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StumbleUponShrubs and perennials
When selecting shrubs and perennials for a garden, keep the following in mind:
What role will the plants play?
- windbreak
- hedge or screen
- feature plant
- seasonal color
- low border
How much space will the mature plant fill?
Measure your available space. Choose a plant whose mature size will not require constant pruning to keep it within that space.
What irrigation is available and what else is watered on this valve?
Match plants with similar watering requirements for the health of the plants and to conserve water. Many landscape plants' general water use can be found here in Part 2 starting on p. 51: PLANT WATER USE GUIDE
Is this plant suitable to my climate and my site?
Look for site conditions such as full sun, part sun or shade; level or sloped ground; heavy clay or well-drained sandy loam soil. Check the recommended references below to see if your desired plant is recommended for your site and climate zone; San Joaquin County is in USDA zone 9 and Sunset Climate Zone 14.
The resources and links below will help in choosing, planting, and maintaining the best possible plants for your SUSTAINABLE gardens and landscapes. Several of the book resources contain lists of plants for specific categories like hedges, shade plants, or plants with colored foliage.
FREE DOWNLOADS
Shrub planting instructions
Landscape Plants- fertilizing and watering
Shrubs for serpentine soil
Lavenders for landscapes
Powdery mildew resistant Crape Myrtles
Roses - culture and weed control
Salt tolerant landscape plant lists
Benefits of Mulch
RECOMMENDED REFERENCES
- Sunset Western Garden Book
- Plants and Landscapes for Summer-dry Climates (EBMUD)
- California Gardener's Guide; Vols. 1 & 2
- Landscape Plants for California Gardens
USEFUL WEBSITES
UC Davis Arboretum All-Stars
Plants for low water-use, low-maintenance, and pest and disease resistance. Also has planting plans for theme gardens.
Lodi's Sustainable Gardening Guide
Stockton's Water-Wise Gardening Guide
Click on plants and garden galleries for regionally appropriate plants