A Landscaping Journey

Our company revived the curb appeal of a 1940s home in San Marcos, CA, concentrating on drought-tolerant native plants and utilizing a drip irrigation system for optimal plant care and to reduce water usage. The existing landscape consisted of tired sod and minimal aesthetic appeal. However, with a clear vision in mind and a commitment to sustainability, our team of professional landscapers, tree trimmers, and tree removal service embarked on a journey to breathe new life into the front yard.

photo of front yard with palm trees and partial weed barrier being installed before adding more plants
Before image of the planning and implement stages of installing drought-tolerant landscaping in San Diego

First Step: Planning the New Landscaping Makeover

The transformation began with meticulous planning. While designing the layout, we worked with the homeowners to map out their vision, carefully considering the area’s measurements and the condition of existing plants and trees. This initial assessment was crucial in ensuring that the new design seamlessly integrated with the home’s surroundings and would work well with the trees that would remain within the scope of the new landscape design.

Step 2: Preparing the Yard and Clearing the Way

Once the landscaping plan was in place, it was time to clear the yard. The existing sod, mulch, and unwanted plants were carefully removed, revealing a clean slate ready for rejuvenation. Plants earmarked for retention were pruned and tidied, setting the stage for their revitalization within the new landscape. Prior to plant installation, a professional grade weed barrier was installed to reduce the growth of weeds and assist with ease-of-maintenance in the future. Weed barrier was laid and marked for plant placement.

Step 3: Fine-Tuning Plant Placement

Working with the homeowner’s plan and making planting adjustments as as we worked, the potted plants were placed in their planned locations. Drought tolerant and native plants were strategically positioned according to the plan, with careful consideration given to size, scale, and visual balance. This approach ensured that each plant had ample space to thrive and contribute to the overall aesthetic of the landscape. Once the plan was set in stone, holes were dug, and plants were nestled into their new homes, setting the stage for the final embellishments.

Step 4: Installing Smart Irrigation

Once the plant placement was finalized, work began on installation of the drip irrigation system. Our professional installers built the irrigation infrastructure, ensuring efficient water distribution to sustain the forthcoming greenery. Thorough testing was conducted to identify and address any issues, ensuring the system’s effectiveness before proceeding with the next steps.

Step 5: Installing the Plants and Ground Cover

With the irrigation system working, our team cut the weed barrier and installed the plants. Mulch was chosen on this project due to its ability to retain moisture for longer periods of time and regulate soil temperatures for periods of harsher weather. Although mulch will need to be reapplied as it breaks down and some weeds can grow on top of the weed barrier, it is still much easier to pull the weeds since they are unable to root into the actual ground.

River rock, mulch, and other selected ground covers were artfully arranged to add texture and dimension to the landscape. Each element was placed with precision, following the blueprint outlined during the planning stage.

Step 6: Installing a Walkway for Better Accessibility and Beauty

The homeowner wanted to create visual focus for the front yard as well as create a pathway for ease access to other parts of the yard. Utilizing Platinum Gold flagstone, we created a path through the new plants. Our team hand placed and set a flagstone pathway from the front door to the side yard gates. Although this can add cost to a project, we recommend looking into this option in adding permanent beauty that will last. As the finishing touches were put in place, a palpable sense of accomplishment filled the air, marking the completion of the transformation.

Celebrating Achievement

With the hard work done, it was time to step back and admire the results. The once lackluster front yard had undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, emerging as an environmentally conscious, drought-tolerant oasis. Native and drought-tolerant plants flourished under the gentle embrace of the drip irrigation system, their vibrant colors adding depth and character to the landscape. This transformation stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design and sustainable practices in creating landscapes that not only inspire but endure for generations to come.

**Plants used on this project: Blue fescue grass, Mexican feather grass, Mystic spires salvia, Lavender, Sweet Pea bush, Society garlic, foxtail agave, Coast rosemary, Natal plum

view from front porch of mature drought tolerant landscaping pavers mulch and river rock
View of mature drought-tolerant landscaping and a favorite spot for morning coffee