All visits home usually include get together's and dinners on the town with family and friends. Whenever a walk or plant themed adventure can be substituted, I jump at the opportunity. Learning about plants from others is a living learning experience. On this occasion, we were guided by our gracious hosts to see the changes they made to their suburban 1/4 acre.
To the great joy of my sister, parents, and I, this tour proved to be an interesting and inspiring one. And I, not wanting to miss an opportunity for garden inspiration, took some pictures of my favorite elements of the tour and yard.
Gardening in California has many challenges. Though easing up now, the bioregion has suffered a decade of drought. To thrive and adapt many have switched to a water wise, or xeriscape, style of gardening.
More about Xeriscape :: Basically, the term means "dry landscape" and is a tactic for planning yards with limited water available. More than pure utilitarian goals, this creates beautiful landscapes made up of plants that need a minimal amount of water to thrive.
The focus is on drought tolerant, native and adapted plants that can get by on little or no irrigation. Shade, rock paths, and mulch are all integral parts of conserving, and enjoying water.
Though water conservation is practiced and most of the plants are intended for bird and insect habitat, there was also a few yards of garden with winter greens and peas growing.
Just outside the kitchen, this sector of raised beds takes advantage of full sun with a bit of protection by a row of trees.
Beyond a nice breakfast, fun chats, and a tour of their lovely land, we were also gifted with a head of lettuce.