Showcase Features: The owners' 36 year old garden started showing its age - with a deteriorating patio, drainage problems, a walkway being lifted by the beautiful mature maples, and an old lawn that was in poor shape. With the help of Sherri Osaka (Sustainable Landscape Design) and EarthCare Landscaping, they transformed both front and back into spaces that will be beautiful for many years to come. The front, formerly front lawn, is anchored by a Dwarf Coyote Bush (still small, but should grow to fill the space). A new front walk incorporates a slate stone deck that spans the maple tree roots and avoids future problems with the roots of these beautiful trees. Water-friendly features include permeable pavers for the driveway and downspouts that drain into dry wells. A beautiful natural stone sculpture by local artist Ken Matsumoto includes a small basin that can be filled with water for the birds. In the back, aggregate patio squares were repurposed as stepping stones and sun-loving drought tolerant natives such as San Bruno golden aster, seaside daisy, and lupine mulched with bark. A bubbling fountain is the focal point of an area with visually interesting dark blue pebbles and an agave.

Other Garden Attractions: A small California redbud, coffee berry, penstemon, and deer grass provide color and visual interest. Iris douglasiana will eventually colonize some of the available space in front and in the back. The result is an eye-catching garden that is no longer flat and boring. In addition to California natives, an herb garden and fruit trees were incorporated in the back design.

Gardening for Wildlife: Many different birds enjoy the new garden. The plant choices are bird friendly, and the water in both front and back are a special attraction.

Years of CA Native Gardening at this Location: 4

Garden Size: 3000 sq ft

Designer: Sherri Osaka, Sustainable Landscape Designs
Installer: EarthCare Landscaping

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