C27 License Water Conservation and Drought-Tolerant Landscaping 3

Question 1

What is the 'establishment period' for drought-tolerant plants?

Accepted Answer

The period of supplemental irrigation needed until plants develop self-sustaining root systems

Answer

The time plants take to first bloom

Answer

The minimum warranty period contractors must provide to clients

Answer

The time required for landscape permits to be approved

Question 2

Which grading technique best helps retain rainwater on-site in drought-prone landscapes?

Accepted Answer

Creating swales and berms to direct runoff toward planted areas

Answer

Grading all areas away from plants to prevent root rot

Answer

Installing French drains throughout all planted areas

Answer

Compacting soil to slow water movement

Question 3

What is the primary water conservation benefit of permeable paving in a landscape?

Accepted Answer

It allows rainwater to infiltrate into the soil rather than running off

Answer

It prevents weeds more effectively than solid paving

Answer

It requires no maintenance compared to solid surfaces

Answer

It is always less expensive than traditional concrete or asphalt

Question 4

What is 'graywater' and how is it applicable to California landscaping?

Accepted Answer

Lightly used household water from sinks and showers that can legally be reused for landscape irrigation

Answer

Rainwater harvested in above-ground barrels

Answer

Water with a gray tint caused by high mineral content

Answer

Recycled water from swimming pools treated for reuse

Question 5

What is the purpose of a Landscape Irrigation Audit required under California's MWELO?

Accepted Answer

To verify irrigation system efficiency and identify water waste or over-application

Answer

To assess plant health and identify disease

Answer

To calculate contractor labor costs for water system maintenance

Answer

To inspect contractor license compliance during project inspections

Question 6

Which practice best supports California's goal of reducing potable water use in landscapes?

Accepted Answer

Using recycled (reclaimed) water for irrigation where available

Answer

Replacing all plants with artificial turf

Answer

Installing larger water storage tanks

Answer

Increasing irrigation frequency to improve plant vigor