FAQ
Q: What is the best way to reach you?
A: Email hello@mothernatives.com and you’ll receive a response within 1-3 days. It’s the easiest form of communication at this time.
Q: How long do your design consultations take?
A: The appointments range from 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the level of detail the client would like to discuss.
Q: Is there anything I should do to prepare for the consultation?
A: We’ll cover everything during the meeting but it is helpful to think of styles you like, how you want to feel in the space, and if there are any areas you want to designate for something specific (picnic bench, bird bath, storage shed, etc).
Q: Could you walk me through the planting process?
A: I found an excellent step-by-step guide (via the Ojai Valley Land Conservatory) for beginners that includes a ton of photos. Step #9 covers watering in drought years and how to go about irrigating your new plants. This guide also talks about learning to understand your plants’ normal behaviors (i.e. dormancy, signs of stress, seasonal pruning needs, etc). Here is a shorter, more straight to the point planting guide from Las Pilitas Nursery.
Q: What is the proper way to water a new native plant?
A: Once you have dug a hole that is significantly larger than the plant’s nursery pot, fill the hole with water and let it completely soak into the soil. Plant and generously soak again. Depending on the season, your plant may not need to be watered again for several days or weeks. Avoid letting the newly planted root ball dry out during the first 3 months while the plant is getting established. Check out this handy watering guide from CNPS. If you prefer video tutorials, this video from Tree of Life Nursery is an excellent guide for gauging how much water your new plant requires while getting established.
Q: How much water can I save by planting a natural garden?
A: 70-90%. Not only do these landscapes require significantly less water to thrive but with less run-off, pesticide use, and fertilizing, it reduces the amount of pollution in our lakes, rivers, and ocean.
Q: When is the best time to plant natives?
A: Late fall through early spring but late fall is the absolute best. If you can, try to avoid planting in summer unless it’s in a shady spot or you can easily create a shade structure around the plant to minimize stress.