Palos Verdes, Torrance / South Bay Guide to Saving Water With Smart Landscaping: Turf, Gravel & Native Plants
Water bills are creeping up and summer heat’s rising across the South Bay. If you’re in Torrance, Palos Verdes, or nearby cities like San Pedro, Redondo Beach, Long Beach, or Hawthorne, you’re probably already feeling it — and your yard is too.
But with the right materials and a smart approach, you can keep your outdoor space beautiful and lower your water bill. From artificial turf to gravel, bark, and California native plants, these upgrades are built for dry weather and high water costs.
Artificial Turf: A Green Lawn With No Water Waste
Tired of fighting dead patches and high water usage? Artificial turf stays green year-round, requires almost no upkeep, and pays off fast — especially in Torrance, San Pedro, and Redondo Beach, where lawn maintenance gets expensive in the heat.
Why Homeowners Choose Turf:
No watering, mowing, or fertilizer
Pet- and kid-friendly
Low-maintenance and long-lasting
Always looks clean and green
Some cities even offer rebates for turf and drought-tolerant upgrades, which can help offset the upfront investment.
Bark and Gravel: Affordable Ground Covers That Last
Bark mulch and decorative gravel are low-maintenance alternatives that not only help retain moisture but also give your yard a modern, clean look. These are especially popular in hot zones like Long Beach, Hawthorne, and Huntington Beach.
Why they work:
Help soil stay cool and moist
Reduce weed growth
Improve drainage and erosion control
Easy to update or refresh
Mix gravel with stepping stones or surround your planters with bark mulch for texture without water waste.
Native Plants: Built for the South Bay Climate
California native plants are made for dry summers and coastal soils. They require little to no watering once established — perfect for yards in Palos Verdes, San Pedro, and inland neighborhoods like Hawthorne or North Torrance.
Some great native picks:
California Buckwheat
Cleveland Sage
Manzanita
Toyon
Deer Grass
Save Water, Cut Costs, and Keep Your Yard Looking Good
Depending on your setup, upgrading your landscaping can help you save 30–60% on your monthly water bill — especially in the hotter months. These changes also reduce yard work and improve your home’s curb appeal.
Bonus: Some improvements qualify for SoCal Water$mart rebates if you act soon.
We Make It Easy to Start — Free Quotes Available
Jonakee Landscaping serves homeowners across the South Bay — including Palos Verdes, Torrance, San Pedro, Redondo Beach, Long Beach, Hawthorne, and Huntington Beach.
