Dry Gardens in the Bay Area

I am always on the hunt for alternative, dry garden ideas here in the San Francisco Bay Area. I think a lot of people are, because I am finding some really interesting, creative replacements for the obligatory lawn.

Bark is big. You can cover your dead lawn with bark to preserve the top soil, and help retain water in the soil. Plant shrubs, grasses, and ground covers in the fall to give roots a chance to establish; as the plants mature, the bark is not so dominating. Bark comes in a variety of sizes and textures from small to large, and smooth to shreddy, and comes in colors, such as red, brown, and black. The bark breaks down into the soil, so you do need to replenish it periodically.

Landscaping with bark

Rocks and gravel can perform the same function. They also come in multiple sizes and textures. Large, rounded rocks can look stunning, as can small flat smooth stones. Gravel can be used as a dry stream bed, and planted with seasonal plants, like self-seeding California poppies. A large rock used in isolation, or a group of rocks, adds variety and emulates nature. Some yards implement a “mixed media” approach – using native ground covers and plants, interspersed with hardscape such as railroad ties, slate, cement, rocks.


Landscaping with gravel

I miss the lush green lawns, but love seeing how landscape designers and home owner are coming up with alternatives. Some designs may be transitory to get through the drought, others are innovative and change the way we approach our yards.