Common name:California Meadow Sedge
Botanical name:Carex pansa
This native Carex can be successfully used as a lawn substitute but requires significant water to obtain good coverage. Once coverage is reached, water can be reduced and maintenance is close to zero. Unmowed, the plant can be used effectively in a variety of conditions and will reach a height of 6" or under and spreads up to 2' by rhizomes.
Common name:Five-Spot Nemophila
Botanical name:Nemophila maculata
This beautiful annual is a California native that grow to about 1' tall. Its showy white flower is about 1" wide, with lobes of purple dots. There are usually 5-9 lobes, thus the common name, Five-Spot, for the purple splashes of color on the outer petals. The seeds are greenish-brown and are either smooth or shallowly pitted. Bees love the nectar from the fruit.
Common name:Coral Bells
Botanical name:Heuchera cultivars
These perennials have wonderful flowers in colors ranging from white to deep crimson. The flowers bloom in spring and these plants are popular in masses or borders.
| Designer: | Reptile on the Wall |
Photographer: GardenSoft |
Soils and Compost:
Maintain a two to four inch layer of mulch on the soil surface to reduce weeds, infiltrate rain water, and reduce compaction.
Water Saving Tip:
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.
Integrated Pest Management:
Remove irrigation water and fertilizer from areas where you don't want weeds to grow.