Business Details
Sustainable Landscaping Services in San Jose
Smart Yards Coop is a C-27 licensed landscaping contractor dedicated to transforming conventional landscapes into sustainable, ecologically rich environments. We specialize in California-native, water-wise gardens that utilize drought-tolerant plants, recycled materials, and innovative irrigation systems like greywater and rain harvesting. Our approach integrates permaculture and regenerative design principles to create functional, biodiverse spaces that support local wildlife and human communities. We prioritize organic practices, avoiding synthetic chemicals to maintain ecosystem balance.Our team combines technical expertise with environmental stewardship, offering design, installation, and garden care services tailored to client needs. Through Smart Yards Coop Education, our nonprofit partner, we provide workshops on sustainable practices, empowering communities to adopt climate-resilient landscaping. With over a decade of combined experience, our certified professionals deliver projects that conserve resources, reduce maintenance, and enhance property value while fostering ecological harmony.
Services
Sustainable Landscaping
Water-Wise Gardens
Native Plant Installation
Greywater Systems
Rain Harvesting
Stone Hardscaping
Food Forest Design
Garden Maintenance
Permaculture Education
Pollinator Habitats
Highlights and features
- Community-driven approach prioritizing sustainability and education
- Certified expertise in permaculture and Bay-Friendly landscaping
- Specialized in California-native, drought-tolerant plant ecosystems
- Innovative water conservation through greywater and rain systems
- Commitment to organic practices with zero synthetic chemicals
What people say
Amazing results
Expertise in native plants
Water savings achieved
Creative reuse of materials
Outstanding customer service
Services
Sustainable Landscaping
Our sustainable landscaping creates resilient outdoor spaces using California-native plants and recycled materials. We implement permaculture principles to design ecosystems that conserve water, reduce maintenance, and support local biodiversity while enhancing aesthetic and functional value for residential properties.
Greywater Systems
We install greywater systems that repurpose laundry and shower water for landscape irrigation. These systems reduce municipal water use by up to 32 gallons per square foot annually while maintaining healthy, productive gardens through safe, code-compliant designs.
Rain Harvesting
Our rain harvesting solutions capture and store rainwater for landscape use. Techniques include permeable hardscapes, rain gardens, and dry creek beds that prevent erosion, recharge groundwater, and sustain gardens during drought periods using natural water cycles.
Native Habitat Gardens
We design native habitat gardens featuring California-specific plants that support pollinators and local wildlife. These ecosystems require minimal irrigation, provide year-round interest, and create functional habitats that reconnect urban spaces with regional biodiversity.
Stone Hardscaping
Our stone hardscaping uses dry-laid techniques to create durable, eco-friendly features like retaining walls and pathways. This mortar-free method allows water infiltration, prevents runoff, and provides habitat spaces while adding natural beauty to landscapes.
People
Elizabeth Sarmiento
Founder
Environmental Studies graduate and certified permaculture designer with expertise in greywater systems and sustainable irrigation. Leads ecological garden transformations while co-founding Smart Yards Coop Education nonprofit for community outreach.
Aurelio Hilario
Master Stone Mason
Skilled artisan specializing in dry-stacked stone structures. Brings traditional Mexican masonry techniques to create functional, durable landscape features that integrate with natural ecosystems and client sustainability goals.
Richard Hobbs
Advisor
Human rights attorney and cooperative development expert providing strategic guidance. Applies legal and organizational expertise to support the company's community-focused business model and sustainability mission.
Questions
What water-saving benefits do your landscapes provide?
Our designs reduce water use by 60-80% through native plants, greywater recycling, and rain harvesting systems tailored to California's climate.
Can you work with small yard spaces?
Yes, we specialize in maximizing functionality and beauty in all sizes, including transforming compact urban lots into productive ecosystems.
Do you offer maintenance services?
We provide ongoing garden care using organic methods to maintain ecosystem health and landscape longevity.
How does the Valley Water rebate program work?
We guide clients through converting lawns to water-wise landscapes, helping secure $2-3,000 rebates while meeting district requirements.
Are your materials environmentally responsible?
We prioritize recycled, local, and natural materials like reclaimed stone and wood to minimize environmental impact.
Do you provide educational workshops?
Our nonprofit partner offers hands-on training in permaculture, greywater systems, and sustainable landscaping techniques for homeowners and professionals.
Videos
Reviews (2)
Liliana Castaneda Rossmann
Feb 10, 2017
Report
The members of this co-op are knowledgeable, thorough, creative, and flexible. They listen carefully to ensure they understand what the client wants. Then they set up to execute in a timely, thorough and systematic manner.
Yan-Yin K. Choy
Sep 27, 2016
Report
Smart Yards Co-Op donated amazing succulent and native plant centerpieces for our nonprofit annual fundraiser earlier this year. Thank you Smart Yards Co-Op! Support your local small business and get beautifully crafted sustainable landscaping for your home. Talk to Elizabeth Sarmiento and Smart Yards!
