With all the trees, shrubs and grass we have growing in Southern California, it's easy to forget we live in a desert. Most years, we import millions of gallons of water from northern and central California, the Owens Valley and the Colorado River, and pump millions more from groundwater wells that draw water out of our regional aquifers. Increasingly, water is in short supply and is becoming more expensive. Additionally, California faces repeating cycles of heavy rains (El Niño) followed by drought (La Niña). In fact, historically, our state has faced prolonged droughts that have lasted over 50 years. Therefore, it is critical that everyone work to conserve as much water as possible. Water-wise gardening involves using various landscaping techniques that help conserve water while maintaining a beautiful and efficient yard.