The Vista Irrigation District board of directors recognized customers for their entries in the district’s WaterSmart Landscape Contest.

The annual contest recognizes outstanding water-wise residential landscapes based on the criteria of overall attractiveness, appropriate plant selection, design, appropriate maintenance, and efficient methods of irrigation.

Robin and Mike Zeigler received the “Best in District” award.  It was important to Robin, Mike and their daughter, Kallie, to be water smart with their landscaping choices during a comprehensive landscape and irrigation upgrade.  After taking a WaterSmart Landscape workshop last spring, the Zeiglers used their knowledge to transform their monotone front lawn to a colorful bloom filled garden reminiscent of their favorite European gardens.

The Zeigler’s landscape includes a wide array of drought tolerant plants, such as Red Sage and “Hot Raspberry” Butterfly Bush, which provide year round blooms that attract butterflies, birds and bees.  Vibrant splashes of magenta and coral Geraniums, bright yellow Yarrow, and Russian Blue Sage line the flagstone walkway; clusters of white Alyssum flowers contrast with the bright red and green hues of Aeoniums, Sediums, and Kangaroo Paws deliver a beautiful backdrop for the river rock bed flowing through the yard. The Zeigler’s have enjoyed their neighbors stopping by to ask who did the landscaping and compliment the transformation, and Ms. Zeigler acknowledged she “couldn’t be happier” with the results and has already started on the back yard.

Beverly Woodward was recognized with an honorable mention award.  The Woodwards wanted to get rid of their front lawn which took too much time, effort and expense to water; they took advantage of Waterwise courses at the local Botanical Gardens and rebates from the San Diego County Water Authority to transform their landscape to a lush garden that reminds them of their favorite hiking spots.  Understanding the components of a waterwise watering system and basic landscape design elements helped give them confidence to follow through with their landscape makeover.