Spring Planting Guide: California Natives & Drought-Tolerant Beauties

Spring Planting Guide: California Natives & Drought-Tolerant Beauties

Welcome Spring with the Right Plants

Spring is one of the best times to establish new plants in your garden, especially California natives and drought-tolerant varieties. As temperatures warm and the soil becomes more workable, your plants have the entire growing season ahead to develop strong root systems before summer heat arrives.

Ceanothus gloriosus Anchor Bay - California Lilac native groundcover

Why Plant in Spring?

Spring planting offers several advantages for gardeners:

  • Mild temperatures reduce transplant shock
  • Natural rainfall helps establish roots
  • Longer days promote healthy growth
  • Plants have time to acclimate before summer stress

Top Spring Picks for Your Garden

California Natives

Native plants are perfectly adapted to our climate and require minimal water once established. Spring is ideal for planting natives like ceanothus and manzanita. These beauties will reward you with vibrant blooms and attract beneficial pollinators to your garden.

Asclepias - California native milkweed for pollinators

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Drought-Tolerant Perennials

Perennials planted now will establish deep roots and return year after year. Consider adding salvia and yarrow to your spring garden. These hardy plants thrive in our Mediterranean climate and add color throughout the seasons.

Callistemon Little John - Bottlebrush with red blooms

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Perennials for Every Garden

Spring is perfect for establishing perennials that will fill in over the summer and return year after year. Browse our full selection of hardy, beautiful perennials that thrive in our climate.

Carex tumulicola - California native sedge grass

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Spring Planting Tips

Prepare your soil: Amend with compost to improve drainage and provide nutrients for new plants.

Water wisely: Even drought-tolerant plants need regular water during establishment. Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root development.

Mulch matters: Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around new plants to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Be patient: Remember the saying: "First year they sleep, second year they creep, third year they leap." Give your plants time to establish.

Ready to Get Started?

Browse our collections of California natives, drought-tolerant plants, and perennials to find the perfect plants for your spring garden. To help you get the best shipping rates available, we recommend ordering at least 3-4 plants per shipment.

Happy planting!