Lot size: 3,500 sq. ft. back garden, 60% native
Garden Age: Garden was installed in stages, beginning in 2016
Years on the Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour: New this year!
Showcase Feature
Leesa and Steve, longtime Tour-goers, recently retired, and newly minted Master Gardeners, were more than ready to transform their lawn into a garden. With $3,600 in rebates provided by the East Bay Municipal Utility District and Save Our Water, and design assistance and hardscape installation by Roxy Designs, their run-of-the-mill backyard has become a vibrant garden of natural delights. Now, edibles flourish in the sunny areas near the house. A fire pit and Adirondack chairs, the drilled rock fountain that splashes into the pond, and multiple seating areas invite you to take a seat and enjoy this tranquil space.
Other Garden Attractions
• Swales, berms, gravel paths and more were employed to create this “rain garden”. Retaining rainwater in the garden provides plants with access to water after a storm is over, and protects San Pablo Creek (which flows through the garden) from scouring.
• Stop by the RecycleSmart table and ask about composting.
Gardening for Wildlife
It’s all about the pollinators! Plants were selected for their value to bees, butterflies, and birds. Owls and hawks are seen above the garden, and the occasional fox is spotted in it.
Garden Talks
1:00 “How to make the change from lawn to garden: improve your soil, conserve water, garden for wildlife, provide food for your family, and have a beautiful garden!” by Leesa Evans
Art in the Garden
Artist Bonnie Bonner will sell Bug Hotels; beautiful and interesting hanging garden art made from lichen, seeds, bark, pine cones, oak galls, and other natural materials, as well as prints and cards.
