There is an imbalance in our ecosystem that has created a serious drought in California with many repercussions. Those of you who tried have gone skiing in the mountains or fishing in the lakes, there is no denying the dire situation.
With one year of water supply left in our reservoirs and no reprieve in sight, Governor Jerry Brown recently stated in a press release, “This historic drought demands unprecedented action. Therefore, I’m issuing an executive order mandating substantial water reductions across our state. As Californians, we must pull together and save water in every way possible.”
Xeriscaping is a good feng shui solution because it offers many benefits beyond saving water. Xeriscaping uses drought resistant native plants that require minimal maintenance and simple irrigation systems. Native plants thrive in existing soil and do not need additional fertilizer or pesticides. Since there will be little or no turf, this practically eliminates the pollution created by gas mowers. Finally, native plants also provide familiar habitat that support local wildlife. Creating a sustainable environment for humans, animals and plants is one of the goals of feng shui.
Master Jenny’s Xeriscape Design
The main feature of the xeriscape design for our Arcadia home office is the front garden. Two earth mounds form circular succulent beds on the left and right side of the front door. The symmetry brings balance and harmony to both female and male residents. Earth is also a supportive element for the west direction of the front garden.
The beds are made with white pebbles, outlined with river rocks and planted to resemble the Chinese coin, a symbol of wealth. There are 8 lotus echeverias representing the 8 directions planted in the circles.
Auspicious colors of the earth and water elements are used to promote the metal energies of the home’s west facing direction. Yellow coreopsis line the front fence. A variety of yellow, orange and brown gazanias are the main ground cover with gray blue dymondia as a border. Variegated aeonium and aloe are planted along the front of the fountain with yellow kangaroo paw flanking either side. Blue agave on the left and right of the fountain defines the front entry.
We reserved our Southern California’s Metropolitan Water District rebate in January and at $2/SF of turf removal, we should receive a rebate of about $8,000. There are landscape contractors who can apply for your rebate, do your turf removal, and create a simple xeriscape with no cost out of your pocket. Xeriscaping can lower water usage down to a quarter of what is required for regular landscapes. Since over half of our water use is for our lawns, xeriscaping will bring substantial water and financial savings. Imagine your monthly $100 water bill going down to $25.
There are rebates for multiple water conservation programs from appliances, toilets, turf removal, to sprinkler nozzles. The rebates must be reserved and are set to end June 30, 2015. Once your rebate reservation has been approved, you have 120 days to complete your project, pass inspection and receive your rebate check. For more information, please visit http://socalwatersmart.com.