How to Landscape a Southern California Garden

Dig 10 6-inch holes within your landscape and collect 1/2 cup of soil from the bottom of each hole. Mix the soil in a bucket and pour 1/2 cup into a container to mail to your local cooperative extension office. The extension office will mail back a soil analysis that provides information about your soil's pH range, fertilizer recommendations and soil amendment suggestions. It is essential to add nutrients to your lawn, such as compost, that will help retain soil moisture.

Draw a diagram of the yard and make a list of potential flowers that can grow within your USDA plant hardiness zones 8 to 11.

Group flowers based on their watering needs. It is best to use native flowers that have evolved in the region and can thrive in the soil and climate. Much of southern California mimics Mediterranean climates, which means the region experiences dry summers and rainy winters. Numerous tropical plants cannot survive the dry weather; gardeners wind up having to constantly water their plants. Pick native plants such as California lilac, baby blue eyes, California poppies, godetia and broadleaf sedem.

Grow shrubbery and trees on hillsides to aid in erosion. Drought-resistant trees and shrubs are key when landscaping around the home. According to the United States Fire Administration, the most fire- and drought-resistant plants should be planted within 3 feet around your home. Other trees and shrubs should be thinned out within 30 feet around the home. Use plants such as compact strawberry bushes, dwarf bottlebrush, flamingo ash-leaved maple and Russian sage.

Plant fruit trees to take advantage of the temperate climate. Popular fruit trees include apple, mango, avocado, fig, persimmon and kumquat.