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alifornia's climate includes long dry summers and the periodic failure of winter rains -water is a precious and often scarce resource. With projected population growth, it is estimated that by 2020 the '"'' ~ state will face annual water shortages, even during years of regular rainfall. Yet one-third of all urban water is applied to landscapes. What's more, much of this water is used in excess or at the wrong time of year: residential properties are regularly over-watered by 30-40%. Water-wise landscaping is, however, more than efficient irrigation and xeriscapes. It also means augmenting the water holding capacity of the soil to create drought resistant soils. Water-wise landscaping makes use of alternatives to potable water such as recycled water, graywater, or captured rain. And, it relies on the latest in irrigation controller technology for the most efficient application of water possible. The landscape professional can offer the following critical expertise in conserving water: ^r' ~~ U S.i ^~ ~a I I. Create drought resistant soils with compost & mulch A robust, living soil, with sufficient organic content, is the foundation of a water conserving landscape: I cubic foot of soil holds roughly 1.5 quarts of water for each I % of organic matter The amount of irrigation water required for a landscape thus varies signifcantly with soil quality. ^ Know the soil texture. ^ Incorporate 2-4 inches of compost into the top 6-12 inches of soil to reach a target soil organic matter of 3.5% under turf and 5% in planting beds. ^ Topdress with compost around shrubs and trees, and on turf. ^ Regularly apply mulch to all exposed surfaces to encourage living soils and reduce evaporation. ^ For additional practices see Nurture the Soil in these guidelines. ^ Finally, consider applying high quality mycorrhizal innoculants, available as root dips, mixes, tablets and solutions. Compost can increase permeability and water-holding capacity, thereby reducing the need for irrigation and lowering water bills. 2. Grow drought tolerant CA native or Mediterranean plants California native plants have evolved with local ecosystems and adapted to our soils, wildlife and climate -including no rain for 6 months of the year. Many natives, as well as many Mediterranean species, tolerate dry summers without watering once they are established. ^ Keep in mind that California's climate and soil can vary significantly, as can native plant species. Not every native is drought tolerant: some, like Salix spp. (Willows) and Populus fremontii (Cottonwood), need moist soil. Select the native species that match the site soil and microclimate and if possible, choose local ecotypes. ^ Or select plants from Mediterranean climates that also thrive with little irrigation. ^ Plant in fall so the plants can establish their root system during the rainy season and require less water their f rst dry season. ^ Water drought tolerant species for their f rst one or two summers, until they are established. ^ Minimize high water use ornamentals. Appropriately sited native or Mediterranean type plants often require less soil preparation, watering, mowing, fertilizing and spraying, which can reduce your operating costs. CA native species are relatively easy and inexpensive to implement on a trial basis. Using local natives reduces the risk of spreading non-local plant species. Landscaping with natives and Mediterranean plants require little or no irrigation once established and provide a sense of the seasons. z ii a a 0 c i a 34