In a high-desert climate, a thirsty green lawn can be hard work. Xeriscaping — designing landscapes that need little extra water — creates a yard that's beautiful, resilient and much easier to care for.
Start with a plan
Map sunny and shady areas, slopes and how you use your yard. Group plants with similar water needs together to make irrigation more efficient.
Choose native and adapted plants
Sagebrush, penstemon, yarrow, ornamental grasses and other drought-tolerant plants thrive in local conditions and attract pollinators.
Rethink the lawn
Keep turf only where you'll use it, such as a play area, and replace the rest with gravel paths, groundcovers or planting beds.
Improve the soil and mulch
Adding compost helps soil hold moisture, while mulch reduces evaporation and keeps weeds down.
Water wisely
Drip irrigation delivers water right to the roots. Water early in the morning and adjust schedules with the seasons.
Want a water-wise yard? Guide Home Improve can design a landscape that suits your home and climate.