As summer returns to California’s Central Valley, many homeowners are reevaluating their landscape design to better manage heat and water scarcity. With the increasing severity of drought conditions and water usage restrictions, creating a landscape that is both beautiful and sustainable has become more important than ever.
At Terra Landscape Collections, we’ve developed four distinct landscape themes—The Olive, The Agave, The Sage, and The Willow—that are thoughtfully crafted to work with the Central Valley’s climate and soil conditions. Each collection presents a different design vision, but all prioritize drought-conscious planning and long-term water efficiency.
Summer is the ideal time to prepare your outdoor space. Here’s how to take advantage of the season and create a landscape that thrives through dry weather.
Why It Matters Now
The hotter months push landscapes to their limits. Without preparation, yards can become costly to maintain, suffer from poor plant health, and consume unnecessary water. Smart homeowners are choosing to plan ahead by making changes that reduce water demand and support soil health.
Key steps to take:
- Evaluate your irrigation system for efficiency and leaks
- Replace water-heavy plants with native or drought-tolerant varieties
- Add mulch to retain soil moisture and prevent evaporation
- Choose a landscaping style that complements your region’s climate
Terra Landscape Collections: Built for Water Efficiency
Each Terra Collection is tailored to offer a unique design experience while remaining mindful of California’s dry conditions.
The Olive Collection offers a Mediterranean-inspired landscape that blends olive trees, rosemary, lavender, and crushed rock. These plants thrive with minimal water and bring a timeless, elegant feel to your yard. Gravel pathways and terra cotta features complete the look while helping with drainage and heat management.
The Agave Collection reflects a modern desert aesthetic. Sculptural plants like agave, yucca, and cactus paired with decomposed granite and metal edging result in a bold yet low-maintenance yard. This theme is perfect for full sun exposure and virtually eliminates the need for frequent watering.
The Sage Collection brings the warmth of traditional California to your home. With native plants like California poppy, deer grass, and manzanita, this theme promotes biodiversity and celebrates the Central Valley’s natural charm. It’s also highly effective for pollinator support and long-term water savings.
The Willow Collection draws on coastal themes to create a soft, calming atmosphere. Plants like lamb’s ear, blue fescue, and sedum work well with permeable pavers and light gravel to reflect sunlight and reduce heat retention. It’s ideal for homeowners who want a peaceful, cool-toned garden that doesn’t sacrifice sustainability.
Action Steps for Summer Landscape Preparation
- Schedule a landscape design consultation. This helps you evaluate your space and prioritize water-saving improvements.
- Use the BuildView tool. Our online configurator allows you to explore the Terra Collections in real time and see how they look applied to your project.
- Mulch and soil health. Apply fresh mulch and compost to keep the soil insulated and nutrient-rich.
- Irrigation audit. Set up timers or smart irrigation systems to avoid overwatering and catch leaks early.
- Plant selection. Avoid installing thirsty plants this season. Opt for those featured in your chosen collection, all of which are selected for drought resilience.
You Can Have Both Beauty and Sustainability
With thoughtful preparation and the right guidance, your landscape can flourish without putting a strain on the water supply. The Terra Landscape Collections allow you to choose a theme that fits your personality and property while helping you stay environmentally responsible.
This summer, take the first step toward a smarter, more sustainable outdoor space. Explore the collections, visualize your project, and design with confidence working with Terra.