By Jenifer Aragon --

 

                                                                           In September, I sent along a blog on the turf removal in my front yard (Look Mom!  No Grass!)  So here's the update.  The photos really say it all but here are some notes of interest.

 

In the very front is purple Lantana.  It is the one Lantana I have found that is actually well-behaved.  It does want to drape over the curb which is pretty.  I keep it trimmed off the street otherwise leaves and grass clippings blown about by the wind get trapped there.

 

The pink bottlebrush is a small tree but will take a couple of years to get to Crape Myrtle size.  It blooms and then reblooms.  It is so pretty!  I get lots of comments on it.  The bees LOVE it!  And speaking of bees, they also love the teucrium which is bordering the sidewalk. 

 

I showed a photo of the little sitting area.  (I'll eventually put in some pavers for the walkway)  There is just enough foliage that I can sit there in seeming seclusion.  My yard makes me very happy!  Thanks again to fellow Master Gardener Katherine Botts for the design.  It really helps to soften the hard rectangle shape of my house.

 

Living in Bloomington, I have water service from West Valley Water District.  I had an automatic drip system directed by a sensor that monitors rain, humidity and temperature and adjusts the watering time accordingly.  For that I received a $150 rebate.  And for the turf removal, $250!  That is a total of $400 for doing my part to save water!  Hurrah.

 

I hope you have enjoyed this.  See you next blog!  Jenifer Aragon, Master Gardener 2008