Where the Wild Things Grow (View Park)

Removing a backyard lawn revealed a magical garden space. Decomposed granite pathways wind between California native plants and lead to vegetable beds that feed a family of four, and to other secret places. Wildflowers abound late winter through early summer, and California Fuchsia blooms scarlet midsummer through fall. Homeowners lovingly hand water their garden using water saved in rain barrels.

Native-Fabulous (Westchester)

A front lawn is transfigured into a native plant sanctuary with a recycled concrete pathway lined with Creeping Thyme. Aromatic Wooly Blue Curls and Hummingbird Sage greet the homeowner after a long day at work. Facets of this ecological garden include colorful blooms year-round, low maintenance, a water conserving drip irrigation system, and plants that support populations of native butterfly species.

Eco-Hideaway (Santa Monica Mountains)

A canyon dwelling blurs the line between home and nature. California native plants including Sagebrush, Ceonothus, Manzanita, and Black Sage grace a steep hillside to provide slope stabilization, wildlife refuge, and a fragrant, silvery vista with ample room for wandering. Vegetables, berry bushes, and edible flowers are tucked into terrace planters for foraging on the way to the front door. A water conserving drip irrigation system was built with a non toxic material called Blu-Lock, and a weather sensitive water timer ensures the irrigation stays off when it rains.

PRIVATE GARDENS