6 Key Things for Xeriscaping Your Yard in Arizona
Why Xeriscape? The metro Phoenix desert receives approximately 7 inches of rain annually. This means we are dry hot and dry cold, and it is important that we do not plant things that have high water usage. Xeriscaping is a smart approach to landscaping in our arid Arizona desert to help conserve water and create a more sustainable outdoor living space. Here are six essential factors to consider when developing a xeriscape landscape for your yard here in the desert:
1. Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants:
Best to opt for plants native to the desert or those that are drought tolerant or low water usage. Examples include succulents like agave and cacti, as well as desert-adapted shrubs like desert lavender and brittlebush. These plants require minimal watering once established, making them ideal for xeriscaping projects.
2. Group Plants by Water Needs:
Efficiently manage water usage by grouping plants with similar water requirements together. This strategy ensures that each plant receives the appropriate amount of water without overwatering or underwatering certain areas. Consider the specific needs of each plant species and create clusters accordingly to maximize water conservation.
3. Proper Irrigation Setup:
Install a water-efficient irrigation system tailored to the needs of your xeriscape. Drip irrigation is particularly effective in Arizona, delivering water directly to the roots of plants while minimizing evaporation and runoff. Consider incorporating smart irrigation controllers to adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, further optimizing water usage.
4. Hills & Natural Hardscapes:
Take advantage of the natural terrain and incorporate mounding or terraces into your xeriscape design. Natural outcropping of boulders and river washes that control and retain water helps to prevent runoff and erosion while adding visual interest to your yard. Tree canopies can add shade to a plant that requires some sun, but also protection from the hottest of days. Natural hardscape elements such as gravel pathways, stone walls, or decorative rocks to reduce the amount of water-intensive turfgrass in your landscape.
5. Reduce Lawn Area:
Limit the size of your lawn or replace it entirely with low-maintenance alternatives. In Arizona's climate, traditional turfgrass requires significant water inputs to remain green and lush, making it less compatible with xeriscaping principles. Consider replacing grass with drought-tolerant ground covers, artificial turf, or permeable paving materials to minimize water usage and maintenance requirements. Some municipalities offer rebates to remove existing turf towards installing a xeriscape alternative, so contact your city water department to see if there is any current program they are incentivizing.
6. Water Conservation Practices:
Implement water-saving techniques to further reduce your xeriscape's environmental impact. Harvest rainwater using barrels or cisterns for irrigation and consider using gray water from household sources such as sinks and showers to supplement your landscape's water needs. Additionally, schedule irrigation during early morning or late evening hours to minimize evaporation, and adjust watering frequency based on seasonal weather patterns.
By prioritizing these six key elements—choosing drought-tolerant plants, grouping plants by water needs, implementing proper irrigation, incorporating hills and natural hardscapes, reducing lawn area, and adopting water conservation practices—you can create a beautiful and sustainable xeriscape that thrives in Arizona's arid climate while conserving water and minimizing maintenance requirements. Remember to partner with experts like Wildflower Desert Design to ensure your landscaping project is a success. Schedule a free consultation to get started today.