With more frequent news reports of a possible drought in Southern California, San Diego County officials have stepped up efforts to educate residents and business owners on ways to conserve water.
Highly-acclaimed local author Nan Sterman has been writing about ways to create magnificent gardens while preserving the finite natural resource. “Water-wise” is the term Sterman uses to describe plants that are drought-resistant.
Her latest book, “California Gardener’s Guide Volume II,” features approximately 200 plant entries which can seem a bit overwhelming to the novice gardener. But Sterman said that the book is aimed at the beginning to intermediate level gardener and emphasizes climate appropriate plantings.
Sterman will present an easy-to-follow seminar at the Encinitas Library on her top picks for drought-resistant, low-maintenance plants to create a beautiful garden from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 28.
“We’re very fortunate to have someone like Nan Sterman who’s knowledgeable on these topics and willing to share that expertise with the community,” Councilwoman Teresa Barth said. “Water conservation needs to be our new way of life.”
“Planting native species also has a secondary benefit,” Barth said. “They create a habitat for birds and bees that pollinate other plants which helps restore the natural cycle of the environment.”
The most typical reason gardeners are unsuccessful is because they attempt to create non-native environments according to Sterman. “People want to grow things from their home states,” she said. “It takes a lot to create the artificial environments from which they came.”
Sterman will also sign copies of her book and answer questions from residents interested in not only conserving water but creating extraordinary native-species gardens.
For more information, visit www.Plantsoup.com.
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