Ground covers come in a variety of textures and colors, many with beautiful blooms. Water gardens introduce sound and texture into the landscape and attract wildlife. Traditionally, trees and shrubs have been chosen according to characteristics such as seasonal bloom intensity, bloom duration or fall leaf color. Such landscapes incorporate plantings of native species-those that have succeeded without human help in the Bay region for thousands of years. Natives require little in the way of water, fertilizers or pesticides to thrive and offer a more natural look.
Fruit trees provide dramatic early blossoms and a bounty of delicious, fresh fruit at harvest.
Berry bushes have the same benefits while providing wildlife with needed cover and food. You may wish to avoid peaches, apples and pears, because they require high maintenance and offer little shade. Vegetable gardens offer the purity and satisfaction of home-grown food while teaching about plant development from seed. Experiment with different varieties of seed and starter plants. The humus produced as the cover crop decays will improve the soil's structure and enhance its ability to retain water.