Landscape resources

Water Wise home.jpg

Converting your yard to a drought-tolerant landscape is one of the most effective ways to save water and enhance your home.

You may also qualify for rebates when you remove turf or install subsurface drip irrigation.

Use the resources below to plan your project and maintain your landscape while saving time, money and water.

Call DigAlert before you start

Buried utilities can exist just about anywhere on your property, so it’s important to contact DigAlert before beginning any landscape project.

DigAlert helps prevent damage to underground utilities and avoid service interruptions:

This free service is required by law anytime you dig.

Free classes to help you plan

The Water Replenishment District’s Eco Gardener program offers free workshops and resources to help you design a water-efficient landscape.

Topics include:

  • Edible gardening
  • Irrigation basics
  • Drought-tolerant plants
  • Sustainable landscape design

Classes are available on demand or as live webinars with instructors who can answer questions.

Learn more about the Eco Gardener program.

Questions? Contact mserrano@wrd.org or call 562-275-4234.

Drip irrigation information

Subsurface irrigation places drip lines about six inches underground, delivering water directly to plant roots while reducing runoff and evaporation.

This method can reduce landscape watering needs by up to 25% and works well for grass, shrubs and groundcover.

Grasscycling for a healthier lawn

Grasscycling (mulch mowing) is a simple way to save water, reduce waste and improve lawn health.

Instead of collecting clippings, let them fall back onto the lawn where they break down and return nutrients to the soil.

Benefits include reduced watering needs, fewer weeds and less fertilizer use.

How to do it

  • Keep mower blades sharp and mow regularly
  • Do not cut more than one-third of each blade of grass
  • Mow when grass is dry to prevent clumping
  • Leave grass slightly longer in summer to reduce stress
  • Sweep clippings off sidewalks and hard surfaces

Design ideas and examples

Watch this CityTV video on water-wise gardening and design ideas.

This video includes captions. If you need assistance accessing this content or would like additional information, contact ADACoordinator@lakewoodca.gov.

These approaches highlight practical and cost-effective ways to create attractive, water-efficient landscapes.

You can also explore ideas from neighboring agencies such as the Long Beach Water Department to help guide your design.

Water-wise rebates

If you are planning to remove turf or upgrade your irrigation system, rebate programs may be available to help offset costs.

Visit the Water Wise Rebates page for current program details, eligibility requirements and application information.

Metropolitan Water District rebates

Rebates may be available for turf removal through regional programs. Visit the Be Water Wise website for details.

Free classes are also available to help you plan your project. View available classes.

Lakewood water customers may also qualify for City rebate programs, subject to funding availability and eligibility requirements.

Some links on this page go to external websites. If you need assistance accessing information, contact ADACoordinator@lakewoodca.gov.