Green practices sustain health, guard against fires, save money, increase home values, and create self-sufficiency.
If you have fruit trees with excess fruit that you can’t or don’t want to use, the TOT Picking Posse will stop by your home with your permission, pick the fruit, and leave the surplus for anyone in our community. Please contact Mary at 424-259-2407.
TOT-specific native plants are now being demonstrated in our Native Plant Gardens and we have documented more Native Plants in TOT, most of which grow wild. For more recommendations for our location, visit The California Native Plant Society website. See the Theodore Payne Foundation Plant Guides for how to garden in harmony with animals and insects.
Children’s educational coloring pages from Raptors Are The Solution (RATS).
Non-toxic insect DIY deterrents include cleaning with Simple Green, spreading cinnamon or peppermint oil, or using Orange Guard spray (available at Whole Foods). Vendors who do not use toxins are:
If your gardener uses eco-friendly alternatives, we will list their contact info here. When hiring a landscaper/gardener, please consider asking if they…
… protect air quality by using electric and/or hand powered equipment?
… use California native or non-invasive Mediterranean plants, and fire retardant varieties when possible?
… use compost for non-native plants to feed the soil?
… use mulch for native plants to feed the soil and suppress weeds?
… use non-toxic and humane pest management?
… install and/or maintain water irrigation systems, including zoning where needed?
… prune selectively and properly?Free mulch is available from the City of LA. Laid over soil surface, mulch discourages tweeds and evaporation. Organic rocks, pebbles, and composted wood chips can also be goodchoices, but avoid mulches that are combustible.
Free rain barrels, grass removal incentives, and water conservation tips are available from the West Basin Municipal Water District. Information on water conservation and the cash for grass program is available at Los Angeles County Waterworks District (serving TOT). See also Water-Wise Gardening, LA County Public Works.
