With our low winter rainfall and water restrictions on the horizon, it’s time to think seriously about transitioning to native plants which require much less water than traditional plantings. Coincidentally, April 17-24 is California Native Plant Week (always the third week in April). Why should you garden with natives?

• Reduce water usage
• Reduce maintenance
• Reduce or eliminate fertilizer and pesticides
• Increase biodiversity
• Increase birds, bees, and butterflies
• Create a landscape with gorgeous color, texture, and scent

To celebrate, the California Native Plant Society will host a virtual 360° tour of a native garden every day of that week. In addition, the Marin Chapter of CNPS is hosting a native plant sale April 14-21st (order online and pickup on April 24 in Greenbrae).  Now is a great time to go native!

For more information, Marin Master Gardeners has good advice about native plants in general, and alternatives to traditional lawns in specific. You should also check out all Sausalito Beautiful’s information on planting natives.