As SoCal water shortages remain widespread this spring, the lush green lawns that made up the residential landscapes of the South Bay’s past continue to shrink as residents gradually transition to more sustainable options like river rock, succulents and sage. But residents of Torrance are proving there is nothing aesthetically “dry” about drought-tolerant gardens, and the city is taking notice.
Rock-filled swale captures rainwater, allowing it to percolate into the garden instead of running into storm drains and the ocean.
The plant palette at 120 Via Colusa, a Sustainable Landscape Beautification Award winner, uses California natives and low-water Mediterranean plants. Manzanita ground cover slows runoff on a steeply sloped lot.
Torrance rolled out its residential Landscape Beautification Award this year to celebrate the efforts of residents who maintain and enhance their homes and outdoor spaces. Also recognized in a Sustainable Landscape Beautification category are homes that exhibit exceptional pride of ownership through water conservation practices as part of their landscaping design. This includes the use of drought-tolerant or native plants, water-friendly irrigation systems and energy-efficient lighting.
“Through this category, we hope to spread the word about what our fellow citizens are doing to help the environment right in their own backyards,” said Gregg Lodan, neighborhood services manager, Community Development Department, City of Torrance. “In turn we hope to inspire others to make changes in their own spaces.”
Nine properties throughout the city’s six council districts were selected as award recipients. Thirteen properties were selected for honorable mention.
Examples of California natives at 120 Via Colusa include California Golden Poppies.
The highest-scoring properties had several common features. They used a variety of plants, ground cover and even hardscape, such as pavers, patio spaces or decorative rock, to create a visually pleasing environment. They also used drip irrigation to minimize water usage, incorporated lighting to showcase their properties at night, and planted foliage to attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bees.
The owner of 425 Via la Selva, one of the award winners, replaced 1,000 square feet of grass, trees and shrubs with drought-tolerant plants and structural interest.
Lodan says the program aligns with the city’s strategic plan goals of appearance, character and quality of the community, and stewardship of the environment. Winners receive an award certificate, a yard sign to display and a gift card to a local home improvement store. Torrance plans to launch a Commercial Beautification Awards program later this year. •
To learn more about the program, visit torranceca.gov/beautificationawards Residents throughout the South Bay, including Torrance, who convert their lawns to waterwise gardens, may be eligible for cash rebates from the water company serving their property. Anyone interested should contact their water agency for details. For more water conservation tips, visit southbaycities.org/water-conservation