FAQs

1. What are the best drought-tolerant plants for landscaping in Kelowna?

Kelowna’s hot, dry summers and cold winters make many “traditional” garden plants struggle. The most reliable choices depend on factors like the direction your house faces, the amount of light it gets, elevation from the lake, and the amount of water in the soil. These plants handle alkaline soil, intense sun, and long dry spells. Toucan Gardens always works to put in plants that will thrive in the setting that you have.

2. What are the current watering restrictions in Kelowna?

Kelowna has year-round assigned-day watering rules (Normal stage as of early 2026):

● Automatic underground systems → midnight to 6 a.m. on your 3 assigned days per week (odd/even addresses)

● Manual sprinklers/hoses → 6–10 a.m. or 7 p.m.–midnight on your 3 days

● Hand watering with a spring-loaded nozzle → allowed any time.

New sod or seed gets a 14-day establishment exemption. Stages can tighten in summer depending on snowpack and reservoir levels — always check the City of Kelowna website for the current stage. Toucan Gardens designs irrigation systems with hydrozoning (grouping plants by water needs) so you stay compliant and waste less water.

3. When is the best time to do landscaping in Kelowna?

● Early spring (mid-April to early June) → best for planting perennials, annuals, and starting new lawns. Soil is workable and plants have the whole growing season to establish.

● Early fall (September–mid October) → ideal for trees and shrubs. Roots grow before winter and you avoid summer heat stress.

● Planting can still be done between June and August, but proper watering is essential to help plants establish in the summer heat.

4. What soil problems are common in Kelowna and how do I fix them?

Okanagan soil is typically:

● Sandy/silty and fast-draining (low water and nutrient retention)

● Alkaline pH (7.0–8.5) — many popular plants (rhododendrons, hydrangeas, etc.) turn yellow and fail

● Low in organic matter

Toucan Gardens always starts with proper soil preparation so your new plants actively thrive instead of just surviving.

5. What is xeriscaping and is it right for my Kelowna yard?

Xeriscaping is water-smart landscaping designed for dry climates. It combines:

● Drought-tolerant plants, often native to the Kelowna region ● Mulch and amended soil

● Efficient irrigation (drip, soaker hoses, or smart controllers)

● Reduced lawn area (many Kelowna homes now keep turf to 25–50 % or less) It cuts outdoor water use by 30–70 %, lowers maintenance, and still looks beautiful. Almost every yard in Kelowna benefits from at least partial xeriscaping.

6. Do I need a permit for landscaping or hardscaping in Kelowna?

● Planting, small patios, pathways, and irrigation → usually no permit needed. ● Retaining walls over 1.2 m high (measured from the low side) → require a professional engineer’s design and a building permit.

● Multiple tiers of walls or walls near property lines may also trigger zoning review.

7. How much does professional landscaping cost in Kelowna?

Costs vary widely depending on scope. Because Toucan Gardens is a small, local operation, we keep overhead low and offer more affordable rates than the big crews with matching trucks. The best way to know your exact cost is a free on-site visit — no pressure, just honest advice.