Professional tips on planning and design of a beautiful yard that is low-maintenance, water efficient, cost-effective, and functional. I earned my Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Texas A&M in 2005 and have been working professionally in the industry for over 10 years. I have been involved in managing and designing a plethora of projects large and small, including commercial retail, street-scapes, and residential. Though the particular plants presented here are largely California natives, the tips on planting and irrigation can be applied pretty much anywhere.