Compiled by Joan Goff, UC Master Gardeners of Placer County
So, you want to replace that thirsty lawn with something that uses less water but still looks beautiful? Good idea! But where to start?
There are several elements to consider in making this change.
- Remove the existing lawn
- Plan your new garden
- Change the irrigation to an appropriate drip system
- Purchase the new plants
- Plant
- Mulch
- Enjoy!
These links will show you how to get rid of the lawn:
How to Kill Your Lawn with Sheet Mulching, Master Gardeners of Placer County
Prepping and planting, installing Your Landscape, California Native Plant Society
These articles will give you options for plants:
8 Options for Replacing Your Lawn, Along with Their Pros and Cons, Southern California Public Radio
Sustainable Gardening, UC Davis Arboretum
Life After Lawn, UC Davis Arboretum
UC David Arboretum All Stars, UC Davis Arboretum
Drought Tolerant Plants for Zones 8 & 9, Master Gardeners of Placer County
Choosing Your Plants, California Native Plant Society
If you want to nerd out on how to water, these links will help:
Water Use of Turfgrass and Landscape Plant Materials, University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources
Water Use Classification of Landscape Species, University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources