Californians know that our unpredictable climate makes water efficiency and conservation a way of life here. The start of the fall planting season is a great time to learn appropriate water-wise gardening habits, as efficient outdoor use remains the key to a reliable water future. The Fall 2018 Water-Wise Landscaping Workshop Series kicks off on Wednesday, September 12. The City of Napa is teaming up with the Napa County Resource Conservation District and the UC Master Gardeners to share expertise in drip irrigation, smart sprinkler scheduling, soil improvement, garden design, and climate-appropriate plant selection. For three consecutive Wednesdays evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Pelusi Building in Napa’s Kennedy Park, attendees will hear presentations, get questions answered, access free literature and water-saving tools, and possibly come home with a valuable door prize. Workshops are free, but please register in advance by calling (707) 257-9497, or emailing [email protected]. Workshop details below:
Smart Watering Strategies
Wednesday, September 12, 6:30-8:30 pm
After hearing seasonal tips on "taking control of your controller" to avoid lawn overwatering, watch Harmony Farm Supply staff solve the mysteries of drip irrigation, the most efficient water delivery system for most plants. Real-life drip applications will be discussed and system components will be displayed. All attendees will enjoy some hands-on practice.
Soils, Mulches, and More
Wednesday, September 19, 6:30-8:30 pm
Following a summary of the eight principles of water-wise landscaping, local Master Gardeners will thoroughly review our local soils and how to improve them with aeration, amendments, and mulch. The "sheet mulching" technique for lawn removal will be highlighted, along with ways to capture rainwater and design an effective rain garden. The landscape design concept of hydrozones will be introduced.
Choosing the Right Plants
Wednesday, September 26, 6:30-8:30 pm
Landscape architect Jennifer de Graaf will demonstrate that water-efficient is anything but boring. Colorful and beautiful tree, shrub, perennial, grass, vine, and groundcover species will be discussed, along with landscape design principles. Dozens of plants will be on hand for viewing, including natives from the Napa Valley Chapter of the California Native Plant Society. "Cash for Grass" rebates and local demonstration gardens will also be publicized.