Using Native Plants/Flowers

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Bloomer (Zone 9a) Mar 04, 2001

Due to last years' drought, I've decided to use natives as the mainstay of my gardens, keeping the more 'demanding' plants to a minimum. I've convinced my Mom to do the same, as she is on fixed income...her water bill is currently $65 before she ever turns on the faucet, with another rate increase due soon!

I've been greatly inspired (and educated) by reading the Wasowski's books about landscaping with native plants.

Are there any other 'native' enthusiasts here in DG?

In the garden,
Bloomer

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Grits Pineville, LA(Zone 8b) Mar 04, 2001

I've made that decision also, Bloomer. I'm tired of the expense of making them work, lol.

I've also started growing from seeds which is great! For a $3 pack of seeds, I can get about 100 plants - then if they don't make it, it's not an issue.
Blessings,
Grits

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louisa Troy, VA(Zone 7a) Mar 04, 2001

I think this has to be the way to go. I'm all for the native species. We have lots of Joe Pye weed here and intend to grow it (a coveted plant back in the UK). Also I just love the Albizia tree (mimosa) and hoping to grow this too. I am told that given a good wet Spring there will be an abundance of wild flowers. We are indeed having these conditions and am so looking forward to these sightings.

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michele5000 Joshua Tree, CA(Zone 8b) Mar 04, 2001

Bloomer , This has become my newest way to garden, and it is the smartest. If you have any native wildflowers, open your eyes this spring, look and I bet you will see things you have never seen before. Just collect the seeds from what is around you. Watered occasionally and fertilized and pruned as needed. You will have a wonderful native garden. This is how I have it set up. I have my water intensive area near the house. the further you get from this area the less water. My Xeriscape stuff is at the edge of the property. Agave, cactus. I use grey water from my washer(never use bleach. a pool hose hooked up to the water outlet, down hill
watering.)The water intensive area gets this. Also this water intensive spot is on the North side,and I have planted a windbreak of drought resistant trees, Eucalyptus, Palo Verde , Mesquite, Olive. to the Northwest, a microclimate is established.
My water bill Aug-Sept 1999 was $220.00!!!!!
That was when I decided to conserve.
Feel free to e-mail me . I have learned a lot. I am still learning too.
Good sources. http://www.plantsofthesouthwest.com
reasonable prices seeds and plants no min. order
http://www.highcountrygardens.com
also a good one. Good Luck! Michele

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michele5000 Joshua Tree, CA(Zone 8b) Mar 04, 2001

Bloomer Me again. I would like to offer you my seed list too. Go take a gander. And get back to me. Send me a SASE.
If you think you have anything on my want list that would be great. Not neccesary though.

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