How do I create a meadow in back yard with drought tolerant plants?
by
Krhinca
+1
I live in So California, region 9 for planting. I have a large back yard that is mostly weeds, due to lack of water. I want to create a peaceful meadow to be a relaxing getaway to destress. The yard is almost all direct sun, except for a bit of shade under 2 trees. I'm on a fixed income, and so need a low cost, DIY plan. First, to kill grass-like weeds w/out chemicals (I have 2 dogs), then to choose drought tolerant meadow plants. Thanks
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https://www.calwater.com/conservation/low-water-drought-resistant-plants/......smother the area out with heavy black plastic.once the area of weeds etc, are dead, remove and amend the soil, lay heavy landscape fabric down cut xs in the material ,pull back enough to plant, place your landscape plants, make sure you dig the holes twice the size of the root ball width and depth,plant and make sure you tamp the soil to rid of air holes
I also am in the same planting zone here in Southern CA.
Replacing the backyard grass with clover.
Killed the remaining grass with vinegar, took about 10 gallons from Costco or Sam's Club (or any restaurant supply or Smart & Final), at $2 a gallon. Or you can smother with newspaper, cardboard, landscape fabric or black plastic - no sun = no grass or weeds.
Have you thought about Xeriscaping?
https://www.pinterest.com/mxel/california-native-plants-usda-zone-9b/
https://www.gardenia.net/plant-combinations/hardiness-zones/9
Native grasses are beautiful, but take care when choosing as some of them when they "bloom" they let off stickers that can get lodged in the dogs ears and if not caught right away and removed, can cause infection. I have had to take the dogs to the vet on more than one occasion (from picking up on walks or hikes, not my yard.) I have 3 dogs, 3 next door neighbor dogs, 6 cats, a canary and a dragon. And a toddler next door that visits often. So no chemicals in my yard.
Hope this helps!
What you are talking about is xeriscape. You can talk to your local nursery or community outreach for the least expensive xeriscape plants for your area.
eWe used to live in a similar region in AZ. Above ideas are solid. Also realize that plants, even large potted ones, need fertilizer and water as transplanting will cause them "trauma". Until they are well-established in their new setting, adjusting to low water situations will be difficult on them. Since you are in a water conservation area, do save water (from dishes, baths, cooking pasta, rain barrel, etc.) This conserved "extra" water will help these new plants survive.
Covering the ground with mulch and/or stones after the garden is planted will help retain moisture near the roots and keep the hot summer sun from further drying out the plants. Natural gardens are best, including not just draught-resistant plants but include cacti and large rocks of varying types for visual interest.