Honest Gardens

Honest Gardens is a San Francisco Bay Area based design firm specializing in creating personalized, sustainable gardens that reflect the unique needs and desires of each client. Driven by a passion for environmentally friendly practices and a deep appreciation for California's native flora, Honest Gardens transforms outdoor spaces into thriving havens that are both beautiful and functional.

Founded by Janet Cohen, a landscape designer with over ten years of experience, Honest Gardens is dedicated to crafting gardens that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also promote biodiversity, conserve water, and require minimal maintenance.

Services Offered

Honest Gardens offers a comprehensive range of design and implementation services, tailored to meet the specific requirements of each project. From initial consultation and concept development through to planting and ongoing maintenance guidance, Janet Cohen and her team are committed to providing a seamless and rewarding gardening experience.

• Design Consultation: The design process begins with a thorough understanding of the client's vision, lifestyle, and the unique characteristics of their site. Janet Cohen listens attentively to her clients' desires, taking into account factors such as desired aesthetics, functionality, budget, and existing landscaping features.

• Hand-Drawn Garden Designs: Drawing upon her artistic talents and horticultural expertise, Janet crafts meticulous hand-drawn designs that bring the client's vision to life.

These designs meticulously incorporate a carefully selected palette of plants that thrive in the local climate, ensuring both beauty and longevity.

• Native Plant Selection & Implementation: A key component of Honest Gardens' philosophy is the integration of California native plants. Native species are inherently adapted to the local environment, require less water and maintenance, and support local ecosystems by providing habitat for native insects, birds, and other wildlife.

• Sustainable Practices: Honest Gardens is committed to environmental responsibility, employing sustainable gardening techniques throughout the design and implementation process. This includes utilizing water-saving irrigation systems, minimizing soil disturbance, and employing organic soil amendments.

• Maintenance Guidance: Understanding that a garden's beauty and health require ongoing attention, Janet provides clients with comprehensive maintenance guidance. This includes recommendations for watering schedules, seasonal pruning, and other care practices, ensuring that the garden flourishes for years to come.