Imagine a garden that thrives with minimal water—no constant sprinklers, no wilting plants, just pure, effortless beauty. Drought-tolerant landscaping isn’t just a smart choice for water conservation; it’s a low-maintenance way to create an outdoor oasis. Whether you’re battling scorching summers or just want to cut back on watering, these resilient plants and creative design tips will keep your yard looking spectacular.
Why Choose Drought-Tolerant Landscaping?
Maybe you live in a drought-prone state like California, Nevada, or Arizona. Perhaps you simply want to conserve water. Drought-tolerant landscaping incorporates plants, trees, grasses, and shrubs that can thrive in heat with minimal water. Here’s why this approach is gaining popularity:
Low maintenance – Drought-tolerant plants retain water with deep root systems, prevent soil erosion, and reduce the need for fertilizers and gardening supplies.
- Less water usage – These gardens significantly reduce water consumption which helps conserve this precious resource.
- Lower water bills – Cutting back on irrigation can lead to substantial savings on utility costs.
- Increased property value – A well-maintained, drought-resistant landscape enhances curb appeal and can boost home value.
Tips for Creating a Water-Wise Garden
Follow these tips to create a garden where moisture is naturally contained. When paired with plants and grasses that conserve water and/or have minimal water needs, your garden becomes truly low maintenance.
Reduce your lawn size. Replace part of your grass with beds of drought-resistant plants.
- Choose native plants. You are more likely to be successful with plants native to your region or those that will thrive in similar conditions.
- Space plants closely. This helps shade the soil, reducing evaporation and crowding out weeds.
- Group plants with similar needs. Watering will be more efficient and plants will receive the sunlight/shade that they need.
- Use compost and organic matter. This will help to hold the moisture in your soil.
- Incorporate decorative hardscape. Use elements like colorful Adirondack chairs, paver walkways, garden art, and large stones. Not only will they add beauty and interest, but they will also help reduce water runoff.
- Choose porous materials. Gravel, decomposed granite, and permeable pavers allow water to absorb into the soil rather than running off.
- Use mulch and groundcover plants. Mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, while groundcover acts as living mulch to further protect the soil.
- Consider tiered garden beds. Tiers help prevent water loss and erosion in sloped gardens.
Best Plants for Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
You don’t have to fill your yard with rocks. There are plenty of gorgeous plants to choose from that thrive with minimal water. Below, we’ve listed some popular ones. Before you plant, however, check whether these are native to your region and/or would do well there. If you have a pet, check that your choices are pet-friendly, too. Your local garden center or Department of Agriculture Extension office are both good resources.
Perennials & Shrubs
- Artemisia – This silver-green perennial grows in a low mound. It thrives in full sun with minimal water, and pairs well with ornamental grasses.
- Catmint – A hardy perennial, catmint has lavender-blue, pink, or white flowers.
- Evergreens – Certain varieties are drought-resistant and provide year-round greenery.
- Goat’s Beard – A shrub-like perennial, goat’s beard is named for its feathery white blooms.
- Lamb’s Ear – This low-growing perennial features velvety, silvery-gray leaves.
- Lavender – Fragrant and beautiful, lavender can add a pop of color along pathways. They come in varying shades of purple as well as pink, white and even blue.
- Lupine – These tall, colorful flowers have an added benefit. Their scent deters deer from eating your garden.
- Mexican Bush Sage – This perennial includes striking purple and white blooms that are loved by hummingbirds and butterflies. It can grow to 4-6 feet tall.
- Red-Flowered Penstemon – Tough yet colorful, this plant also attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Russian Sage – Featuring silver-gray foliage and lavender-blue flowers, this plant can reach heights of 2 to 4 feet.
- Sedum & Sea Thrift – This ground cover is ideal for filling gaps between stones while adding color.
- Succulents – Succulents, like agave and cacti, are usually budget-friendly, low-water plants that require little maintenance.
- Thyme – This plant is hardy and drought-tolerant, with varieties like silver edge thyme being particularly resilient.
- Yucca – Known for its sword-shaped leaves and tall flower stalks, the Yucca makes a dramatic statement.
- Zinnias – Some annuals, like zinnias, bring a pop of color with minimal upkeep. While they are drought-tolerant, they do grow best in moist soil.
Drought-Resistant Grasses
- Artificial Turf – The ultimate low-maintenance alternative, this requires an initial investment. It’s not for everyone so do some research to see if it is a good option for your needs.
- Bahia Grass – Deep-rooted and drought-hardy, Bahia grass is very tolerant of heat. It is a tropical or subtropical grass that thrives where many other grasses fail.
- Bermuda Grass – Fast-growing with a fine texture, this grass requires full sun and good drainage. It does not tolerate cold weather well.
- Zoysia Grass – This type of grass is slow growing and requires less mowing than other grasses. It stands up well to heat, drought and heavy foot traffic.
By implementing these drought-tolerant landscaping ideas, you can create a stunning, sustainable, and water-wise outdoor space that enhances your home’s beauty while conserving resources. Take that final step and make sure your home and property are well protected with the right insurance for added peace of mind.
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