Are You Thinking of Updating Your Yard?

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Did you know that according to California Association of REALTORS® (CAR) 94% of homeowners want to create a unique space for their yard? Most of which are turning to low-maintenance plants and shrubs that require little water and up-keep.

If you’re thinking about updating your yard, here are some things to take into consideration:

1. What type of shade or sun happens in your yard? Monitor your yard for a couple of days to make sure that you fully understand your yard’s sun and shade patterns throughout the day.
2. Location, location, location. Did you know that rats can jump from trees and climb on your roof and enter your attic? If tree branches are close enough to the home or roof line, they can jump – yes jump – to your home. Take extra precaution as to not plant trees too close to the roof line.
3. Do you have a pool? Make sure to pick trees, shrubs and plants that are best for the space. Trees with lots of foliage or plants that bloom regularly are probably not the best. In Orange County right now Bougainvillea is very popular, but the dead flowers can get stuck in pool filters and cause a lot of damage for your pool. Plants to consider for around the pool include:
   • Trees: podocarpus, palm, citrus and fruitless olive trees
   • Succulents: aloe, echeveria and even plumeria
   • Grasses: fescue or bamboo
   • Plants: hibiscus, bird of paradise, papyrus
4. Real or fake grass? There are pros and cons for both. Real grass can become patchy, die off from animal urine, and requires regular maintenance. Fake grass can be hot to touch in direct sun/high heat environments, so consider little feet playing on the grass and dogs that have to use it for the bathroom. Fake grass can also have an odor if pets use it to go to the bathroom and can be hard to clean.
5. Toxic plants? Yes, certain vegetation can be harmful for pets and children. When we moved into our home, our dogs had the freedom to roam their new backyard, but one of our dogs ended up very sick and in the hospital overnight from eating a poisonous plant we had in our yard, yet had no idea of its effects. Plants to avoid or use with caution:
   • Rhubarb
   • Wisteria
   • Lillies
   • Daffodil
   • Hydrangea
   • There are others, so please research further for a full list if you’re worried about pets and kids!
6. Trying to create curb appeal in the front yard?
   • If you have a homeowner’s association, make sure to stick within their parameters for planting to avoid fines.
   • Trim back trees or shrubs near windows or doors in order to prevent someone from breaking and entering.
   • Beds and boarders help to create the most distinct looks and outline a great yard.
   • Plants native to the environment will thrive the most.