot summers and cooler winters. Drought-tolerant ground cover is a must, as are plants that can handle temperature extremes.

So, there you have it! Understanding your microclimate is like having a secret weapon for creating a thriving, water-wise garden. Take the time to assess your site, and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful, resilient ground cover that loves where it lives! Happy planting!

Designing Your Drought-Tolerant Oasis: Principles and Aesthetics

Okay, so you’re ready to ditch the thirsty turf and embrace a low-water landscape that’s as gorgeous as it is responsible. Awesome! This section is all about taking those amazing drought-tolerant ground covers and turning your yard into a sustainable masterpiece. Forget boring, we’re going for wow-factor with a conscience!

Xeriscaping and Sustainable Landscaping: Not as Scary as They Sound!

Let’s break it down. Xeriscaping isn’t about zero-scaping (think rocks and cacti only). It’s actually a super-smart set of principles designed to minimize water use in your garden. We’re talking about things like:

• Planning and Design: Think before you plant. Group plants with similar water needs together.
• Soil Improvement: Healthy soil holds water better. Amend with compost!
• Efficient Irrigation: Ditch the wasteful sprinklers. Drip irrigation is your new best friend.
• Mulch, Mulch, Mulch: It’s like a cozy blanket for your soil, keeping moisture in and weeds out.
• Appropriate Plant Selection: Bingo! That’s where our drought-tolerant ground covers come in.
• Lawn Alternatives: Less lawn = less water. Ground covers to the rescue!
• Maintenance: A little TLC goes a long way in keeping your landscape thriving.

Sustainable landscaping takes it a step further, considering the overall environmental impact. Think reducing pesticide use, composting, and attracting beneficial insects. It’s all about creating a healthy ecosystem in your backyard.

Ground Cover: Your Fire-Wise Friend

Living in Southern California, fire safety is no joke. Ground cover can actually play a role in fire-wise landscaping. Here’s the deal:

• Defensible Space: Create a buffer zone around your home with low-growing, fire-resistant plants. This helps slow down or stop a fire from reaching your house.
• No Ladder Fuels: Keep plants pruned and free of dead material. Don’t let shrubs grow up into trees, creating a “ladder” for fire to climb.
• Ground covers help maintain moisture at the ground level.

Aesthetic Considerations and Design Tips: Let’s Get Pretty!

Alright, let’s talk about making your drought-tolerant landscape a visual delight. Here are a few ideas:

• Color Coordination: Think about your home’s exterior and choose ground covers that complement it. A mix of greens, silvers, and even some flowering varieties can create a stunning effect.
• Texture Variations: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Combine fine-textured ground covers like creeping thyme with coarser ones like Dymondia for visual interest.
• Creating Pathways and Borders: Use ground cover to define pathways and create soft borders around planting beds. This adds structure and makes your landscape look polished. Use contrasting materials like gravel or stepping stones to accentuate the path.
• Strategic Placement: Use taller ground covers on slopes for erosion control and visual height. Place shorter ground covers near walkways and patios.

So, there you have it! With a little planning and creativity, you can transform your yard into a drought-tolerant paradise that’s both beautiful and sustainable. Time to get planting!

Preparing the Stage: Soil Preparation is Key!

Alright, so you’ve picked out your ground cover superstars, and you’re itching to get them in the ground. Hold your horses! Proper soil preparation is like setting the stage for a Broadway performance – you wouldn’t want your actors tripping over loose set pieces, would you?

First things first, get down and dirty with a soil pH test. You can grab a kit from your local nursery or even send a sample to your county extension office. Most drought-tolerant plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil, but knowing where you stand is half the battle. If your soil is too alkaline (common in some parts of SoCal), you can amend it with sulfur or peat moss.

Next up: amendments. Think of compost and other organic matter as a delicious meal for your future ground cover. Work in a generous layer to improve soil structure, drainage, and nutrient content. Plus, it’s like giving your soil a big hug – who doesn’t love a good hug?

And speaking of drainage, that’s the name of the game. Soggy roots are a ground cover’s worst nightmare. If you have heavy clay soil (we’re looking at you, parts of Los Angeles County!), consider adding some coarse sand or gravel to improve drainage. Nobody likes standing in puddles, and neither do your plants!

The Art of Planting: Give ‘Em Some Room to Grow!

Okay, the soil is ready to rock. Now comes the fun part: actually planting your ground cover! But before you start digging willy-nilly, let’s talk spacing. This is crucial! You want your plants to fill in nicely, but you don’t want them so crowded that they’re fighting for resources. Check the plant label for recommended spacing – it’s usually expressed as a distance between plants. Remember, they will grow, so don’t be tempted to cram them in!

Now, for the digging. The hole should be just a tad wider than the root ball and about the same depth. Gently remove the plant from its container, teasing apart any circling roots. This encourages them to spread out into the surrounding soil.

Pop that little guy into the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with your amended soil, gently firming it around the plant. Give it a little pat – you’re basically tucking it in for the night.

Water, Water Everywhere (But Not Too Much!): Initial Watering

Alright, the final step! After planting, give your ground cover a good, thorough watering. This helps settle the soil and gets those roots off to a good start.

But remember, we’re talking drought-tolerant plants here, so don’t go overboard! The key is to water deeply and less frequently. For the first few weeks, keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Once your ground cover is established, you can gradually reduce watering frequency. Think of it as weaning a baby off the bottle – they need less and less as they grow bigger and stronger.

Proper installation and initial care are the foundation for a thriving, water-wise landscape. Get it right, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, low-maintenance ground cover that’s the envy of the neighborhood. Now, get out there and get planting!

Maintaining Your Living Carpet: Long-Term Care Tips

So, you’ve traded your thirsty turf for a fabulous spread of drought-tolerant ground cover – congratulations, you’re officially a water-wise wizard! But like any spell, or in this case, garden, it needs a little tending to keep working its magic. Don’t worry; it’s easier than you think. Think of it as giving your green babies a spa day, regularly.

Irrigation: Drip, Drip, Hooray!

Ditch the sprinklers and embrace the drip. We’re talking drip irrigation, folks! It’s like giving each plant a personal water bottle instead of a wasteful shower. This method delivers water directly to the roots, minimizing evaporation and keeping those sneaky weeds from getting a drink. Set it on a timer and adjust it based on the weather. Remember, even drought-tolerant plants appreciate a good soak occasionally, especially during those scorching summer months in SoCal. Think less is more.

Mulch Ado About Something:

Imagine wrapping your ground cover in a cozy blanket that keeps their roots cool, keeps moisture in and smothers weeds – That’s the magic of mulch. Adding a layer of organic mulch, like shredded bark or compost, helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Plus, it looks pretty darn good. Aim for a 2-3 inch layer, keeping it away from the plant stems to prevent rot.

Weeding and Pruning: Keeping Things Tidy

Even the toughest ground cover can’t fend off every weed invader. A little hand-weeding goes a long way. Do it regularly, especially when weeds are small, and you’ll save yourself a major headache later. As for pruning, most drought-tolerant ground covers are pretty low-maintenance, but a little trim now and then can keep them looking their best. Snip off any dead or damaged growth, and if things get a bit too wild, give them a light shaping to maintain their desired form.

Pest Patrol and Disease Defense: Organic is the Way to Go

Southern California’s mild climate can sometimes invite unwanted guests to your ground cover party. Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, snails, and spider mites. Address any issues early with organic solutions like insecticidal soap or neem oil. Good air circulation and proper watering can also help prevent fungal diseases. Remember, a healthy plant is a happy plant, and a happy plant is less susceptible to pests and diseases.

Conserving Water: Advanced Irrigation and Rainwater Harvesting

Okay, so you’ve got your drought-tolerant ground cover planted, looking all lush and lovely, but let’s face it – even the toughest plants need a little sip now and then! We’re in Southern California, after all, where water is basically liquid gold. So, how do we keep our gardens thriving without emptying our wallets and feeling guilty every time the sprinklers go on? The answer lies in advanced irrigation and tapping into nature’s free resource: rainwater!

Drip, Drip, Hooray! Mastering Efficient Irrigation

Forget those wasteful sprinklers that spray water everywhere except where you need it. Drip irrigation is where it’s at! Think of it as giving each of your precious plants a personal water bottle, delivered slowly and directly to their roots. This means way less water lost to evaporation and runoff. Plus, you can get all fancy with timers and soil moisture sensors.

• Timers: Set it and forget it! Program your irrigation system to water only when needed, like early in the morning when evaporation is low.
• Soil Moisture Sensors: These little gadgets are like plant whisperers. They tell you exactly how thirsty your soil is, so you only water when necessary. Talk about smart watering!

Rainwater Harvesting: Turning Showers into Garden Showers

Remember that feeling of dread when the forecast calls for rain? Well, kiss it goodbye! Rain in Southern California is a gift, and we should be catching every drop!

• Rain Barrels: These are the classic rainwater catchers. Place them under your downspouts, and let them fill up with free water for your garden. Just remember to keep them covered to prevent mosquitoes from throwing a pool party.
• Cisterns: Think of rain barrels’ bigger, cooler cousin. Cisterns can store a whole lot of water, perfect for larger landscapes. They can be above-ground or below-ground, depending on your space and budget.

By implementing these advanced water conservation strategies, you’ll not only be saving money on your water bill but also doing your part to protect our precious resources. Your garden (and your conscience) will thank you!

Where to Find Help: Your Local Dream Team for Drought-Tolerant Landscaping!

Okay, so you’re ready to dive headfirst into the world of beautiful, water-wise ground cover? Awesome! But sometimes, a little guidance from the pros can make all the difference. Think of it like assembling your own A-Team…but for gardening! Here’s where to find your local landscaping gurus:

Nurseries: Your Plant Paradise Awaits!

First stop: Local Nurseries specializing in drought-tolerant plants. These aren’t your average big-box stores; these are places where the staff actually knows the difference between a Sedum and a Sempervivum. They can give you personalized recommendations based on your specific yard conditions and help you choose the perfect plants for your little slice of Southern California paradise. Pro-Tip: Call ahead and ask if they have a drought-tolerant specialist on staff!

Botanical Gardens: Inspiration Blooms Here!

Next up, let’s get inspired! A visit to a Botanical Garden featuring California native plants is like taking a masterclass in landscaping with nature.

• Specifically, you should check out Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden in Claremont. It’s the place to see a huge array of California native plants in all their glory. Seriously, it’s like a native plant fashion show.
• Don’t forget the South Coast Botanic Garden on the Palos Verdes Peninsula! With diverse gardens and stunning views, you can get lost for a day while you check out sustainable gardening practices.

Wander through the gardens, take pictures of your favorite ground covers, and get a sense of how these plants can be used in a real-world setting. Plus, it’s a relaxing way to spend an afternoon – win-win!

California Native Plant Society (CNPS): Connect With Fellow Plant Lovers!

Want to nerd out about native plants with like-minded individuals? Join the California Native Plant Society (CNPS)! This organization is a treasure trove of information, resources, and passionate plant people. They offer workshops, field trips, and plant sales, so you can learn everything you need to know about growing California natives successfully. Plus, you’ll make some new friends who are just as obsessed with Arctostaphylos as you are.

Local Water Districts & University Extension: Knowledge is Power!

Last but not least, don’t forget about your Local Water Districts and the University of California Cooperative Extension. These organizations are your go-to source for practical advice, water conservation tips, and even potential rebates for implementing drought-tolerant landscaping. Check out their websites for valuable resources, workshops, and information on local water restrictions. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to saving water and creating a beautiful landscape.

Navigating Regulations and Saving Money: Water Restrictions and Rebates

Okay, so you’re officially on board with the drought-tolerant ground cover revolution! You’re picturing lush, green (or maybe silvery-blue, depending on your plant choices) carpets in your yard, all while feeling good about using less water. But hold up a sec, before you grab your shovel and start digging, let’s talk about the not-so-glamorous but super important side of things: regulations and money. Because let’s be honest, saving water is fantastic, but saving money while doing it? Even better!

Understanding Local Water Restrictions and Regulations

Think of water restrictions as the “rules of the road” for water usage in your area. They’re put in place by your local water district to ensure everyone’s doing their part during dry times. These rules can vary wildly depending on where you live in Southern California. In Los Angeles County, for example, you might have different rules than someone in San Diego County or the Inland Empire. Generally, they cover things like when you can water your lawn, how long you can water for, and even what types of water features (like decorative fountains) are allowed.

So, how do you find out what the water rules are in your specific neck of the woods? Simple! Head over to your local water district’s website. Seriously, Google “[Your City/County] water district” and dive in. You’ll typically find a section dedicated to water restrictions, with all the details you need to stay on the right side of the water cops (yes, they exist!). Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to these things. Penalties for violations can range from a gentle warning to hefty fines, and nobody wants that!

Digging into Rebates for Drought-Tolerant Landscaping

Now for the fun part: free money! Okay, it’s not exactly free, but it is money you can get back for making water-wise landscaping choices. Many water districts and even some cities offer rebates to homeowners who switch to drought-tolerant plants, install efficient irrigation systems, or remove thirsty turf.

These rebate programs are designed to incentivize water conservation, and they can seriously help offset the initial costs of transforming your landscape. Imagine getting cash back for replacing that water-guzzling lawn with a gorgeous tapestry of Dymondia, Creeping Thyme, and Stonecrop!

The amount of the rebate varies depending on the program and the specific changes you make. Some programs offer a certain amount per square foot of turf removed, while others provide rebates for specific types of irrigation equipment. Again, your local water district’s website is your best friend here. Look for sections on “rebates,” “incentives,” or “water conservation programs.” You’ll find information on eligibility requirements, application processes, and the amount of money you can potentially save.

Pro Tip: Don’t start any work until you’ve applied for and been approved for the rebate. Some programs require pre-approval before you begin your project. Also, be sure to keep all your receipts – you’ll need them to claim your rebate!

So, next time you’re thinking about ripping out that thirsty lawn, why not consider one of these ground covers? Not only will you be saving water and time, but you’ll also be adding some serious curb appeal to your Southern California home. Happy planting!