by Jane Albertson with Elizabeth Sarmiento
Did you know that women make up only 20% of the landscaping industry? That’s right, only one in five landscapers is female (and that’s by the most optimistic estimates). Not only that, but data suggests that more women want to become landscaping professionals than end up entering the industry. We think that should change. This women’s month, we’re sitting down with local landscape sustainability expert Elizabeth Sarmiento of San Jose-based Smart-Yards Co-op and Smart Yards Education to discuss her passion for sustainability, what it’s like being a successful landscaper in a male-dominated field, and how you too can get started creating ecologically sound landscapes.
Meet Elizabeth!
Elizabeth Sarmiento has a deep love for nature and a strong belief in its inherent value in our lives. Originally from Honduras, she holds a degree in Environmental Studies and is deeply committed to conservation. Elizabeth is trained and certified by Greywater Action to design and install greywater systems. She is also a certified Bay-Friendly Regional Landscape Designer, a Santa Clara County Master Composter, a permaculture designer, and a Landscape Water Management Irrigation Training and Research Center (ITRC) Specialist.
With a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience, Elizabeth addresses the challenges of water supply, lost habitat, soil depletion, and energy demand by designing, installing, and maintaining ecological gardens. She empowers others by sharing her expertise on sustainable landscaping practices. Through her work, Elizabeth applies ecological principles to install native and drought-tolerant plants, drip and greywater irrigation systems, rainwater systems, pervious paving, and reusable materials.
Jane (l) and Elizabeth (r) holding Capitol Wholesale Nursery plants at a Smart Yards installation
Tell me about your background. How did you get into landscaping/design?
I grew up surrounded by nature and have always felt a deep connection to the natural world and its role in our lives. After all, humans are part of nature too!
I’m originally from Honduras, and like many immigrants, I came to the U.S. in search of new opportunities. One of the most striking differences I noticed upon arriving in Los Angeles was the way people interacted with water. Growing up, we harvested rainwater for daily use, we didn’t rely on sprinkler systems. I was raised with the understanding that water is planted, we plant water so that we can grow food.
“I was raised with the experience that water is planted, we plant water so that we can grow food.”
In LA, I was shocked to see rainwater rushing into gutters instead of being absorbed into the earth. Then I learned about the LA River, a channel filled with plastic rather than flowing water. Meanwhile, expansive green lawns were being watered by sprinklers, even as droughts became more frequent. It was a stark contrast to the relationship with water I had known, and it shaped my perspective on conservation and sustainability.
How did that experience influence your schooling?
Years later, I pursued my passion for the environment at San Jose State University, where I immersed myself in water studies, policy, and sustainability. I took nearly every course related to water, including water policy and water privatization, deepening my understanding of the complexities surrounding this essential resource.
About a year and a half into my studies, I approached the department chair with an idea. I had come across a course catalog entry on biogeographical landscape design, and it immediately resonated with me. I thought, This is crucial! More people need to learn about ecological and sustainable landscaping, I could teach this. To my surprise, the chair agreed and gave me the opportunity.
I don’t come from a family of scholars, but I’ve always been someone who is deeply enthusiastic, eager to make a difference, and unafraid to speak up. My goal in teaching this class was not only to share what I had learned but also to push myself to explore the subject further, because teaching requires in-depth research. I ended up co-teaching with another student who had a background in design, which brought a practical dimension to the course. She taught measurement and scaling, while I focused on ecological principles.
“I’ve always been someone who is deeply enthusiastic, eager to make a difference, and unafraid to speak up.”
Every student designed a garden, installed plants, and applied sustainable landscaping techniques across California, from the southernmost regions to the northern landscapes near Tahoe. At the end of the course, I compiled a booklet that wove together the poetic and practical elements of ecological landscape design.
That experience opened new doors for me. I went on to intern in water conservation at the Santa Clara Valley Water District, solidifying my path in environmental stewardship. My life has been shaped by a deep love for nature, my cultural background, and a relentless drive to create sustainable change.
The Smart Yards crew at a completed Smart Yards installation!
And how did you end up forming Smart Yards Co-op?
I spent years working with environmental nonprofit organizations—four years with one, then bouncing from one to another, teaching, organizing events, fundraising, and advocating for sustainability. While I knew my work was making a difference for these organizations (I even received a fellowship from the National Audubon Society for my contributions), I often felt disconnected. Sitting behind a desk for long hours, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wasn’t making the kind of tangible impact I wanted.
Whenever I felt exhausted or frustrated, I turned to nature, specifically, the garden. I come from a lineage of stonemasons and learned from my father how to build dry-stacked retaining walls without mortar, using ecological principles. So I built my own garden here in California, shaping it with stone. People began noticing, saying, Wow! That sparked something in me.
“I realized, This is what I’m meant to do.”
As my passion for hands-on work grew, I pursued further education, taking a permaculture design course and a six-week training with the Bay-Friendly Regional Landscape program. It reconnected me with my roots and deepened my desire to teach others about regenerative practices, native plants, soil health, graywater systems, rain harvesting, and sustainable living. I realized, This is what I’m meant to do.
But the journey didn’t stop there. I was on the board of Human Agenda, working alongside community leaders and elected officials. My friend Richard, who led the organization, invited me to join a group exploring the idea of launching an employee-owned cooperative. For three months, we met twice a month, debating what type of co-op to create. The initial vision of co-housing—people collectively owning a building, proved financially out of reach.
That’s when I had an idea. I told the group, Give me 30 minutes at the next meeting, and I’ll present a plan. My proposal? A worker-owned cooperative focused on ecological landscaping and design. We’re always in a drought. There’s a huge need for sustainable landscaping. We can do this! It’ll be employee-owned, rooted in nature, and driven by sustainability.
A few months later, in October 2015, we officially launched Smart Yards. We kicked it off right in front of my house, demonstrating rainwater harvesting, both active and passive, along with my greywater system and ecological design principles. What started as an idea in a community meeting had transformed into a thriving, sustainability-driven cooperative.
Why a co-op?
An employee-owned cooperative offers a powerful alternative to conventional business models, particularly in industries like landscaping and ecological design. We chose this model for Smart Yards because ensures fair wages, democratic decision-making, and economic empowerment for workers. Unlike traditional businesses that prioritize profit over people, co-ops share ownership and responsibility, fostering sustainability and long-term stability. At Smart Yards, this model allows us to prioritize ecological landscaping, water conservation, and regenerative design while keeping wealth in the community. By working together, we create a just, inclusive, and sustainable future, for both people and the planet.
“Unlike traditional businesses that prioritize profit over people, co-ops share ownership and responsibility, fostering sustainability and long-term stability.”
Smart Yards permaculture students learn hands-on techniques at a recent Smart Yards lawn transformation.
What services does your business offer?
Smart Yards Coop (SYC) is dedicated to designing, building, and maintaining sustainable, water-wise gardens. Our mission is to transform outdoor spaces into thriving ecosystems that conserve water, restore biodiversity, and support resilient communities.
We specialize in:
Ecological Landscape Design & Installation, converting lawns into water wise and habitat rich gardens with native plants, rain harvesting and sustainable drip irrigation systems
Water Conservation Solutions, installing graywater systems, rainwater harvesting, and permeable landscapes
Regenerative Land Care & Maintenance, providing organic, habitat-friendly garden care
Education & Community Engagement, teaching workshops on permaculture, water conservation, and sustainable living
By combining traditional ecological knowledge with modern sustainable practices, we empower individuals and communities to co-create landscapes that work with nature, not against it.
“By combining traditional ecological knowledge with modern sustainable practices, we empower individuals and communities to co-create landscapes that work with nature, not against it.”
Who do you work with? Can anyone request a Smart Yard?
We work with anyone looking to transform their outdoor space into a more sustainable and thriving ecosystem. Whether it’s converting a lawn into a native garden, replacing a concrete driveway with a permeable alternative, or creating a food forest or vegetable garden, we design and build systems that support biodiversity and conserve water.
Our work integrates environmentally friendly solutions like graywater systems (reusing water from showers, bathroom sinks, and laundry), rain gardens, and native plant landscaping. We collaborate with innovative minds and utilize eco-friendly products to bring these ideas to life.
“We help people fall in love with nature right outside their door.”
Ultimately, we help people fall in love with nature right outside their door. Our designs support native flora and fauna, enrich soil health, and address climate challenges, all while creating beautiful, resilient landscapes. Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding! In my own garden, I enjoy year-round harvests of fruits and vegetables, alongside the presence of a variety of butterflies, birds, native bees, and a vibrant array of California native plants. It’s a dynamic, living ecosystem—and an absolute joy to be a part of.
“You can start with a list of ideas.” The visionary Elizabeth and crew installing a waterwise, native plant front yard.
What is a first step for someone who’s interested in a native garden?
Having that awareness, the realization that your outdoor space could be so much more is the first step. If you love going out to see the super blooms for their beauty, why not create your own? If you care about water conservation and supporting pollinators, you can start small maybe by reducing your lawn and transforming part of it into a thriving habitat.
Are you ready to invest in nature? In the future of your community, your children, your grandchildren? Even in your property’s value? A well-designed, ecological landscape enhances not just aesthetics but also resilience and sustainability.
It’s about creating an outdoor space full of life and wonder. Imagine the aha moments watching butterflies emerge, witnessing an ecosystem flourish, experiencing true biodiversity. A healthy garden is a diverse garden, a space where you can walk outside, cut a fresh bouquet, and feel deeply connected to nature. There are so many reasons to start, and I could go on forever but the most important step is just beginning and you will never regret it.
So where can you start?
You can start with a list of ideas, why you want to have a garden and convert your lawn, a vision, colors you like to see in your garden, list of plants you like. This followed by a design that’s often the first step.
In 2017, I also founded a nonprofit to teach people how to transform a simple lawn into an eco-friendly garden. Over time, many of our own clients have become board members, donors, and sponsors, helping students learn these vital skills. I also collaborate with various organizations, including Valley Water District (VW), whose mission extends beyond water supply to include education, stewardship, and flood control. They actively support initiatives like ours, recognizing their value in conservation efforts, and education. They also incentivize Santa Clara county residents with the landscape rebate program to make it easier. We’re also grateful for the support of Capitol Wholesale Nursery, who has supported our hands-on educational by helping us spread the word, donating plants, and / or joining us to witness our exciting workshops and community building programs since we started in 2016.
“One garden at a time, we can save thousands of gallons of water each year while restoring vital habitat.”
One garden at a time, we can save thousands of gallons of water each year while restoring vital habitat. And it’s not just about water guzzling conventional landscapes with lawns and other plants that required resources and maintenance that result with pollution from gas-powered mowing and blowing. By shifting to regenerative and water-wise landscapes, we create healthier, more resilient spaces for people and wildlife alike.
Let’s talk about being a woman in the landscaping industry. Are you a member of any organizations supporting women in design, landscaping, agriculture, etc?
I am a member of Valley Water’s Landscape committee, hold various certificates: Greywater Designer and Installer from Greywater Action; Permaculture Design, a Master Composter from Santa Clara county; an Associate Degree in Environmental Studies from San Jose State University, Landscaping Contractors License from the State of CA and many years of experience working as land, water, environmental steward and an entrepreneur.
What unique strengths do you think women bring to landscaping and design?
I think women bring a holistic, creative, and sustainable approach to landscaping and design. Our attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and deep connection to nature help create thriving, eco-friendly spaces. With strong collaboration and communication abilities, I personally design landscapes that are not only beautiful but also functional, inclusive, and restorative. Women often lead in sustainability, biodiversity, and community-driven projects, ensuring that outdoor spaces support both people and the planet.
Have you ever encountered discrimination? How did you deal with it?
Discrimination is unfortunately a reality in many fields, and being Latina adds another layer of challenge. However, my approach is to not take it personally. I choose to listen and remind myself that how others behave has more to do with their own struggles than with me. I refuse to see myself as a victim, because letting negativity affect me would only hold me back. We all have our battles, but it's important to take care of ourselves, love ourselves, and share that love with others. By doing so, we create a stronger, more supportive community.
“We all have our battles, but it's important to take care of ourselves, love ourselves, and share that love with others. By doing so, we create a stronger, more supportive community.”
What other challenges might you have encountered as a woman in a male-dominated industry? Is there any support that is missing?
Lifting a stone and men want to help me! [laughs] But we’re making progress on those types of challenges. We just need to show up! And be confident. One thing I have noticed is for some guys, manual labor comes easier for them, but we women develop our skills; we’re constantly learning and developing. We demonstrate our intelligence, our self-worth, our capability by doing that! In permaculture, in regenerative agriculture, people care – that’s very unique to women; but there are men doing this work too. I work daily with men who are great, and very supportive.
I have had a lot of support from many men in the field, including vendors, and those doing some of the work. Growing up with men, being an immigrant, the ability to do physical work as a stone mason, gardener, and the love for sharing resources helps me connect with men as well as women.
Any final thoughts on being a woman in this field?
I’ve thought about this a lot, and I realize that in some ways, I deny the reality of discrimination because I don’t want to be seen as a victim. I want to emphasize my strength and the strength of women, showing that we are capable and can do so much more. But the more I reflect on it, I realize that I sometimes hide from the truth, because it’s hard to confront. I tend to take the high road because I come from a patriarchal, macho environment, and I had to be tough to get ahead. But the more I think about it, the more I recognize how much strength it takes to keep moving forward, to continue doing this work despite those challenges.
“The more I think about it, the more I recognize how much strength it takes to keep moving forward, to continue doing this work despite those challenges.”
Discrimination is real, and it often undermines you, questioning your strength and purpose. Sometimes I have to remind myself that it’s a fact, something I have to face. It can be a barrier, and it’s discouraging at times—it’s frustrating. But acknowledging it is a step toward breaking through and pushing forward.
All photos copyright © 2025 Jane Albertson
What advice do you have for young women hoping to enter the field? For example, do you need any special education? What courses or certifications would you recommend?
I would say: What’s the reason you want to enter this field? Do you have a passion for gardening? Do you feel connected to the earth and the planet, and want to make a difference? What drives you?
This field is incredibly diverse, with so many opportunities to explore. You can address climate change challenges, promote the benefits of local flora and fauna, and delve into subjects like biology and native plants. There’s so much to learn and so many ways to make an impact. Permaculture design courses touch on all of these important aspects.
“There’s so much to learn and so many ways to make an impact.”
At Smart Yards, we do a lot of teaching, and there are many ways people can contribute. Not everyone needs to know about plants or irrigation. There are technical disciplines that support these types of businesses. For example, I’m looking for someone to do marketing, outreach, someone who’s both technical and creative. We’re also looking for a horticulture specialist that loves gardening and to care for ecological gardens, which is crucial because as more people make the transition from blowing and mowing, we need more people who know how to properly care for these spaces.
Women bring a unique, feminine touch to this work. We have an intuitive sense of when soil needs amending or what plants need to thrive. Others might focus on building or moving earth, but there’s work for everyone in this field. There are endless possibilities, and everyone has something valuable to contribute!
What other thoughts do you have about how to empower women in landscaping and design?
Supporting each other is key—not just women, but men too! There’s work for everyone in this field, and we’re all in this together. It’s truly exciting to be part of the solution. The more we collaborate and lift each other up, the greater the impact we can make—whether it’s for a healthier planet or stronger, more vibrant communities. Why not celebrate each other’s successes? After all, when one person succeeds, we all benefit.
“The more we collaborate and lift each other up, the greater the impact we can make—whether it’s for a healthier planet or stronger, more vibrant communities.”
Nature’s ecosystems thrive on interdependence and collaboration. From the mycorrhizal networks that connect trees and fungi for mutual benefit, to the symbiotic relationships between flowers and pollinators, nature teaches us that cooperation is a fundamental principle of life. By observing and applying these natural models, we can build human systems—social, economic, and environmental—that are more sustainable, resilient, and harmonious. We are all part of the web of life, and by working together, we can create a future that’s better for all and future generations.
