I would advise you to spend practically NO money on new lawns or shrubs at this point in time.

We are looking at absolutely draconian water cutbacks this summer and watering of landscaping is almost certain to be high on the list of restricted activities.

http://www.voiceofsandiego.org/articles/2008/09/26/news/01restrictions092608.txt

It might be a great time to buy a property in neeed of landscaping (use it as a bargaining chip) but once purchased, I would drag my feet for a year before investing in new landscaping just to see what happens with the water situation.

Also – we had a large lot for awhile (about 1/2 acre) and monthly gardener costs were $250 and up. Food for thought.

I would advise you to spend practically NO money on new lawns or shrubs at this point in time.

We are looking at absolutely draconian water cutbacks this summer and watering of landscaping is almost certain to be high on the list of restricted activities.

http://www.voiceofsandiego.org/articles/2008/09/26/news/01restrictions092608.txt

It might be a great time to buy a property in neeed of landscaping (use it as a bargaining chip) but once purchased, I would drag my feet for a year before investing in new landscaping just to see what happens with the water situation.

Also – we had a large lot for awhile (about 1/2 acre) and monthly gardener costs were $250 and up. Food for thought.

I would advise you to spend practically NO money on new lawns or shrubs at this point in time.

We are looking at absolutely draconian water cutbacks this summer and watering of landscaping is almost certain to be high on the list of restricted activities.

http://www.voiceofsandiego.org/articles/2008/09/26/news/01restrictions092608.txt

It might be a great time to buy a property in neeed of landscaping (use it as a bargaining chip) but once purchased, I would drag my feet for a year before investing in new landscaping just to see what happens with the water situation.

Also – we had a large lot for awhile (about 1/2 acre) and monthly gardener costs were $250 and up. Food for thought.

Had the water audit few months back and guy said to take out part of lawn cause water rates will go up every year. Avg Water bill is more than electric/gas bill and we do use a little heat/AC!!

Had the water audit few months back and guy said to take out part of lawn cause water rates will go up every year. Avg Water bill is more than electric/gas bill and we do use a little heat/AC!!

Find a landscape designer who has worked in palm springs/palm desert or has experience with xeriscape. On a recent trip to that area, I saw some amazingly beautiful yards that require almost no water or maintenance. Even strict hoa’s are allowing full lawn removal if they see and like the plans, I’m contemplating it myself. A few homes just did it in my tract and it looks awesome. Were not talking white rock gardens with red scalloped brick borders, low water landscaping can be the envy of the neighborhood if done well.

Find a landscape designer who has worked in palm springs/palm desert or has experience with xeriscape. On a recent trip to that area, I saw some amazingly beautiful yards that require almost no water or maintenance. Even strict hoa’s are allowing full lawn removal if they see and like the plans, I’m contemplating it myself. A few homes just did it in my tract and it looks awesome. Were not talking white rock gardens with red scalloped brick borders, low water landscaping can be the envy of the neighborhood if done well.