LEARN TO BE IN HARMONY WITH NATURE.

Byline: JANE GATES Gardening

SANTA CLARITA - This was a year of ups and downs.

The weather was remarkable in 2003, giving us a long gentle winter that brought out a magnificent display of wildflowers unequaled in decades.

That same bountiful display was followed by a long hot summer that crisped the beauty into fuel for Southern California's devastating wildfires. These fires licked at the edges of Stevenson Ranch and chewed into Val Verde.

This was a reminder that even the newer homes are well advised to keep fire-resistant landscaping in mind and that homes of all ages need to be regularly policed for safety. Building proceeded at record levels and native habitat was swept away under the developer's machinery.

This can be wonderful news for those new folks who have been able to move into this area. But it also means more demand on our water resources, more changes in the reflective material on the area surfaces - something that actually mediates our ambient temperatures and, therefore, weather - and more stress on wildlife and the ecological balance.

If we want to preserve the beauty of the Santa Clarita area and provide for reasonable living costs, we need to think in terms of how to landscape wisely or we will have escalating water bills, air pollution and more wildlife conflicts. Consider minimizing lawns, using water wisely where it will bring you the greatest return - such as vegetable, flower cutting or herb gardens. And if you have some open land, offer some wildlife sanctuaries in your design and plantings.

Although the Hawaiian tropical look is popular, consider tweaking the look with a little practicality. Even better, think of how beautiful this area really is, and use that beauty in designs that will harmonize with your budget as well as the ecology.

There are not many areas left that retain the charm of the Old West, but the chaparral is one of the few remaining. There are many ways to create beauty in your garden while being economically and ergonomically wise. Ask for help from designers and consultants if you need some creative ideas.

Like our gardens, we can grow in harmony together, or we can struggle to go against the flow. I've found that the former is not only easier, but it's fun and delivers great rewards.

My garden remains a teacher for me. Daily, it teaches the lessons of adaptation. And it demonstrates how to learn from adversity yet to revel in the gifts life has to offer.

When my garden grows well, I can share the bounty. It might not be much, but it helps me remember I am a vital part of the great picture of life. And that's enough to make me look forward to 2004 and the endless opportunities yet to come for me to create joy and harmony in my garden and out.

So I wish you all a wonderful new year filled with joy and peace and prosperity. And may you and your gardens grow strong and healthy in this brand new year to come.