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California Native Plant Care Section

1. Plant Selection and Soil

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Choose the right plant for the right place.

  • Match plants to sun exposure: full sun, part shade, or full shade.

  • Understand your local ecosystem — coast, inland valley, foothill, chaparral, woodland, desert.

  • Prioritize well-draining soil. Most natives, especially chaparral species, dislike heavy or compacted soil.

  • For clay soils: mound, amend lightly with coarse materials, or choose clay-tolerant natives.

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2. Watering and Irrigation

Best Practice

  • Deep Watering: Water deeply to encourage deep root growth. Allow soil to dry between waterings.

  • Drip Irrigation: Efficiently delivers water to the root zone, reducing waste.

Drought Tips

  • Mulching: Retains soil moisture and reduces evaporation.

  • Grouping Plants: Plant species with similar water needs together.

  • Drought-Tolerant Species: Choose plants adapted to dry conditions.

3. Pest and Disease Management

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

  • Encouraging Beneficial Insects: Attract predators like ladybugs and lacewings.

  • Organic Treatments: Use neem oil, insecticidal soaps, and natural remedies.

Common Issues

  • Aphids: Remove with water spray or introduce beneficial insects.

  • Powdery Mildew: Improve air circulation and apply organic fungicides.

  • Root Rot: Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.

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4. Garden Design

Design Tips

  • Layout: Plan for height, spread, and bloom time. Use layers for visual interest.

  • Pathways: Create paths for easy access and maintenance.

Wildlife Gardens

  • Attracting Pollinators: Plant nectar-rich flowers and provide water sources.

  • Bird-Friendly Plants: Include berry-producing shrubs and trees for food and shelter.

5. Maintenance and Fertilization

Pruning and Trimming

  • Techniques: Prune to remove dead wood, shape plants, and promote healthy growth.

  • Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring for most natives.

Seasonal Checklists

  • Spring: Planting, mulching, and fertilizing.

  • Summer: Watering, weeding, and pest control.

  • Fall: Planting, pruning, and soil preparation.

  • Winter: Pruning, tool maintenance, and planning.

Organic Fertilizers

  • Compost: Rich in nutrients, improves soil structure.

  • Fish Emulsion: Provides nitrogen and other essential nutrients.

  • Seaweed Extract: Boosts plant growth and resilience.

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6. Educational Resources

Workshops and Classes

  • Local Events: Check community centers and botanical gardens for workshops.

  • Online Courses: Explore virtual classes on native plant gardening.

Books and Publications

  • "California Native Plants for the Garden" by Carol Bornstein, David Fross, and Bart O'Brien.

  • "Bringing Nature Home" by Douglas Tallamy.

7. Sustainable Practices

Composting and Recycling

  • Garden Waste: Compost leaves, grass clippings, and vegetable scraps.

  • Recycling: Use recycled materials for garden projects.

Water Conservation

  • Rainwater Harvesting: Collect rainwater for garden use.

  • Greywater Systems: Reuse household water for irrigation.

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8. FAQs and Troubleshooting

Common Questions

  • Why are my native plants not flowering?

    • Check for proper sunlight, watering, and soil conditions.

  • How do I control weeds in my native garden?

    • Use mulch and hand-pull weeds regularly.

Expert Advice

  • Local Experts: Contact local garden centers or extension services for personalized help.

Additional Tips

Mulching

  • Benefits: Retains soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and improves soil health.

Plant Communities

  • Grouping: Plant species that naturally grow together to create a thriving ecosystem and reduce maintenance.

Do's and Don'ts

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References 

CNPS
Calscape
bloom-california

Get in Touch with Us

Ready to start your restoration project? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward restoring your native landscape.

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