OKC offers free water smart landscaping class

Residents and business owners can learn how to create a vibrant and water-friendly landscape at their home or business.

Oklahoma City Utilities Department’s “Landscape Design for Water Conservation” workshop is planned from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday at Healthy Living and Fitness’ MAPS 3 Health and Wellness Center, 11501 N Rockwell Ave. The workshop is free.

Adam Sarmiento, owner of Eco Landscaping and vice president of the Oklahoma Native Plant Society, will show participants how to create beautiful and enticing landscapes while also reducing water use.

“There’s a misconception that water smart landscapes tend to be dull and colorless,” said Malarie Gotcher, Oklahoma City’s water conservation specialist. “But with the right plants and planting tips, most residents can create a vibrant and attractive landscape that not only has great curb appeal, but actually reduces water waste.”

During the workshop, participants will learn landscape design concepts like plant selection, soil health and proper watering techniques they can try in their own yard and gardens.

“We want to provide people with a guideline as to what works in Oklahoma’s tough growing conditions, and show them how to achieve a beautiful landscape or flower garden that is also water smart,” Gotcher said.

The landscape design workshop is one of a series of water-smart gardening and irrigation programs hosted by Oklahoma City.

Go to squeezeeverydrop.com for more watering and water conservation tips.