Spring is already a month in, and rainfall has been scarce across San Diego. That’s prompting more homeowners to rethink their backyard landscaping — swapping out thirsty grass lawns for drought-tolerant plants that are better for the environment and easier on the wallet. Plants native to Southern California are built for dry conditions. Drought-tolerant species have evolved to thrive through the region’s notoriously dry spring and summer seasons — and now, more residents are taking note. Sprinkler-heavy landscapes are giving way to low-water designs that reduce both maintenance and monthly water bills.