LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Did you know that much of California has a semi-arid climate which results in annual periods of little or no rainfall?

Couple this with the droughts since the 1970s and our “population explosion” we will continue to see a shortfall in our fresh water supply.

As individuals we can help solve this problem by using water wisely in whatever we do and avoid the of wastefulness of the past.

One of the many ways to conserve water is that of water management in our ornamental gardens.

Install simple inexpensive conserving irrigation systems, use soil conditioners and mulches to hold water where it is needed and reduce evaporation; choose plants that are well sited for our environmental conditions.

Lake County native plants are especially well-suited having developed protective devices, over the ages, against local pests, diseases and no summer watering. 

These plants will provide landscapes that have striking foliage and unlimited mixes of form and texture. 

Clear Lake Trowel & Trellis Garden Club invites you to join them to learn more about native flora and all phases of gardening. 

The club meets at noon on the third Tuesday of each month at the Scotts Valley Women's Club House 2298 Hendricks Road, Lakeport. A light lunch is served. 

The next meeting will be Sept. 16 and will feature a presentation by Judith Diggs of Bio Farms. She will speak on all aspects of growing organic vegetables. 

For information call club President Marva Brandt at 707-279-1625 or visit www.clttgc.org .

Jerry Shaul is native flora chairman for the Clear Lake Trowel & Trellis Garden Club.