Our garden began its transformation 7 years ago with the removal of a 3” layer
of Zoysia grass that
dominated the front lawn. I considered a mass planting of a favorite
California native plant, Red Twig Dogwood, but my curiosity spurred a
plant sanctuary filled with a large variety of California natives and
cultivars of the natives, along with vegetables, and various acquired
additions through the years.
When a new plant arrives I
let it naturalize, either reproducing, or dying out if it can’t
adapt to its niche. Native berries I have planted are enjoyed by
birds and forest visitors. They include Service Berries, Oregon
Grape, Black Caps, and huckleberries, along with the garden’s
bounty of strawberries, blueberries, mulberries, and cherries. The
White Crowned Sparrows especially love the Creeping Raspberry fruits.
We have hosted up to 12
nests in past years. I love trees! With limited space, I planted a
few dwarf versions of California trees, along with 8 fruit trees, and
more trees in pots.
Throughout the yard I’ve placed cement leafs
for collecting little pools of water from the fog, appreciated by the
bugs and birds.
At the solar fountain I enjoy watching the humming
birds have a hover shower and young birds splash around. This mature
garden is a haven for animals, insects, and people alike.