FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a sustainable landscape? 
    It is one that does not degrade the environment.  Energy and resources spent to maintain it are minimal, and no practices are used that harm humans or wildlife.
 
2. What are the major components of a sustainable landscape?
    a. Climate appropriate plants (not just drought-tolerant, but fog, wind, salt air, etc.)
    b. A water-conserving irrigation system such as drip or hand watering
    c. The use of organic mulch to impede water evaporation and add organic material to the soil as it breaks down.

3. What are the major benefits of a sustainable landscape? 
    Conserving water and saving money while protecting our planet.
 

4. What are the benefits to the environment?
    The reduction or elimination of fertilizers and pesticides which enter the soil and kill beneficial insects and other wildlife, and which also enter the ocean as runoff causing pollution.
 

5.  What can be done to make the most impact with the least effort?
    Reduce the lawn.  By converting at least ½ the lawn area into climate appropriate vegetation and permeable surfaces such as stepping stone pavers, water and maintenance reduction will be huge.  
 

6. I need help…how can I get started?
    Refer to the City’s new free Landscape Sustainability Audit Program.  A list of City-approved landscapers is available that can be contacted for a free at-home evaluation.  Contact Sona Kalapura the City’s Environmental Programs Manager at 310 802-5341 skalapura@citymb.info or go to the City’s website http://www.citymb.info   and click on “Going Green”.  Once there, click on “Free Environmental Programs and Energy Contest”.  
 
7. How can I get rid of the lawn affordably and safely? 
    The Smother Method works well.  If you don’t mind a browning lawn, turn off your sprinklers for a couple of weeks.  Then mow it.  Apply 2-3 layers of newspaper over the entire area to be smothered and water down a bit so it does not blow away.  Apply at least 6-7 inches of organic mulch over the newspaper.  Let set for 2-4 months depending on the weather – hot weather is best.  Mulch can be pushed aside in spots where new plants will be installed when the lawn is dead.
 

8. Where can I get organic mulch?
    The City of Manhattan Beach offers FREE tree trimming mulch to residents 24/7 at the City Yard located at 3621 Bell Avenue, north of Sand Dune Park just off Rosecrans.
 

9. I love this project and would love to be a sponsor.  How do I do it?

For sponsorship information, please contact Danny Milea at 310-433-6712 or DannyMilea@yahoo.com 

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