Yards have several microclimates.
Make note of the sunny and dry, and shaded and moist areas of your landscape. Then find plants that thrive in each microclimate and group them together. Plants that are native or have adapted to the Pacific Northwest climate can withstand the cool, wet winters and warm, sunny summers - and they need less water and maintenance than other plants. To reap the benefits low water use plants, start by evaluating your yard conditions before you go to your nursery or landscape professional. Your Yard Conditions Observe your yard throughout the morning, afternoon and early evening to determine which areas get full sun, part sun or constant shade.