Here in Southern California, we are very conscious of our use of space and water. Having a yard to call your very own is a blessing in California because that’s where we spend most of our time in the summer. However, we have to think differently when landscaping our yards because of our hot and dry climate. Instead of adding more greenery to your yard, consider adding hardscapes and other low-maintenance landscaping ideas to your lawn care plan. Take a look at the list below to help get your creative juices flowing.
Add An Outdoor Heater to Your Southern California Landscape
People outside of California think we are crazy, but the nights in Southern California can get quite chilly. In order to be able to enjoy your outdoor spaces fully, you need to incorporate some sort of heating element. Propane patio heaters are a great way to warm up on those chilly nights and extend your outdoor living spaces. Propane heaters come in many shapes and sizes to fit any budget.
Provide Shade
If you’ve lived in Southern California long, you know that heat can take its toll on people and your yard. Palm trees sure are beautiful, but they provide very little in the way of shade. There are many native trees to our area that you can plant to provide shade. Adding some shade to the backyard is essential if you plan on enjoying your outdoor spaces during the daylight hours. Pergolas are a popular feature now, and they are easy to install. You can decorate them by encouraging vines to climb up or string some lights around them to provide a relaxing atmosphere.
Add A Fire Pit to Your Lawn Care Plan
Another heating element you can add to your backyard patio is a fire pit. You could go rustic and build an old-fashioned fire pit, or you could get a sleek new propane fireplace. Adding type of fire feature can increase your property value and entice interested buyers. No matter what kind of heating feature you choose, you and your guests will surely enjoy spending more time outside any time of the year.
Build An Outdoor Kitchen
If you are entertaining outside you, want to be outside with your guests while you are cooking too. This can easily be solved with an outdoor barbecue or grill, but why not step things up. There are many designs you can do to create the perfect outdoor cooking area. You can add a covered area, a bar for drinks, or even a pizza oven to wow your friends.
Light Things Up With Outdoor Lighting
You can’t spend too long outdoors in the evening without lights. There are a variety of options when it comes to choosing outdoor lighting.
Security Lights
Security lights not only help you see where you are going when you come home late, but they also deter wannabe criminals. 
String Lights
String lights are a cheap and easy way to add interest to your deck or patio.
Lanterns
Lanterns are great because they can be placed anywhere and moved. They come in a variety of options, such as eclectic or gas.
Pathway Lights
Pathway lighting highlights your walkways and makes it easier to see where you’re going. Pathway lights can either be hard-wired or solar-powered. Whatever you choose, they will increase your yard and patio’s curb appeal and attractiveness.
Incorporate Native Plants
We have talked before about how it is better to decorate your yard with plants native to Southern California instead of tropical plants and plants that are not native such as the Mexican fan palms. Native plants use less water, fertilizer and they are hardier against pests and diseases. The best part about adding native plants to your lawn care plan is that they benefit our ecosystem by providing food or homes to other native species.
Call The Professionals at Lawnscape Systems For All Your Lawn Care Needs
Lawnscape Systems has over 25 years of experience providing commercial and residential lawn care services to the people of Southern California. Our experienced technicians are trained and licensed to fertilize and apply insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides to treat stubborn weeds on commercial and residential lawns. Learn now by connecting with us online or giving us a call at (714) 909-1836.
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