Zach Williams, Secretary of the Ventura County Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation, transformed his Ventura backyard into a thriving Ocean Friendly Garden (OFG). This article shares a behind-the-scenes look into the different plants and features Zach used in his garden and highlights the benefits that these bring to our environment and to homeowners.
Zach's inspiration for his garden stemmed from a desire to create a space that nurtures local birds, insects, microorganisms, and animals. His vision was not just to cultivate a garden, but to establish a mini-ecosystem that:
To bring this vision to life, Zach collaborated with Natasha Elliott of Sweet Smiling Landscapes, a renowned expert in natural gardening. Natasha's Instagram, Sweet Smiling Landscapes, showcases the transformative power of sustainable landscaping.
Instead of choosing the typical non-native, high-water, and high-maintenance plants often seen in Southern California backyards—like agapanthus, a big green lawn, impatiens, petunias, hydrangeas, ficus trees, palm trees, or bamboo—Zach opted for native and climate-appropriate plants including:
Native plants offer numerous benefits:
Native plants like Buckwheat, White Sage, Purple Sage, and Mugwort are foundational species that support a variety of insects, birds, and mammals. Buckwheat, for instance, is a critical food source for native pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which in turn support the broader food web. White Sage and Purple Sage, with their fragrant foliage and flowers, offer nectar for hummingbirds and butterflies while also providing shelter and nesting materials for small mammals and birds.
Milkweed plays an especially important role as it is the primary host plant for the monarch butterfly, providing a necessary habitat for their larvae. Common Yarrow and Yerba Buena attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which help control pest populations naturally. The aromatic Pitcher Sage and Lavender, along with other herbs like Mint and Blue Blush Sage, offer rich nectar sources for pollinators and have additional properties that deter harmful insects, thus promoting a healthier ecosystem.
Fruit-bearing plants such as Avocado, Persimmon, Pink Lady Apple, Apricot, and Pomegranate trees support birds, squirrels, and other wildlife by offering fruits and seeds, which function as staple food sources, especially in urban and suburban areas where natural resources can be scarce. Moreover, the dense foliage of these trees provides nesting sites and shelter for numerous bird species.
Herbs like Common and French Thyme, Oregano, Lemon Balm, and Wild Tarragon serve as habitat and food for insects. Coyote Mint and Chives add to the diversity of flowering plants that sustain pollinators. Aloe Vera and Fox Tail Agave, while often considered ornamental, offer hydration and nutrition for many desert-dwelling species, aiding them in surviving the arid conditions of Southern California.
Overall, the integration of these plants into the Southern California ecosystem fosters biodiversity, promotes stability and resilience in local wildlife populations, and contributes to the overall health of the environment by supporting a complex web of life.
An integral part of Zach's garden design involves the use of tree stumps. These stumps are not only visually appealing but also serve a practical purpose by helping to retain moisture in the soil. As they decompose, they slowly release water and nutrients, creating a natural reservoir that supports surrounding plants. This method reduces the need for frequent watering, making it an effective way to conserve water while maintaining a healthy garden.
Zach also employs composting methods to enrich the soil naturally. By recycling kitchen scraps, garden waste, and other organic materials, he creates a nutrient-rich compost that boosts soil health and promotes robust plant growth. This practice not only reduces waste but also enhances the soil's ability to retain moisture, further minimizing the need for additional irrigation. The use of compost eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers, making Zach's garden more environmentally friendly.
Zach is committed to avoiding pesticides, choosing instead to rely on natural pest control methods. He encourages beneficial insects, like ladybugs and predatory wasps, to thrive in his garden, keeping harmful pests in check. This organic approach ensures a safe and healthy environment for both plants and wildlife, fostering a balanced ecosystem. By integrating these sustainable practices, Zach's garden thrives in harmony with the local climate, demonstrating a model of environmentally responsible landscaping.
Interested in having an ocean friendly garden like Zach’s? To ensure your garden is Ocean Friendly, it must meet specific criteria that promote sustainability and environmental health. Here's what you need to consider:
Zach's garden is a shining example of how individual efforts can contribute to environmental sustainability. By adopting Ocean Friendly Gardening practices, you too can create a garden that is not only beautiful but also beneficial to the environment.
Interested in transforming your backyard or commercial landscape into a haven for local wildlife, conserving precious water, and reducing pollution? Check out the resources available on Surfrider HQ’s Ocean Friendly Garden website as well as resources on our Ventura County chapter’s Ocean Friendly Garden webpage.