{"id":84221,"date":"2009-03-06T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2009-03-06T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.sunset.com\/home-garden\/landscaping"},"modified":"2025-07-25T15:15:43","modified_gmt":"2025-07-25T22:15:43","slug":"home-garden-landscaping","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.sunset.com\/home-garden\/landscaping","title":{"rendered":"Landscaping"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n\n \n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Great garden design inspiration for creating your own outdoor oasis","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"landing-page.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"_should_modify_publish_date":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[43207,45],"tags":[],"layout":[67],"class_list":["post-84221","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-home-garden","category-landscaping","layout-article"],"acf":{"display_row_fields":"yes","page_subheadline":"Great garden design inspiration for creating your own outdoor oasis","display_row_1":"yes","stories_row_1_top":[{"ID":190169,"post_author":"99","post_date":"2025-07-10 03:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-07-10 10:00:00","post_content":"\n

When summer temperatures climb<\/a> across the West, the smartest way to cool down might be right in your own backyard. Whether you\u2019re working with a sprawling landscape or a compact patio<\/a>, thoughtful design can make your outdoor space feel up to 10 degrees cooler\u2014no misting systems or electric fans required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We turned to Shannon Porteous, owner and principal designer of Sow Home<\/a>, a Southern California-based landscape design studio known for crafting low-maintenance, Mediterranean-inspired spaces rooted in California native plants. Her design philosophy centers on creating welcoming, sustainable gardens that feel as good as they look\u2014helping homeowners turn everyday outdoor areas<\/a> into functional, year-round retreats. Here, she shares seven climate-wise strategies to keep your space breezy, tranquil, and effortlessly stylish\u2014even on the hottest days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Trees

Shannon Porteous\/@sow.home<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Layer Your Green Space on Multiple Levels<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One of the simplest ways to cool down your garden\u2014and elevate its visual appeal\u2014is by thinking beyond the ground plane. Layering vegetation on multiple levels mimics nature\u2019s own insulation system: Tall canopy trees provide shade, mid-level plantings soften reflected heat, and dense groundcovers<\/a> keep soil cool and moist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For those in the Western states looking to replicate this effect, Porteous recommends using climate-adapted native plants<\/a> suited to your region. Her go-to understory picks include Red Flowering Currant (Ribes sanguineum<\/em>), California Fescue (Festuca californica<\/em>), Yankee Point Ceanothus (Ceanothus thyrsiflorus <\/em>var. griseus \u2018Yankee Point\u2019<\/em>), and Hummingbird Sage (Salvia spathacea<\/em>). For vertical interest, she often turns to vining natives like Island Morning Glory (Calystegia macrostegia<\/em>), Pink Honeysuckle (Lonicera hispidula<\/em>), and California Grape (Vitis californica<\/em>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even in small patios or courtyards, Shannon encourages clients to \u201cthink vertical.\u201d That might mean adding trellises for climbing plants, using pots<\/a> atop hardscape to lift greenery into sightlines, or integrating functional accents like rain chains. \u201cVertical features really maximize your space and make the garden feel larger,\u201d she says\u2014and as a bonus, they provide essential shade and cooling along walls and fences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prioritize Shade on the South Side<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Not all shade is created equal\u2014especially in the heat-prone regions of the West. \u201cThe south-facing side of properties usually gets the most direct sun throughout the day,\u201d says Porteous. \u201cAdding sun-loving shade trees on this side of your garden can create shade where it\u2019s most impactful for cooling things down.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For maximum payoff with minimal upkeep, Porteous recommends evergreen native trees that thrive in the region and require less water once established. \u201cCoast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia<\/em>) and California Bay Laurel (Umbellularia californica<\/em>) are great options in Southern California,\u201d she says. \u201cThey\u2019re low-maintenance and offer excellent year-round shade.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Of course, selecting the right tree is about more than just canopy size. Porteous always considers how a garden is used before making her final picks. \u201cIt all depends on how much space you have and what kind of experience you want,\u201d she explains. \u201cIf space is limited and we want to check multiple boxes with one tree, we might choose something edible like citrus or avocado. On the other hand, if year-round shade isn\u2019t essential, we might go with a beautiful deciduous tree like Western Redbud (Cercis occidentalis<\/em>).\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Trees

Shannon Porteous\/@sow.home<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Mulch It Like You Mean It<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t underestimate the cooling power of a well-mulched garden. More than just a finishing touch, mulch<\/a> is a behind-the-scenes workhorse that can significantly reduce soil temperature while boosting overall garden health. \u201cMulch is amazing for so many reasons,\u201d says Porteous. \u201cFunctionally and ecologically, it helps suppress weeds, keep the soil cool, retain moisture, and reduce evaporation. Not only does it help with saving water, but it also supports overall soil health. I think it\u2019s a win-win!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In her designs, Porteous often blends function with a sense of place. While organic mulch is a staple for moisture retention and weed control, she also layers in natural elements that reflect the local landscape. \u201cHere in Southern California, I like to incorporate sandstone cobble or boulders\u2014materials you\u2019d find out on a hike nearby,\u201d she says. Cobble can serve as a natural edging, while larger stones might find their place in steps, retaining walls, or dry creek beds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For a more dynamic, Mediterranean-inspired look, Porteous often combines mulch with drought-tolerant groundcovers like Dymondia, Carex, or creeping thyme. \u201cWe use a combination of organic mulch with spreading plants, and also love mulch next to gravel paths,\u201d she explains. The balance depends on the garden\u2019s goals\u2014whether the priority is water retention<\/a>, visual softness, or defining distinct outdoor zones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Water

Jess Purple\/@wearemattandjess<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Add a Soothing Water Element<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Even a small water feature<\/a> can cool your garden and create a peaceful vibe. \u201cI love a water feature of any kind,\u201d says Porteous. \u201cThey invite you to slow down and attract birds and pollinators.\u201d For tight spaces, a rain chain replacing a downspout works beautifully. With more room, consider turning a boulder into a fountain, like at one of Porteous' projects, Casa Vista Hermosa. Limestone troughs, stone fountains, and simple ceramic bowls with recirculating pumps are other stylish, low-maintenance options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Porteous notes, \u201cRecirculating pumps prevent stagnation and algae, while the moving water draws wildlife.\u201d Placing features low to the ground or adding nearby perches makes them even more inviting. Clients often place water features near kitchen windows to enjoy the soothing sounds and watch birds while cooking. Whether you\u2019re inside or outside, water brings calm and connection\u2014even the family dog will love it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Invest in Stylish Shade Structures<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Shade structures have come a long way\u2014today\u2019s options blend sun protection with sleek design to fit any outdoor style. \u201cThere are so many great products on the market now,\u201d says Porteous. \u201cYou can customize umbrellas, shade sails, awnings, or pergolas to suit your home\u2019s look while keeping cool.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Choosing between a permanent pergola and movable umbrellas depends on your space, budget, and lifestyle. Pergolas create a defined outdoor room, perfect for dining or lounging where furniture stays put. Umbrellas, especially adjustable ones, offer flexibility for casual seating or poolside spots<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to materials, Porteous advises steering clear of cheap synthetics. \u201cPlastic products often don\u2019t hold up and need replacing,\u201d she says. \u201cNatural materials like stone and durable woods\u2014teak, for example\u2014are more of an investment but last longer and age beautifully with care.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Garden

Shannon Porteous\/@sow.home<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Design with Airflow in Mind<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Good garden design isn\u2019t just about what you plant\u2014it\u2019s also how you arrange it. \u201cAt the start, we space plants with their mature size in mind,\u201d explains Porteous. \u201cThat prevents overcrowding and ensures air can move freely through the garden.\u201d Plants with movement, like ornamental grasses, can amplify gentle breezes and add soothing rhythm. Regular pruning and removing dead foliage also help keep the space healthy and open to airflow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beyond plants, Porteous champions permeable hardscapes such as stepping stones spaced with softscape in between. \u201cThese features help keep water onsite and cool the soil,\u201d she says. Adding rain barrels<\/a> fits right in, storing water sustainably while supporting the garden\u2019s microclimate. Together, these subtle moves create a garden that feels fresher and more comfortable\u2014even on the hottest days.<\/p>\n","post_title":"How to Design a Backyard That Feels 10 Degrees Cooler","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"cooling-landscape-garden-design-ideas","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-07-11 10:07:45","post_modified_gmt":"2025-07-11 17:07:45","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.sunset.com\/?p=190169","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"stories_row_1_bottom":[{"ID":189567,"post_author":"99","post_date":"2025-06-19 03:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-06-19 10:00:00","post_content":"\n

Sure, summer gardens<\/a> are often designed to dazzle the eyes\u2014bursts of color, big blooms, and dramatic textures. But what about the scents? That one plant that stops you mid-step, or the breeze that carries a little floral something you can\u2019t quite name (but wish you could bottle). Fragrance<\/a> is the most under-appreciated garden layer, and in the hot, dry summers of the West, it\u2019s also one of the most rewarding. Whether it\u2019s a citrus tree blooming near the patio, lavender<\/a> spilling over a path, or night-blooming jasmine perfuming the air after sunset, scent invites us to slow down and breathe it all in. In this guide, we\u2019re celebrating the aromatic all-stars of the season, including native favorites, heat-lovers<\/a>, and unexpected picks like spicy basil and sacred datura, along with planting ideas and design tips for every region in the West.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

California: Mediterranean Magic<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Outdoor

Thomas J. Story<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

California summers are dry, hot, and long\u2014and that's exactly what makes this region a paradise for fragrant plants that thrive on sunshine and tough love. From native sages that smell like hiking trails<\/a> after a heatwave to citrus blossoms that float on the breeze, scent is everywhere if you know what to plant where<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fragrant Plants to Try:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n