A 3-YEAR GUIDE FOR RELANDSCAPING

Year One

Year 1Many typical home gardens have large areas of lawn bordered by a few shrubs, with a scattering of two or three trees planted in the lawn. Begin by identifying your goals. Turfgrass should be kept to areas where it is needed for play or recreation. Hardscapes such as covered patios and decking provide a good surface for outdoor recreation. Shrubs and groundcovers are beautiful, low maintenance alternatives to lawn areas. Trees can provide shade in summer and help keep homes cool. Create intimate, private areas using paths, open areas, and garden furniture placed under shady trees.

1 . Decide which elements you want to include in your garden.

2. Make a plan which shows lawn, plantings and hardscape. Remember, when you rethink your landscape, consider function first and foremost. Group plants according to irrigation needs whenever possible.

3. Plan your irrigation system so it meets the needs of your new landscape.

Year Two

Year 2


1. Begin by installing all hardscape areas. This will prevent you from disturbing your plantings with construction. Hardscapes require no water and can result in dramatic water savings for your landscape.

2. Renovate your existing irrigation system to accommodate your new plan. Replace portions of your spray sprinkler system with a drip irrigation system for trees and shrubs. Drip irrigation is the most water efficient, is healthiest for plants, and reduces run off and erosion.

3. Plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of buildings to provide summer shade but allow winter sun. Evergreen trees and shrubs placed on the north side of your home or business help retain winter warmth.

Year Three

Year 3

1. Adjust irrigation for new plantings.

2. Add more shade trees, areas of mulch, and lawn furniture for private areas.

3. Add groundcover for extra color.

4. Add shrubs for beauty and a more natural looking landscape.

 

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Table of Contents

Home
Introduction
Know your Local Ordinance
Desert Climate
Analyze Your Site
Landscaping a New Home
Soil Amendments
Planting Your Landscape
Make Your Own Compost
Designing and Installing
       your Irrigation System
Relandscaping for the
       High Desert
3 Year Guide for
       Relandscaping
Maintaining an Established        Landscape
Maintaining Your Irrigation        System
Water Budget Method of         Irrigating Trees and
        Shrubs
High Desert Lawn
        Watering Guide
Do You Have a Fire Hazard?
Erosion Control
The High Desert Seasons
Turf Grasses for the
        High Desert
Plant Lists
     Shrubs
     Vines
     Groundcover
     Plants for Color
     Trees

Acknowledgments


Victor Valley Water District
 

17185 Yuma Street, Victorville,  CA 92395-5886
Voice: 760/245-6424  Fax: 760/245-9219
Customer Service: 760/843-3156

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