I am super happy to be a sponsor of the 2026 CNPS Native Garden Tour!
Have you thought about ditching your lawn for a more waterwise garden? If you’re looking for inspiration, come check out this year’s California Native Plant Society (CNPS) San Diego Native Garden Tour.
Why Native Plants?
Here are some reasons I love native plant gardening, and I want more native gardens in my community:
- Native plants serve wildlife better than non-native plants. Our birds and native bees have evolved to prefer native plants over others. With a diverse garden, you can have flowers all year long.
- Waterwise gardens save $ on water. Native plants have evolved to thrive with very little supplemental irrigation. You can have an evergreen, flower-filled garden without needing much water.
- Native gardens require little maintenance. No weekly mow-and-blow service needed. I can go months without maintaining my garden.
- Native plants don’t need fertilizers or pesticides. With the exception of Argentine ant infestations, you can skip adding extra chemicals to your living space. Insects and native plants have evolved to co-exist.
- Protect your home from wildfire. When properly hydrated, native plants can serve as a buffer from wildfires. Read more about how native plants can provide wildfire protection.
As a real estate broker, I love how low-maintenance, waterwise gardens with natives can improve curb appeal, which can increase your property’s value.
Mark Your Calendar
When: Saturday & Sunday, April 11 & 12, from 9 am – 4 pm
Where: City of San Diego private gardens south of I-8 and west of SR-125
The tour includes 34 private gardens and 5 public gardens. Southern gardens are open Saturday, April 11; Northern gardens are open Sunday, April 12.
This year’s theme is “Where Native Plants Thrive, We Thrive.” Native gardens help to create a space with abundant wildlife, pets enjoying safe outdoor spaces, and people benefiting from living, vibrant gardens that support both nature and well-being.
Some gardens are newer, while others were established over 10 years ago. You’ll be able to see how native gardens develop and change over time.
Get Your Tickets
Tickets on sale now · $45 for adults, everyone under 18 FREE
Access tickets for $15 are available on a limited basis, for those who couldn’t otherwise attend. Email gardentour@cnpssd.org for a discount code.
Every ticket includes a tour booklet that will be mailed to you in March. This serves as your access pass for both days. People who have purchased tickets after March 9th will be able to pick up their booklets at the March 17th CNPS San Diego chapter meeting, or Will Call gardens during the tour.
Tour Volunteers Needed
If you would like to get involved with the Tour, consider volunteering as a Garden Tour docent. No experience needed, and a it’s a great way to make friends and learn more about native gardening.
Volunteers received complimentary admission to the Garden Tour.
For More Information
For more tour details, go to: cnpssd.org/2026-garden-tour
Learn More About Native Plants – Join Us!
Support native plants as a member of the San Diego Chapter of the California Native Plant Society. It’s a great resource for gardening tips and upcoming events.
Want to replace your lawn with native plants? If you live in Southern California, you can receive money to do it. The Metropolitan Water District will pay you to remove your lawn! Through their Landscape Transformation Program, you can receive a rebate to remove existing turf grass, and install a waterwise landscape. Read my article about turf replacement programs in Southern California.
