When you rip out the lawn you make room for a lush, drought-tolerant paradise
This 1,200-square-foot front garden in Brentwood is alive with birds, butterflies and bees thanks to the milkweed, lilac verbena, monkeyflower and buckwheat that were planted to attract wildlife. Begun in May 2008, it proves what you can do when you ditch the grass.
(Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)Andrew Russell’s native front yard in Brentwood is a popular example of what a lush, lively native garden can be. Take a closer look:
Homeowner Andrew Russell worked closely together with landscape designer Shayne Naudi. She designed the space as a comfortable oasis for the homeowners and as a habitat for birds and butterflies.
(Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)Russell’s garden was started even early by his late wife, Kathy, who studied native plants before the transformation began.
(Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)White ceanothus snow flurry adds shade inside the enclosed small front yard.
(Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)Dudleya cymosa, a kind of succulent, adds inviting detail.
(Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)Verbena lilacina ‘De La Mina’ spills out of a pot -- and adds color.
(Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)Soft Santa Barbara daisies bloom in the cottage-like garden.
(Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)