WHAT I DO
I believe native focused landscapes should be accessible to everyone. I offer easy to follow landscape design plans that remove the complexity of traditional landscape designs so I can offer my services without the luxury design studio price tag. A typical landscape design service from someone who specializes in California native plants can start at $1,200. Whether you have a tiny apartment patio space, a hellstrip that needs a face lift, or a large yard, I can support your native landscape goals.
- DIY-Friendly Designs: If you love gardening and want to take a hands-on approach, I can provide a plant list so you can let your creativity flow without having to worry about researching the best plants for your project. Need a little more support with your project space? You may be interested in my design services where I provide guidance on plant selection, layout, and bonus resources to ensure your native landscape thrives with minimal hassle. These designs are simplified into plant maps so they are easy to follow and ready to hand off to a contractor or local landscape installer if DIY isn’t your thing.
- Collaborative Consulting: I also provide consultation services to organizations, government entities, and landscape installation companies that need specialized knowledge in California native plants. Whether you’re a contractor looking to incorporate native plants into a project or a public agency seeking to create environmentally responsible green spaces, I offer professional advice and recommendations on plant selection, design strategies, and best practices for successful native garden installation.
The GSN Story
Hey! I’m KJ, the gardener, designer, and educator behind Golden State Natives. As a kid, I developed a deep love for nature and gardening. I grew up in a family that loved to hike and explore the outdoors. My mom is a Master Gardener and my dad taught me everything I know about fencing, irrigation, and all the other handy things you need to know when growing up on a farm. I grew up daydreaming about spaces around my family’s farm where we could relax, connect with the beauty of the outdoors, and observe local wildlife. When my parents retired and sold off the farm, my outlet for creativity quickly became designing landscape spaces for other friends and family.
As my interest in landscape design grew, I discovered the importance of incorporating California native plants into my designs. Native plants became my special interest as a landscape designer and I’m lucky to live in a state that is a global biodiversity hotspot. California native plants can fit into any design aesthetic while also supporting pollinators and reducing water usage.
This journey of discovery and love for California’s diverse flora ultimately led to the founding of Golden State Natives. My love for native plants began as a self-taught hobby and evolved into a professional dedication to empowering others to incorporate more native plants in their gardens.
I’m committed to always being an affordable option so more people can join the native plant movement. Together, we can contribute to the conservation of our native fauna and flora, improve the health of the environment, and enhance the beauty of outdoor spaces by using plants that have evolved since the beginning of time to thrive in our state.
