 BEFORE |  AFTER |  BEFORE |
|---|---|---|
 AFTER |  Ceanothus (California lilac) with grass, Stipa gigantea |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  The design -- rather than a top down approach, I used a straight on drawing to better showcase how the plants would look in a terrace style design |
 Plant palette |  Plant palette |
Zero Maintenance Xeriscape
This rental property was being renovated and there was no caretaker to ensure plant watering and maintenance. The client removed the ivy and terraced the steep slope with retaining walls, a blank canvas for xeriscape plantings. Xeriscape plants can adapt to no supplemental water, usually after being established with some water for the first 2 years. They are virtually zero maintenance plants, often having a wild look, but many are adaptable to pruning/shaping if a more refined look is desired. I embrace the wild! Hence my business name...
This design showcases some of my favorite plants, for their bold shape, texture, and color, and of course their love of neglect. I love an independent plant. These plants were thriving even during the heat wave of 2021: Arctostaphylos (manzanita), Ceanothus (California lilac), Cistus (rock rose), Brachyglottis/Senecio greyi, Euphorbia rigida, Stipa gigantea (tall grass), California fuchsia, and yarrow 'salmon beauty'.
Thanks to Xera Plants Nursery for most of these plants -- they are the home for Xeriscape (and truly unique but well adapted) plants in Portland
LOCATION
North Tabor
GARDEN GOALS
- Replace invasive ivy slope with retaining walls
- Drought and heat tolerant with no supplemental water
- Low maintenance