Now is the perfect time to start planning your garden! In the semi-arid climate of the Santa Clarita Valley, the plants you choose to establish must be able to tolerate drought conditions and temperature extremes. Check out CLWA’s and the City’s new plant book Colorful Landscapes for Water Conservation for a list of Santa Clarita-friendly plants. This is an excellent tool to bring with you to local nurseries while you shop for plants. Once you have selected your plants, it is important to hydrozone your landscape by grouping together plants with similar watering requirements.

Colorful Landscapes for Water Conservation offers an easy-to-read color-coded system highlighting Santa Clarita-friendly plants that will work well together to form a hydrozone. By grouping your plants together you will be able to control the watering of each hydrozone. This will help you avoid over-watering, which in turn will save you money and water!

Light fertilization is required in the spring, summer and fall. Prepare for spring gardening by selecting your fertilizer now. For the best results, experts recommend slow-release or organic fertilizer.

By planning ahead, you will be able to craft a beautiful, water-efficient garden in the months to come. Get to work now and spend your spring season enjoying your creation!

Colorful Landscapes for Water Conservation booklets are available at the City of Santa Clarita’s kiosk at City Hall as well as at Castaic Lake Water Agency (CLWA) at 27234 Bouquet Canyon

Road. For more water conservation tips, please visit CLWA.