New landscaping with CNP

[Anonymous]

We are building a 'production' home in the Natomas area. The selling points were proximity to husband's office and the SMUD/Beazer help with solar roof.We absolutely refuse to have a 'yard', despite the risk of being the neighborhood pariahs; being new to CA I am clueless about what to plant in the area. Also, we have two very active Shiba Inus who truly love digging and exploring under brush. I'm willing to accomodate them in the plan. To a point, of course.The front yard is of course tiny, and on a gradual slope.I'm thinking grasses there. We'd like to do a few non-shedding evegreens in the back,which is rather large, and hope the dogs will help us excavate for a small pond.Any suggestions appreciated - especially local purveyors. I should mention that we have little experience, but are willing to learn!Thanks,Megan E.</p>

[Anonymous]

Megan -

Bravo for you in your rejection of the sterile, boring suburban yard!

Your best bets are to 1 join the Sacramento Valley Chapter of CNPS good source of information of local plant suppliers, landscapers, etc., and do some Net surfing, looking for landscape designers in your area who use native plants. Somewhere recently, I say an article on landscaping with dogs in mind. I think it might have been in Horticulture magazine. I'm sure those ideas can be adapted for a native landscape.

The new landscape won't happen all at once - now may be a good time for planning and land-configuring. Probably, parts of the landscape will take shape, while other parts are in a holding pattern, covered with mulch to prevent weeds and erosion. A great landscape is worth waiting for, so don't loose faith! Remember to take befre and after photos, too.

Cheers,

Lori</p>