Plant low water use plants that thrive in summer dry climates in at least 75% of your total landscaped area. Consider watering thirsty plants like vegetables, fruit trees and flowers with greywater or rainwater.
Certification Requirement
A minimum of 75% of the total irrigated landscaped area is planted with species that require no or little summer watering once established. Species should be adapted to the climate in which they will be planted.
Community gardens and edible garden areas are exempt from the requirement.
Recommendations
Low water use California native or Mediterranean plant species are strongly recommended.
High-medium water use plants can be irrigated with greywater or rainwater.
Helpful Resources
• WUCOLS - Water Use Classification of Landscape Species
• Water Smart Gardening in Santa Cruz County
• Monterey County Waterwise Landscaping
• Sunset Western Garden Book
