Low-Maintenance Ground Covers for a Dry, Unirrigated Strip in Zone 10 (Ventura County)

A narrow strip between driveways with no irrigation demands tough, drought-tolerant plants. California natives and Mediterranean-climate species are ideal.

Recommended Resources

• Cal-IPC Landscaping Guide – native, non-invasive ground covers for Southern California.
• San Diego Water Authority Xeriscape Brochure – low-water plant lists and design tips.

Planting Through Weed Block & Wood Chips

1. Pull back chips.
2. Cut an X in the fabric at each planting spot (spacing per label).
3. Plant through the slit; firm soil around roots.
4. Replace chips as mulch.

Plant 10 inches from edges if label says "10 inches apart"—the same spacing applies to borders.

Top Picks for Your Conditions

• Sedum spp. (e.g., 'Dragon's Blood', 'Angelina') – succulent, colorful, very low water.
• Dymondia margaretae – silver foliage, yellow flowers, tolerates foot traffic.
• Thymus serpyllum (creeping thyme) – fragrant, bee-friendly.
• Native Ceanothus ground covers – e.g., 'Yankee Point', 'Centennial'.

Avoid invasive species like ice plant (Carpobrotus) or periwinkle (Vinca major).