Hotlinks:

Gallery: Patios

Add
Patio and Pillows
Western Sword Fern, Alaska Fern
Guardsman Flax
Western Sword Fern, Alaska Fern

Common name:Western Sword Fern, Alaska Fern
Botanical name:Polystichum munitum

This Fern produces upright fronds, reaching 4'-5' tall in moist, cool forests in Northern California. This size is usually lower, especially without summer watering. It is great in containers or dry shade landscapes. This species is especially useful to give the illusion of lush, moist gardens where little water is actually being used. It should receive part shade to dense shade. -Monterey Bay Nursery

Guardsman Flax

Common name:Guardsman Flax
Botanical name:Phormium 'Guardsman'

Phormium 'Guardsman' is an evergreen perennial. Big, dramatic plant composed of many swordlike, stiffly vertical leaves in a fan pattern. Flowers stems reach high above leaves, bearing clusters of 1-2 in. blossoms in dull red to yellow.

Designer: Peggy Hinman

Patio and Pillows
Image: 18 of 21

Photographer: GardenSoft

Soils and Compost:

Maintain a two to four inch layer of mulch on the soil surface to reduce weeds, infiltrate rain water, and reduce compaction.

Water-Saving Tip:

An easy water-wise improvement in lawn areas is to change high output spray sprinkler nozzles to low-flow rotators.

You'll have less runoff and be less likely to apply more water than is needed.

Integrated Pest Management:

Drip and other smart irrigation delivers water directly to roots, allowing no excess water for weeds.