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Slides from lecture giving in the 'Out of the Wilds and Into Your Garden' lecture series
Citation preview
© Project SOUND
Out of the Wilds and Into Your Garden
Gardening with California Native Plants in Western L.A. County Project SOUND – 2014 (our 10th year)
2014: Bringing Nature Home - Lessons
from Gardening Traditions Worldwide
© Project SOUND
Many cultures, same message: the best gardens are both
beautiful and sustainable
© Project SOUND
Myths, Magic & Madness:
common myths about CA native
plants and gardening
C.M. Vadheim and T. Drake
CSUDH & Madrona Marsh Preserve
Madrona Marsh Preserve
December 6 & 11, 2014
© Project SOUND http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bf/Hype-Cycle-General.png
Myths about California native plants
© Project SOUND
Myth 1 : ‘California natives are invasive
‘weeds’ that will take over the garden’
© Project SOUND http://weeklygravy.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/BruceEmmett-Folio-Illustration-Agency-
Boutique-Shop-Fine-Art-Prints-Oil-Painting-Vintage-Portrait-Retro-Alien-XL.jpg
Co-myth: ‘Roadside ditches and vacant
fields/lots usually contain native plants’
© Project SOUND
Origins of the myth?
Mistaking invasive non-native ‘weeds’ or garden escapees for native plants
Observation of some natives: some grasses & other native naturalizers and spreaders
© Project SOUND http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b0/Arundo.donax2web.jpg
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/sustainable gardening)
Some grasses (needlegrasses in particular) do spread via seed; others spread by runners – this is true whether native or not
Annual native wildflowers, some Salvias, buckwheats and other plants ‘naturalize’ – but is that necessarily bad?
© Project SOUND
Re-seeding plants: sign of garden health
and a boon to busy gardeners
© Project SOUND
Naturalizing plants are a natural
part of garden succession
Practical ecology: fill ‘empty’ spaces in a new
garden with annuals & short-lived grasses
© Project SOUND
‘Spreader’: just another word for ground
cover
Some plants (native or non-native) spread via rhizomes
Use them as ground covers - they do just what you want
In general, native groundcovers will be limited by some resource: shade; water; etc.
The most invasive ground cover plants are common garden non-natives: the ivies, asian honeysuckles, iceplant, Vincas
© Project SOUND
http://www.make-my-own-house.com/images/ivy.jpg
Myth 2 : ‘Native plants attract vermin and
undesirable insects’
© Project SOUND http://mindfulfitnessmovement.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/blogfacefearsmarysia_.jpg?w=610
Where did the myth
originate?
? Observation of more insects (including native pollinators) on native plants
? Observation of lizards, snakes and other reptiles/ amphibians associated with native plants in the wilds (or possibly gardens)
Association with the word ‘wild’
? The horticulture industry (which wants you to plant their ‘garden’ plants)
© Project SOUND
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/ sustainable gardening)
Native plants do attract more native insects, birds, lizards and possibly snakes & other small critters (depending on how close you live to a wild area).
The majority of these visitors (particularly the native ones) do not harm the plants – they ‘grew up together’ and hence ‘play nicely’
Many native plants attract beneficial insects, birds – those that keep harmful insects in check (IPM)
Less water = fewer snails, slugs, mosquitoes
© Project SOUND
Plants that often provide habitat for flea-
carriers in S. CA gardens include:
Algerian ivy (Hedera canariensis)
Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.)
California and Mexican fan palms (Washingtonia filifera, W. robusta)
Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis) Creeping fig vine (Ficus pumila [= F. repens])
Italian cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
Natal plum (Carissa macrocarpa [= C. grandiflora])
Oleander (Nerium oleander)
Sydney golden wattle (Acacia longifolia)
Yucca (Yucca spp.)
Cape honeysuckle (Tecomaria capensis)
Non-native fruit trees & their fruits
© Project SOUND
Non-native – many invasive
Other things that attract ‘undesirables’
Rotting fruit on the ground
Uncovered or overflowing compost or trash bins, particularly with meat or dairy products (don’t use these in compost bin)
Pet food/uneaten bird food
Buildings with easy access – seal gaps, openings
Trash/utility piles (wooden pallets; furniture; firewood; pipes; etc.)
© Project SOUND
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-
cORBzzR5ENo/UHO9Xp98tZI/AAAAAAAABLQ/bDuOZL_gK2s/s1600
/sknks.jpg
Myth 3 : ‘Native plants will spontaneously
combust – they are a serious garden hazard’
© Project SOUND
http://physicalism.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/flame.gif
http://s169.photobucket.com/user/Ahnacarp/media/woman_screaming.gif.html
Origins of the myth?
© Project SOUND
http://www.utahpeoplespost.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/California-Wildfires_sham-11.jpg
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/sustainable gardening)
Vegetation fires need a spark
Lightning
Sparks from wildfires
Open fires that ‘get away’ or aren’t extinguished
Downed power lines
Tossed matches & cigarettes
Sparks from brush-clearing equipment (including chainsaws)
Deliberately set (human)
Prescribed burns that ‘get away’
Sparks from bullets hitting rocks
Fireworks
© Project SOUND
How many garden fires have you heard of? How many
home kitchen fires?
Dry plants will burn – native or not
If you live in a fire-prone area:
Plan a ‘defensible zone’ and keep it green (native or non-native)
Don’t do mechanized brush clearing in hot, dry times
Urban/suburban gardens
Consider keeping ‘public’ areas relatively green: areas near streets & sidewalks, alleys
Don’t plant trees that spread flames from house to house: Eucalyptus
Palms
© Project SOUND
http://www.napafirewise.org/DS%20Download/defensable-space-
live/img/sections/4/zonesmap.jpg
Consider the likely spark sources in your
neighborhood – if serious problem, plan
ahead
Conclusion: Myth partly correct
Native plants don’t spontaneously combust
However, some native plants make great fuel, particularly when dry
Fire is not an important threat in many urban/suburban home gardens
Consider the real threats in your neighborhood. If you need to:
Choose plants that are evergreen – and keep them so
Consider preventive pruning and watering during high risk times
© Project SOUND
http://www.bringingbackthenatives.net/nancy-wenningers-
garden?gid=148&idx=35
© Project SOUND
Myth 4 : ‘Native plants are hallucinogenic,
poisonous or otherwise downright
dangerous’
http://www.insidethemagic.net/2013/09/first-timers-face-fears-for-halloween-horror-nights-2013-as-universal-studios-hollywood-debuts-more-of-the-walking-dead/
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/sustainable gardening)
Some plants (native or not) have thorns, prickles, sharp edges, etc.
Some plants (native or otherwise) are poisonous – they are often the basis for effective medicines
© Project SOUND http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/22/Nerium_oleander_Ouarzazate_wild2.jpg
http://www.gardeningwithtomleroy.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Delphinium-Larkspur-Mix2.jpg
Rose
Oleander Larkspur/Delphinium
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/sustainable gardening)
Some plants (native or not) can cause skin or other allergic reactions in sensitive people
And yes, some plants are hallucinogenic – and can kill you if don’t take the correct dose
© Project SOUND
©2002 Charles E. Jones
http://www.saguaro-juniper.com/i_and_i/flowers/datura/datura.html
Bottom line: need to consider the properties
of any plant before you choose it
© Project SOUND
Whether it’s native or not –
really makes no difference
Conclusion: myth equally correct for
native and non-native plants
Myth 5 : ‘Everyone should plant native
plants in most of their garden’
© Project SOUND
Where did the myth originate?
Native plant enthusiasts
Native plant nurseries (who of course want to sell more plants
© Project SOUND
The reality: native plants do poorly in
some situations
There are urban areas where many native plants don’t survive (or do so only with substantial maintenance).
Such areas can include parking strips, traffic circles, and parking lots: in short, areas with limited soil area and lots of environmental stress.
© Project SOUND
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/3f/PuenteHillsMall.jpg
Characteristics of sites that may be
challenging or unsuitable for native plants
Significant compaction and other physical disturbances as a result of continuing animal, pedestrian, and vehicular traffic
Alkaline pH due to leaching of lime from surrounding concrete
Lack of adequate water in summer months
Increased heat load from asphalt/ concrete reflectance and absorption
High air pollution exposure
© Project SOUND http://forestry.usu.edu/images/uploads/MikeTrees/LargeTrees0011Sandy7-25-03.jpg
http://bluegreenbldg.org/wp-
content/uploads/2011/01/EmeryvilleDoyleHollisPark20110206_29.jpg
Site considerations
should always dictate
plant selection.
For sites with limited, alkaline,
and/or poorly drained soils, choose species from environments with similar soils. Consider especially those species that tolerate clay soils.
For sites exposed to increased heat load, choose species adapted to hot, dry climates that can also tolerate cool, wet winters.
© Project SOUND http://www.tn.gov/agriculture/images/forestry/Urbanforests.jpg
Myth 5 : ‘Everyone should plant native
plants in most of their garden’
© Project SOUND
Myths about gardening with
California native plants
© Project SOUND
Myth 6 : ‘Always double-dig/rototill and
amend the soil prior to planting’
© Project SOUND
http://www.creswelldoescher.com/urbanfarm/Urbanfarm%20Blog/EEF5817A-1429-43FB-BAFE-
554D7584C7F5_files/rototilling.png
Where did the myth originate?
Agriculture: ‘plow the fields’ before planting
Emphasis on high productivity
Climates with cold, heavy, damp soils (think PA; Great Britain)
Some plants (often those from very different climates than ours) have special needs
The horticulture industry: selling products – Big $$$$$$$$ © Project SOUND
http://www.mylifeinthedirt.com/garden-soil-amendments/my-7-most-important-organic-soil-
amendments/ http://www.growbiointensive.org/Self_Teaching_2.html
The ‘reality’ (for sustainable gardening)
Some plants do need ‘special growth medium’ (if you choose to grow them):
Vegetable garden plants: high productivity requires high nutrient levels, friable soils
Acid-loving plants (including some N. CA natives)
If the medium is very different from your native soil it’s often easiest to containerize: Raised beds
Containers
Planters
© Project SOUND
http://www.planetnatural.com/vegetable-gardening-guru/
The ‘reality’ (for sustainable gardening)
Best in the long run to choose plants suitable for your soil conditions, rather than the other way around.
Most locally-native California natives don’t need a lot of soil prep if well-chosen
Goal: sustainability not high productivity
Downsides to moving soil:
Brings up buried weed seeds
Disrupts soil structure and soil ecosystem (yes, there’s a whole ecosystem down there)
© Project SOUND
Sub-Myth: ‘Add sand to soils to improve
drainage’
Reality: add sand to clay soil and you get concrete
Better options:
Choose plants that like clays
Add some micro-topography to increase drainage
Container garden for plants requiring ‘excellent drainage’
© Project SOUND http://tpprod.blob.core.windows.net/sys-master-
tpprodcontainer/hf9/h61/8820825980958/H0247_220112_00_PP_300Wx300H
http://images.lowes.com/product/converted/764661/764661156505lg.jpg
Sub-myth: ‘You have ‘terrible soil’ - you
need to add some mycorrhyzae’
The myth: all plants need mycorrhyzae to grow well
The reality: Mycorrhyzae are often
site/plant specific – ‘generics’ won’t help
Your soil likely already has some natural species
Many plants from dry, alkali places (like ours) don’t have mycorrhyzal partners
© Project SOUND
http://giantveggiegardener.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/myco_tomato2plantsedit.jpg
http://www.microfarms.com/store/gel.jpg
Myth 6 : ‘Always double-dig/rototill and
amend the soil prior to planting’
© Project SOUND
http://www.creswelldoescher.com/urbanfarm/Urbanfarm%20Blog/EEF5817A-1429-43FB-BAFE-
554D7584C7F5_files/rototilling.png
Myth 7 : ‘California native plants need less
water than their non-native counterparts’
© Project SOUND
Alternate myth 7: ‘Native plants need no
supplemental water – plant & ignore’
© Project SOUND
Alternate myth 7 : ‘Puppies need no
supplemental water – bring home & ignore’
© Project SOUND
That sounds like puppy endangerment to me!
http://images4.fanpop.com/image/photos/16000000/Cute-Puppies-puppies-16094619-1280-800.jpg
Where did the myth originate?
Northern California native plant nurseries/gardeners
The Water districts and others that promote ‘water-wise’ gardening
The ‘we live in a desert’ myth
© Project SOUND http://cnps-yerbabuena.org/img/events/gardenTour2013/85H/3.jpg
http://www.wallpaperup.com/uploads/wallpapers/2013/07/14/118600/279
98005797a415cd483dd09abd53aee.jpg
In western L.A. County we do not (and
probably never will) ‘live in a desert’
© Project SOUND http://www.exploringnature.org/graphics/ecology/biome_pyramid_poster72.jpg
We do not (and hopefully never will) ‘live in a
desert’
© Project SOUND
http://ml816.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/world-biome-map.gif
http://www.english-online.at/geography/deserts/deserts.htm
• breezes from the ocean
• mountain ranges to east
• temperature moderation by ocean
• vegetation
http://blog.petmeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/socal_elevation.jpg
Sunset Climate Zones
ZONE 11. Medium to High Desert of California and Southern Nevada Growing season: early April to late Oct. Summers are sizzling, with 110 days above 90 degrees F/32 degrees C. Balancing this is a 3 1/2-month winter, with 85 nights below freezing and lows from 11 degrees to 0 degrees F/-12 degrees to -18 degrees C. Scant rainfall comes in winter.
© Project SOUND
ZONE 13. Low or Subtropical Desert Growing season: mid-Feb. through Nov., interrupted by nearly 3 months of incandescent, growth-stopping summer heat. Most frosts are light (record lows run from 19 degrees to 13 degrees F/-17 degrees to -11 degrees C); scant rain comes in summer and winter.
http://img1.sunset.timeinc.net/sites/default/
files/image/climate-zones/wgbmap-
cadesert-w-m.jpg
In western L.A. County we do not (and
probably never will) ‘live in a desert’
CA Desert
Precipitation: Generally < 5 inches
Rain + snow
Precipitation pattern: winter/spring except Sonoran
Soils: mostly very well-drained; alkali
Temperatures: Winter: lows 0-20° F
Summer: highs usually > 100
Our mediterranean climate
Precipitation: Generally 10-14 inches (up to
20+ in wet years
Rain
Precipitation pattern: winter/spring
Soils: variable, including poorly draining clays
Temperatures: Winter: lows in 40’s
Summer: mostly 80’s-low 90’s
© Project SOUND
The reality: using CA/Baja Desert plants
in local gardens can present a challenge
Mojave Desert plants Dry conditions for the most part (3
to 10 inches) except for desert riparian
Need summer dry
Need well-drained
Sonoran Desert plants Very dry conditions (2 to 6 inches )
but variable
Summer monsoons
Great Basin Desert plants Many need colder winters
Some need summer monsoons
© Project SOUND
http://www.mbgnet.net/sets/desert/desert.gif
Of course, as more plants are
replaced with hardscape, the
more desert-like we become –
that’s why we need plants
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA sustainable gardening)
California native plants are as water-wise as their native habitat: desert to rain-forest
Know where a plant hails from – then follow the rain patterns for that geographical place
© Project SOUND
http://www.dwfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/desert-botanical-garden-3.jpg
http://www.laspilitas.com/images/grid24_24/3213/s/images/plants/242/Dipl
acus_aurantiacus-1.jpg
© Project SOUND
How to we know what plants will be most
water-efficient for our area?
Consequences of water-wise choices
© Project SOUND
http://www.about-garden.com/images_data/3169-ceanothus-
impressus-victoria-blueblos-2.jpg
Compromise: some
green/some not
© Project SOUND
Most of us need some green
Aesthetics
Necessity – curb appeal; covenants/regulations; etc.
Using a combination of evergreen and seasonally dormant plants:
Can be done with CA native plants
Makes Water Zone gardening a necessity
What will our future climate be like?
© Project SOUND
My recommendations for plant choices
At least 1 tree
Several evergreen shrubs as evergreen backdrop: S. CA chaparral species best Evergreen; provide height,
habitat, interest
Hardy: take drought, heat, water
Plants from Zone-spanner list: tolerances from water zone 1-2 to 2-3
Zone 1 to 1-2: many of the local natives – may have more tolerance to wet years than we think!
© Project SOUND
The time to prepare is now:
climate change is here
© Project SOUND
Myth 8 : ‘Never use drip irrigation or
overhead watering with native plants’
Origins of the myth?
Native plant nurseries – particularly those from Central and Northern CA (where over-watering is more of a problem)
Gardener’s experiences, particularly with older technologies – killing plants by over- or under-watering
© Project SOUND
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/66/217778727_06dd962495.jpg
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA sustainable gardening)
Most gardens need some supplemental water, at least in drought years and while they are becoming established
Whether ‘no overhead water’ is an option depends on the garden
Rain water is overhead water – what makes it different (in S. CA) is that it comes in the cold months
Overhead watering: done prudently:
Only when needed, based on soil conditions, Water Zone requirements
In conditions that mimic natural ‘wet days’ – cool days; late afternoon/early morning
© Project SOUND
http://img.hgtv.com/HGTV/2008/11/26/gby1707_2d_hose-trickling-water_s4x3_lg.jpg
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA sustainable gardening)
Drip irrigation (or buried soaker hoses) can be a godsend in some situations:
Water Zone 3 areas (vegetable garden; tropical ornamentals; etc.)
Pots on a patio
Newly planted gardens – provide supplemental water until established
This type of irrigation requires regular monitoring and maintenance:
Water only when the soil indicates a need
Check for breaks/malfunctions
Reposition as root systems develop
In many cases, view as a temporary measure
© Project SOUND
© Project SOUND
Myth 8 : ‘Never use drip irrigation or
overhead watering with native plants’
S. CA is drier – use these with caution
Myth 9 : ‘California native plants are difficult to
grow’ or ‘California natives are easy to grow’
© Project SOUND
Sub-myth 9 : ‘Native plants are not as
tough/vigorous as exotic plants’
© Project SOUND
http://kathrynanddavid.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/potato-fungus-07-adj.jpg
Origins of the myth?
Gardeners experiences with native plants (particularly those new to gardening with native plants)
Horticulture industry (growers, sellers & designers) – who have cherry-picked the easiest to grow & install plants from around the world
Native plant enthusiasts/ nurseries, who want to promote native plant gardening
© Project SOUND
http://www.junglemusic.net/The%20Queen%20Palm.html
Queen palm – way over-used in
S. CA gardens
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/sustainable gardening)
We think that tropical plants are ‘vigorous’ because we water and feed them all the time (we baby them)
Tropical plants with too little water (i.e., drought) are just as dead as native plants with too much water.
© Project SOUND http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-
5QvgyRIzAKs/UYmvg2F0z2I/AAAAAAAAD94/hoEsqReG_vc/s1600/P1018112.JPG
Current U.S. Drought
Monitor
http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/Home/RegionalDroughtMonitor.aspx?west
80% of CA in ‘extreme’
or ‘exceptional’ drought
Which looks more like S. California?
© Project SOUND
http://www.noratobin.com/wp-content/uploads/rainforest-rainforest-
32472978-1024-768.jpg
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--
hV0oSj7_Ak/UDl7dfwfgOI/AAAAAAAAGCM/SGELjxtGd0o/s160
0/Plants-for-tropical-gardens+3.jpg
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA sustainable gardening)
Many local native plants need less water, fertilizers, etc. than traditional garden plants; that can take some getting used to.
© Project SOUND
http://washington.uwex.edu/agriculture/horticulture/master-gardener/
Conclusion: both myths are partly correct
California natives are no more difficult to grow than any other plant with proper selection, installation and maintenance.
You do need to choose plants appropriate for your conditions: plant choice and placement is more important than in a conventional garden
And you do need to know more about each plant group to know how to maintain them
© Project SOUND
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c3/Gardening.jpg
Most gardening services currently do not employ persons with native plant experience
We need to encourage the development of training opportunities for local ‘gardeners’ - to turn the ‘mow & blow guys’ into the true gardeners of the future
© Project SOUND http://www.lucygardens.com/images/gardening-coloring-page-8.gif
Some native plant gardeners would like to
use a landscape service
Myth 10 : ‘Natives belong here so they
won't need any care’
© Project SOUND http://realmoneynoscams.com/how-to-sell-snake-oil-in-five-easy-steps/
‘Common sense’: if they grow here naturally then they’ll just grow
Wishful thinking
© Project SOUND
Origins of the myth?
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/sustainable gardening)
You likely want your garden plants to look a bit more garden-like than the same plants in the wild; gardens are transitions between the wild and the tamed
Your garden and the wilds are different in some important ways:
No/few animals to do the pruning
Extra heat from urban hardscape
Other (supplemental irrigation, etc.)
You are trying to create an ecosystem (mature garden) much faster than Mother Nature does – and that has consequences for maintenance
© Project SOUND
The maintenance is different…
More weeding (in the beginning)
Yearly mulch renewal – where appropriate
Summer pruning (chaparral shrubs)
Fall/winter pruning
© Project SOUND
http://www.yellcrew.com/how-to-mow-a-lawn-with-a-rotary-mower/how-
to-mow-your-lawn/
The first few years (of any garden)
require more work. Once the
garden is established, many native
plants require less maintenance
than conventional garden plants
Sub-myth 10 : ‘Native plants generate less
garden waste’
The waste is certainly different
The waste (clippings/prunings) tends to be concentrated at certain times of the year
Much of the ‘waste’ can be used? Use as mulch or compost
Use for garden crafts
Use for edibles
© Project SOUND
But do native plants actually
generate less waste? http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tZSsTT2LIxE/UW-
CtrvpfVI/AAAAAAAAAZw/2g94RlO5Hws/s1600/Bag+grass+clippings.jp
g
Garden/Garden
— A Comparison
in Santa Monica
In 2004, the city of Santa Monica constructed two 1,900-square-feet demonstration gardens on two adjacent front yards.
The “Traditional Garden” incorporates commonly used exotic species/lawn.
The sustainable “Native Garden” uses exclusively native California plants.
© Project SOUND
http://www.asla.org/sustainablelandscapes/gardengarden.html
Garden/Garden — A Comparison in Santa Monica
© Project SOUND
http://www.asla.org/sustainablelandscapes/gardengarden.html
Maintenance is required – but the tasks and timing are different. Established native plant gardens likely require less maintenance
© Project SOUND
Conclusion: myth partly correct
Myth 11 : ‘Leaves should always be raked up’
© Project SOUND
Origins of the myth?
Concern about fire danger
Concern about spreading leaf-attacking diseases, particularly fungal diseases
Appearance: ‘fallen leaves look untidy’
© Project SOUND
https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=270
Rose black spot
The ‘reality’ (sustainable gardening)
Gardens that are drier have less disease than those that are watered more regularly
Diseased leaves (from native and non-native plants) should be raked up and disposed of.
Leaf litter provides food for lots of soil critters and returns soil nutrients (more in February, 2015)
Leaf raking is an important task in very formal gardens (remember the formal Japanese gardens)
© Project SOUND
Myth 11 : ‘Leaves should always be raked up’
© Project SOUND
Conclusion: myth partly correct;
situational
Myths about garden design
related to California native plants
© Project SOUND
Myth 12 : ‘Native plants are not as showy
or ornamental as exotic plants’
© Project SOUND
Alternate myth 12 : ‘California native
plants look scrawny, scraggly, and ratty’
In truth, there are also plenty of non-native plants that look pretty bad
© Project SOUND
http://www.bringingbackthenatives.net/wp-content/gallery/bbtn/turner/turner-1.jpg http://www.estately.com/listings/info/21122-new-hampshire-avenue
Alternate myth 12: ‘Plant a native landscape
and you will be scorned by your neighbors’
© Project SOUND
http://www.julieorrdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/Morrow-0951.jpg
http://unleadedwriting.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/SCREAM-7622556-300x226.jpg
Origins of the myth?
Observation of native plants in the dormant season
The horticultural industry, including traditional designers
© Project SOUND http://room42.wikispaces.com/file/view/chaparral_lanscape.jpg/30500677/572x342/
chaparral_lanscape.jpg
http://st.houzz.com/simgs/42f1504a001890aa_4-5055/traditional-landscape.jpg
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
The reality: many showy CA native plants
Why else would people around the world go to great lengths to grow them?
© Project SOUND
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/sustainable gardening)
You are likely to get to know more of your neighbors
Some will like the flowers
Many will like the butterflies and birds
Some will just be curious
© Project SOUND
The importance of signage: what you’re
doing is different, so think ‘educate’
© Project SOUND
California Native Plant Society has a great new sign
http://store.cnps.org/collections/frontpage/products/native-plant-garden-sign
The ‘reality’ (S. CA sustainable gardening)
Some CA natives are pretty year-round (evergreen and other) ; others are seasonal stars
You can choose the mix that’s right for your garden
© Project SOUND
http://www.gardenideaspicture.us/2013/08/native-garden-ideas.html
The dormant season has magical beauty
© Project SOUND
We need to cultivate our taste
for the subtle beauties of life
California natives: plants for the sophisticated
palate
© Project SOUND http://www.miceshots.com/usr/65/ITP_-_040513f-IMG_0268.jpg
http://bethelinn.com/site/dining-choices/nik_0242
http://images.tdaxp.com/china/20060523/CIMG2300.JPG
© Project SOUND
Myth 12 : busted – CA has some of the
prettiest plants around
Myth 13 : ‘California native plants/gardens
are too expensive’
© Project SOUND http://www.laspilitas.com/stores/escondido
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/ sustainable gardening)
Good non-native plants really aren’t that cheap any more, even at the big box stores – $15-$40+ for shrubs, trees
Native plants can be obtained inexpensively Plant sales & featured plants
End of season (May/June)
Grow your own from seed
Many of the more expensive natives are long-lived
Long-term costs of natives are often less than non-natives
© Project SOUND
http://www.growswitch.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Home-
Depot-Garden-Centers-stop-neonics.jpg
http://mytutorlist.blogspot.com/2010/06/gardening-adventures-with-cheap-plants.html
Garden/Garden — A Comparison in Santa Monica
© Project SOUND http://www.asla.org/sustainablelandscapes/gardengarden.html
The native garden cost $16,700 to install compared $12,400 for the
traditional garden.
Conclusion: Myth 13 mostly busted
Native plants can be obtained at prices comparable to non-natives
You need to figure total costs over the life of the plant(s) for a true comparison © Project SOUND
Myth 14 : ‘Native plants grow too slowly’
© Project SOUND
The myth’s origins?
Observation of native plants and non-native, tropical plants and annuals (by just about everyone)
The horticultural trade
Cultural: need for instant gratification; ‘time is money’
© Project SOUND http://www.metro.us/local/shofuso-japanese-garden-gets-a-traditional-style-makeover/tmWmhn---
c7x5dLWrpWHA/phl_garden-614x443.jpg
http://cohesion.rice.edu/NaturalSciences/Arboretum/emplibrary/HPIM1195.JPG
http://www.rushindustries.com/mm5/graphics/00000001/Garden%20Butterfly%20
Mat%20Instant%20Flower%20Garden.jpeg
Instant Butterfly Garden!!!!!
‘Slow Gardening’ movement
Gardens develop like nature, taking
their time
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/ sustainable gardening)
Many locally native shrubs and sub-shrubs grow remarkably fast (even in the past two record drought years)
© Project SOUND
2012
2013 2014
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/ sustainable gardening)
Larger shrubs/trees take longer to establish (2-4) years – hence the saying ‘first they sleep, then they creep and then they leap!’
5-8 years for large hedgerow; 2-4 years for smaller hedge
© Project SOUND
2008
2012 2014
Espalier wall
© Project SOUND
One year
Two years
Three years
Plants grow at their own speed, whether native or non-native
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/ sustainable gardening)
Slow growth = long life (seems to be a basic principle of life)
Some things are worth waiting for
We all should be planting water-wise trees right now
© Project SOUND
Sub-myth 14 : ‘Bigger is better – buy the
5- or 15-gallon instead of the 1-gallon’
Most large plants have their own growth schedule (pre-programmed growth rate)
Some reasons not to buy large:
$$$$ Cost $$$$
Exposure to bad habits in the nursery setting (too much water, fertilizer, etc.)
Smaller sizes develop better root systems – they have room to grow naturally (in the ground) when young
Younger plants are more adaptable; become better acclimated to your microclimate
© Project SOUND
http://m1.i.pbase.com/o4/62/480162/1/91715821.svXuslMD.DS
CF3269.jpg
Reality: in several years the 1-gallon will likely outperform the
larger size native shrub/tree
Myth 15 : ‘All California native plants
require full sun’
© Project SOUND
http://www.bringingbackthenatives.net/jean-halfords-garden?gid=175&idx=3
Origins of the myth?
Many people think Coastal Sage Scrub or Chaparral when they think ‘native’
Many local native plant gardens feature these plants
This is what ‘drought tolerant’ plants are ‘supposed to like’, right
© Project SOUND
http://www.gardenideaspicture.us/2013/08/native-garden-ideas.html http://img1.myhomeideas.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/image/legacy/designassistant/06
06_sunset_outdoorroom4_l.jpg
We need to plant shade trees: how can I
use native plants?
© Project SOUND
http://www.bringingbackthenatives.net/wp-content/gallery/2010/bairdharper/harper-106.jpg
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/sustainable gardening)
Several local Native Plant Communities feature many plants that thrive in shade:
Southern Oak Woodland (dry shade)
Yellow Pine and Mixed Evergreen Forest (medium moisture shade)
Riparian Forest
Even the sunnier communities have plants that like a little shade
Those that grow in canyons
Those that grow on North-facing slopes
© Project SOUND
Gardens with a little shade are so much
more interesting
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http://www.bringingbackthenatives.net/wp-content/gallery/bbtn/habets/habets-9.jpg
They are cooler and often more water-wise
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http://chanceofrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Emily-Green-Garden-34.jpg
You can grow natives under existing trees
– even oaks, eucalyptus and citrus
© Project SOUND
Don’t rip out a good
‘heritage’ shade tree just
because it’s not native
Conclusion: myth busted
Not all shade is dense shade; many native plants do very well in part-shade
There are plenty of native choices available for dry shade, moist shade and everything in between
Review last month’s talk (container plants for shade) and the Aug. 2010 talk (woodland wonders)
Look at the ‘Dry Shade’ plant list.
© Project SOUND http://www.bringingbackthenatives.net/nancy-wenningers-garden?gid=148&idx=35
© Project SOUND
Design a little shade in
your garden – for
health and beauty
Myth 16 : ‘Nursery tags are an accurate
indicator of final plant size’
© Project SOUND
http://paintingtruth.typepad.com/.a/6a0133f5b5ed56970b014e881c535a970d-800wi
Many factors affect final plant size
Plant’s genetic makeup
Soil structure
Soil nutrients
Water
Light
Other plants
Pruning
Gophers
Dog pee
Etc.
© Project SOUND
Add 10-20% to largest size on plant
label – it’s better to choose a plant
that’s a little too small than too big
Myth 17 : ‘You can’t plant native and non-
native plants together’
© Project SOUND
http://the-gist.org/2012/09/allelopathy-when-plants-attack/
Origins of the myth?
Native plant enthusiasts – who think native plants are the only thing anyone would ever want to plant
Native plant nurseries, who want to sell you their plants
The idea that CA native plants are somehow different from other plants in their basic biology
© Project SOUND
The ‘reality’ (for sustainable gardening)
There’s no law – biological or otherwise – that says that native and non-native plants can’t be grown together
The plants do need to be compatible (light; soil; water requirements; etc.)
© Project SOUND
http://www.tierraseca.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/atherton_new.jpg http://marvistamom.com/wp-content/uploads/3930-keeshen-001.jpg
http://www.garden-view.com/NewsletterIMG/califnatives.jpg
Conclusion: myth busted Combine or not – the choice is yours, as long as plants have compatible requirements
Some needs cannot be filled by native plants alone
If choosing non-native species, be sure they are life-friendly: Not invasive, disease-prone
Provide added value: food etc.
Provide habitat
Some good plants to combine with CA natives: Mediterranean plants, herbs
Citrus, olives, dry climate fruits
Plants from surrounding states
© Project SOUND
Myth 18 : ‘Native plants cannot be used
formally’ or ‘MUST be naturalistically arranged’
© Project SOUND
http://www.westadamsheritage.org/read/548
Sub-myth: ‘Native yards and gardens look
like the forest, or are too wild and messy’
© Project SOUND http://www.laspilitas.com/garden/examples/small-los-angeles-native-garden.htm
http://arboretum.ucdavis.edu/gardens.aspx
Garden featuring CSS plants
Garden featuring Coastal Prairie
plants
Origins of the myth?
Many current native plant gardens are naturalistic:
Designed by homeowners – designers are late to the table in terms of using CA natives
They’ve been designed by nature lovers – having a garden that looks like nature is fabulous!
© Project SOUND
http://www.katherine-greenberg.com/resources/wholegarden.jpg.opt776x518o0,0s776x518.jpg
http://www.atwatervillagenow.com/2012/04/12/for-garden-lovers-atwater-village-
garden-in-weekend-long-tour/
http://www.bringingbackthenatives.net/jennifer-becker-and-dean-mayers-
garden?gid=176&idx=9
Origins of the myth?
Many public gardens with native plants have a naturalistic appearance because they’ve been designed to teach people about native plants or about nature
© Project SOUND
Garden of Dreams – CSUDH
Designed to introduce children to a locally
native ecosystem - in a ‘safe’ , discovery
garden environment.
Maintained more naturally to give kids a
sense the seasons, experience wildlife, etc.
Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
Formal garden - traditional
© Project SOUND
http://www.houzz.com/photos/1292178/Formal-Garden-Design-traditional-landscape-chicago
This was the type of garden that classy/wealthy
folks had; a source of inspiration and
something to aspire to
It was also a style for much wetter places than S. CA
The formal-informal continuum: contemporary
© Project SOUND http://caplants.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/gardena1.jpg
http://www.trbimg.com/img-51423a6d/turbine/la-lh-spring-garden-tours-2013-
20130314-001/600/600x399
http://www.lastormwater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/0402-Native-
Garden-600x383.jpg
http://www.nutrisespas.org/inspirational-designs-to-create-fascinating-
outdoor-spaces/
The ‘reality’ (for
sustainable gardening)
You can use native plants in very formal plantings (after all, our natives are so used in English gardens) IF
Plants are chosen carefully for their formal appearance (this is true whether plants are native or not) – shape, density, growth speed and habit, evergreen (at least backbone plants)
You are willing to take the time to maintain the plants/garden; regular pruning, sweeping, etc.
You spend a little water (usually)
© Project SOUND
http://nativeplantwildlifegarden.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Marnee1.jpg
© Project SOUND
No reason to use non-native plants
http://www.ygpshow.com/images/AspenCreek_Formal_l.jpg
Apparently no one told European
gardeners that native plants cannot be
used formally
Native American plants are used
frequently in formal European gardens.
They are also used in American gardens such as the Centennial Flower Garden in Denver, which is a replica of the gardens of Versailles.
‘On a recent trip to the Netherlands to look at gardens, I was repeatedly surprised how well and how often Europeans use our native plants.’
© Project SOUND
Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus
ledifolius) hedge
http://habhero.org/an-unsung-hero-of-the-winter-dry-garden/
Secrets to making a garden look more formal:
Use formal hardscape and/or planting design
Limit plant choices
Mass plantings/ repetition
Plan contrasts carefully
© Project SOUND
http://www.archdaily.com/158403/fran-and-ray-stark-sculpture-garden-j-paul-
getty-center-olin/ http://www.wildsidegardentour.com/school-guide
http://www.bringingbackthenatives.net/wp-content/gallery/bbtn/turner/turner-1.jpg
Sub-myth 18: ‘Native plants can’t be massed
(or any other design principle)’
Why not ?????????
© Project SOUND http://edenmakersblog.com/?p=953#sthash.hjqJb7UV.dpbs http://www.gardenista.com/posts/dry-garden-roundup-best-drought-tolerant-low-water-designs-
from-the-gardenista-gallery
© Project SOUND
http://rwa.watersavingplants.com/GWTours.php?index=4
Conclusion: myth 18 busted
You can use native plants to create a formal garden. It may take extra planning and maintenance, but the choice is yours.
© Project SOUND
Centennial Gardens, Denver – modeled after Versaille gardens
Myth busted: native plants are not an excuse
for ignoring the principles of good design
© Project SOUND
Myth 19 : ‘I’m just one person. Why garden
responsibly when my neighbors don’t?’
© Project SOUND
http://cmsimg.visaliatimesdelta.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=J4&Date=20140305&Category=NEWS01&ArtNo=303050011&Ref=AR&MaxW=640&
Border=0&Visalia-City-Council-plans-vote-more-stringent-water-use-rules
The myth origins?
The chronic nay-sayers
The horticulture industry
Discouraged water-wise and life-friendly gardeners
© Project SOUND
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/sustainable gardening)
We’ve all seen it: build it (habitat) and they will come
Habitat destruction & climate change make gardens even more important: home, school, church and business landscapes
© Project SOUND
The ‘reality’ (for S. CA/sustainable gardening)
Giving up doesn’t get the job done
We need to work smarter – using all the ‘tricks’ of marketing
© Project SOUND
And here’s where the magic comes in…
© Project SOUND
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed
citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing
that ever has. - Margaret Mead
© Project SOUND
http://www.matilijanursery.com/articles/full-living-color-all-year-just-about/
© Project SOUND
Keep on truckin’ – blue skies ahead
2014: Bringing Nature Home - Lessons
from Gardening Traditions Worldwide
© Project SOUND
2015: Sustainable Living with California Native Plants
© Project SOUND