If you think the best way to have a green garden is with a huge expanse of lawn, you’re like most people. Lawns are a part of our culture, and are a ubiquitous feature of front yard landscaping. Unfortunately, they also need a lot of water to maintain their lush good looks, and water is a precious commodity in sunny California.

So, how can you maintain your yard’s good looks without that gorgeous lawn? The answer is simple – get creative and go with native, drought-resistant plants.  I was recently inspired by the wonderful landscaping at the Dierberg Winery (http://www.dierbergvineyard.com/) tasting room up in Santa Barbara County. Simple outcroppings of sage and lavender, coupled with rock lined beds and bark, really worked well together.