Planting Native Trees to Conserve Water

We used to have gardeners once upon a time. When we figured out their main role was to blow away the leaves we decided we could handle that ourselves. Then we realized the leaves were the perfect mulch and the garden would require less water, so now we leave the leaves where they fall. Why didn’t we think of that earlier?

The secret of course is to have trees in the first place. If you want to get one, please buy a native tree, not another Jacaranda, Podocarpus or Crape Myrtle. I realize that oak trees can grow pretty big, but with the passing of the old Valley Oaks (Quercus lobata), they aren’t being replaced and exotics are taking over. Valley oaks are deciduous so, if you prefer an evergreen, try a Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia). If oak root fungus is a problem for you - it’s throughout Encino - then try a California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa). Any of the local nurseries will gladly order these trees for you.

Perhaps you'd prefer one for free? Get in touch with LA City's Million Trees LA or, better still, because their website is annoying, call them at (323) 664-9196 and ask them if they are still offering residents free trees (these things change all the time).

I read once that Encino is only one of three suburbs in greater LA (with Sherman Oaks being another) with enough tree canopy. LA only has 21% tree canopy compared to the national average of 27% according to LADWP.

The photo shows leaves of a Valley Oak.