Water-efficient landscaping and xeriscaping are essential strategies for sustainable urban planning. These approaches conserve water, reduce maintenance costs, and create beautiful, eco-friendly outdoor spaces. By using native plants, efficient irrigation, and smart design, cities can significantly cut water usage and promote biodiversity.
These techniques offer multiple benefits beyond water savings. They can lower energy use, improve air quality, and create habitats for local wildlife. As climate change intensifies water scarcity, implementing water-efficient landscaping practices becomes crucial for building resilient, sustainable urban environments.
Benefits of water-efficient landscaping
Environmental benefits
- Conserves water resources reduces strain on local water supply and helps maintain healthy ecosystems
- Minimizes runoff and erosion by promoting deep root growth and improving soil structure
- Reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides minimizes pollution and protects water quality
- Provides habitat for beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife supports biodiversity
Economic benefits
- Lowers water bills by reducing irrigation needs and overall water consumption
- Reduces maintenance costs associated with mowing, fertilizing, and pest control
- Increases property value by creating an attractive, low-maintenance landscape
- Qualifies for water conservation rebates and incentives offered by local utilities or government agencies
Aesthetic benefits
- Creates a visually appealing landscape with diverse textures, colors, and forms
- Showcases native and drought-tolerant plants well-suited to the local climate and environment
- Incorporates natural elements such as rocks, boulders, and wood features for added interest
- Provides year-round beauty with strategic plant selection and placement
Principles of xeriscaping
Planning and design
- Conduct a site analysis to assess soil type, sun exposure, slope, and existing vegetation
- Create a functional and aesthetically pleasing layout that considers the property's unique characteristics
- Develop a planting plan that groups plants with similar water needs (hydrozoning)
- Incorporate hardscapes, such as patios and walkways, to minimize water-intensive areas
Soil improvement
- Test soil to determine its texture, pH, and nutrient content
- Amend soil with organic matter (compost) to improve water retention and root growth
- Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds
- Avoid soil compaction by minimizing foot traffic and using proper planting techniques
Appropriate plant selection
- Choose native and adapted plants that thrive in the local climate and require minimal water
- Consider the mature size, growth habit, and water requirements of each plant species
- Select a diverse mix of plants to create visual interest and promote ecosystem health
- Avoid invasive species that can outcompete native plants and disrupt natural habitats
Efficient irrigation
- Install drip irrigation systems to deliver water directly to plant roots, minimizing evaporation and runoff
- Use smart controllers and sensors to adjust irrigation schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels
- Group plants with similar water needs to optimize irrigation efficiency (hydrozoning)
- Regularly inspect and maintain irrigation systems to prevent leaks and ensure proper function
Mulching
- Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch (wood chips, bark) around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Use inorganic mulches (gravel, pebbles) in areas with low water requirements or to create decorative features
- Replenish mulch as needed to maintain its effectiveness and aesthetic appeal
- Avoid placing mulch directly against plant stems or tree trunks to prevent rot and disease
Maintenance practices
- Prune plants regularly to promote healthy growth, remove dead or diseased branches, and maintain desired shape
- Monitor plants for signs of stress, pests, or disease and address issues promptly
- Adjust irrigation schedules seasonally to account for changes in temperature and rainfall
- Remove weeds by hand or with targeted herbicide applications to minimize competition for water and nutrients
Drought-tolerant plant species
Native vs non-native plants
- Native plants are naturally adapted to the local climate, soil, and rainfall patterns require less water and maintenance
- Non-native plants can be drought-tolerant but may require more resources to establish and maintain
- Examples of native drought-tolerant plants in the southwestern U.S. include:
- Agave (Agave spp.)
- Yucca (Yucca spp.)
- Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)
- Examples of non-native drought-tolerant plants include:
- Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
- Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
- Olive trees (Olea europaea)
Grasses and groundcovers
- Drought-tolerant grasses and groundcovers provide low-maintenance alternatives to traditional lawns
- They require less water, mowing, and fertilization compared to cool-season turfgrasses
- Examples of drought-tolerant grasses and groundcovers include:
- Buffalo grass (Bouteloua dactyloides)
- Blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis)
- Sedums (Sedum spp.)
- Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum)
Shrubs and perennials
- Drought-tolerant shrubs and perennials add structure, color, and texture to xeriscape designs
- They have deep root systems that allow them to access moisture from deeper soil layers
- Examples of drought-tolerant shrubs and perennials include:
- Sage (Salvia spp.)
- Coneflower (Echinacea spp.)
- Butterfly bush (Buddleja spp.)
- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Trees for xeriscaping
- Drought-tolerant trees provide shade, reduce air temperature, and create microclimates in the landscape
- They have extensive root systems that help stabilize soil and prevent erosion
- Examples of drought-tolerant trees include:
- Desert willow (Chilopsis linearis)
- Palo verde (Parkinsonia spp.)
- Texas mountain laurel (Sophora secundiflora)
- Mesquite (Prosopis spp.)
Irrigation techniques for water conservation
Drip irrigation systems
- Deliver water directly to plant roots through a network of tubes, emitters, and drippers
- Minimize water loss from evaporation and wind drift compared to overhead sprinklers
- Allow for precise water application and control, reducing overwatering and runoff
- Can be customized to meet the specific water needs of individual plants or zones
Sprinkler system efficiency
- Adjust sprinkler heads to ensure even coverage and minimize overspray onto hardscapes or non-planted areas
- Use low-angle nozzles to reduce water loss from wind drift and evaporation
- Install pressure-regulating devices to maintain optimal water pressure and prevent misting or fogging
- Regularly inspect and repair sprinkler heads to fix leaks, clogs, or misalignments
Smart controllers and sensors
- Automatically adjust irrigation schedules based on weather data, soil moisture levels, or plant water requirements
- Use real-time data from weather stations, soil moisture sensors, or evapotranspiration (ET) sensors
- Can be programmed to comply with local watering restrictions or drought contingency plans
- Provide remote access and control through mobile apps or web-based interfaces
Irrigation scheduling and monitoring
- Water deeply and infrequently to promote deep root growth and drought tolerance
- Schedule irrigation during early morning or late evening hours to minimize evaporation and wind drift
- Monitor soil moisture levels using probes or sensors to avoid overwatering or underwatering
- Adjust irrigation schedules seasonally to account for changes in temperature, rainfall, and plant water needs
Landscape design strategies
Hydrozoning
- Group plants with similar water needs together to optimize irrigation efficiency
- Create distinct zones based on water requirements (low, moderate, high) and irrigate accordingly
- Use drought-tolerant plants in low-water zones and reserve high-water zones for functional or aesthetic purposes
- Separate zones using berms, borders, or hardscapes to prevent water from flowing between them
Minimizing turf areas
- Limit the use of water-intensive turfgrasses to functional areas (play areas, pet areas) or small accent zones
- Replace non-functional turf with drought-tolerant groundcovers, mulched beds, or permeable hardscapes
- Use alternative lawn options, such as native grass mixes or low-water turf blends
- Incorporate artificial turf in high-traffic or decorative areas to reduce water consumption and maintenance
Creating shade and windbreaks
- Strategically place trees and tall shrubs to provide shade and reduce air temperature in the landscape
- Use deciduous trees to allow for solar gain in winter and shade in summer
- Plant evergreen trees and shrubs on the north and west sides of the property to block cold winds and reduce heating costs
- Create microclimates that reduce water loss from evaporation and transpiration
Incorporating hardscapes and permeable surfaces
- Use permeable pavers, gravel, or crushed stone for patios, walkways, and driveways to allow water infiltration
- Install rain gardens or bioswales to capture and filter stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces
- Incorporate dry creek beds or rock gardens to add visual interest and direct water flow
- Use raised planters or containers to create focal points and reduce the overall planted area
Soil management in xeriscaping
Soil texture and structure
- Assess soil texture (sand, silt, clay) to determine its water-holding capacity and drainage properties
- Improve soil structure by adding organic matter (compost) to increase porosity and water retention
- Use coarse sand or gravel to improve drainage in heavy clay soils
- Avoid excessive tilling or cultivation, which can damage soil structure and reduce water infiltration
Organic matter and amendments
- Incorporate compost, aged manure, or other organic materials to improve soil fertility and water-holding capacity
- Use a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch (wood chips, bark) to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds
- Apply organic fertilizers (bone meal, blood meal) to provide slow-release nutrients and support plant growth
- Avoid synthetic fertilizers, which can contribute to soil salinity and water pollution
Soil moisture retention
- Use hydrogels or water-absorbing polymers to increase soil moisture retention in sandy or well-draining soils
- Apply a layer of mulch to reduce water evaporation from the soil surface
- Incorporate water-retaining amendments, such as perlite or vermiculite, to improve soil moisture retention
- Use wetting agents or surfactants to help water penetrate and spread evenly through hydrophobic soils
Soil fertility and nutrient management
- Conduct soil tests to determine nutrient deficiencies or imbalances
- Apply organic fertilizers or compost to provide essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) for plant growth
- Use slow-release or controlled-release fertilizers to minimize nutrient leaching and runoff
- Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive plant growth and increased water demand
Mulching materials and applications
Organic vs inorganic mulches
- Organic mulches (wood chips, bark, straw) decompose over time and improve soil structure and fertility
- Inorganic mulches (gravel, pebbles, crushed stone) are permanent and provide a decorative element to the landscape
- Use organic mulches in planting beds and around trees and shrubs to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Use inorganic mulches in areas with low water requirements or to create paths, borders, or drainage features
Depth and coverage
- Apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch to effectively retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Avoid applying mulch too deeply, which can impede water and air movement to plant roots
- Extend mulch coverage to the drip line of trees and shrubs to protect roots and reduce competition from weeds
- Leave a 2-3 inch gap between mulch and plant stems or tree trunks to prevent rot and disease
Weed suppression and moisture retention
- Mulch acts as a physical barrier that prevents weed seeds from germinating and accessing sunlight
- Organic mulches release allelopathic compounds that inhibit weed seed germination
- Mulch reduces water evaporation from the soil surface, conserving moisture for plant uptake
- Mulched soils have a more stable temperature and moisture content, promoting root growth and drought tolerance
Maintenance practices for water-efficient landscapes
Proper pruning techniques
- Prune trees and shrubs to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches and promote healthy growth
- Use selective pruning to shape plants and maintain their natural form and structure
- Avoid excessive pruning, which can stimulate new growth and increase water demand
- Time pruning activities to coincide with the plant's dormant season or after flowering to minimize stress
Fertilization and pest management
- Use organic or slow-release fertilizers to provide nutrients and support plant health
- Apply fertilizers at the appropriate time and rate based on plant species and soil test results
- Monitor plants for signs of nutrient deficiencies or toxicities and adjust fertilization accordingly
- Use integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to prevent and control pest outbreaks
- Regularly inspect plants for signs of pest activity or damage
- Use cultural controls (proper watering, pruning) to promote plant health and resistance
- Apply targeted, low-toxicity pesticides only when necessary and according to label instructions
Irrigation system maintenance and repair
- Regularly inspect irrigation systems for leaks, clogs, or malfunctioning components
- Repair or replace damaged sprinkler heads, valves, or pipes to ensure efficient water delivery
- Flush irrigation lines annually to remove debris and prevent blockages
- Adjust sprinkler head alignment and coverage to minimize overspray and ensure even water distribution
Monitoring and adjusting for seasonal changes
- Monitor soil moisture levels and plant health throughout the growing season
- Adjust irrigation schedules and run times based on seasonal weather patterns and plant water needs
- Reduce irrigation frequency and duration during periods of cool weather, high humidity, or rainfall
- Increase irrigation during periods of high heat, low humidity, or drought stress
- Use weather-based or soil moisture sensor-based controllers to automatically adjust irrigation schedules
Case studies and examples
Residential xeriscaping projects
- Front yard renovation in Denver, Colorado
- Replaced 2,000 square feet of Kentucky bluegrass with drought-tolerant native plants and mulched beds
- Installed a drip irrigation system and smart controller, reducing water consumption by 60%
- Created a visually appealing, low-maintenance landscape that attracts pollinators and wildlife
- Backyard makeover in Phoenix, Arizona
- Removed non-functional turf areas and replaced with decomposed granite and native plant islands
- Incorporated a dry creek bed and boulder features to add visual interest and manage stormwater runoff
- Used a palette of desert-adapted plants, including cacti, succulents, and native wildflowers
Commercial and institutional applications
- Corporate campus landscape in Austin, Texas
- Designed a xeriscape master plan for a 50-acre corporate campus, emphasizing water conservation and native plant diversity
- Converted high-water turf areas to native grass meadows and drought-tolerant planting beds
- Installed a centralized, weather-based irrigation system to optimize water use and reduce maintenance costs
- Achieved a 45% reduction in landscape water use and a 30% reduction in maintenance expenses
- University campus in Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Implemented a campus-wide xeriscape initiative to reduce water consumption and showcase regional plant communities
- Replaced non-functional turf areas with native plant gardens, featuring species from the Chihuahuan Desert and Rio Grande bosque
- Incorporated educational signage and interpretive trails to engage students and visitors in the principles of xeriscaping
- Reduced landscape water use by 55% and earned recognition as a model for sustainable campus design
Public parks and green spaces
- City park in Las Vegas, Nevada
- Transformed a 20-acre park from a water-intensive turf landscape to a xeriscape showcase
- Used a zoned planting approach, with high-water use areas limited to active recreation zones and park entrances
- Incorporated a diverse mix of native and desert-adapted plants, arranged in naturalistic groupings
- Installed a high-efficiency irrigation system with weather-based controllers and soil moisture sensors
- Reduced park water consumption by 70% and created a resilient, low-maintenance landscape
- Streetscape renovation in San Antonio, Texas
- Redesigned a 1-mile streetscape corridor to demonstrate the principles of xeriscaping in an urban context
- Replaced turf parkways with a palette of drought-tolerant, native plants and street trees
- Used permeable pavers and bioswales to manage stormwater runoff and reduce irrigation demand
- Incorporated seating areas, public art, and interpretive signage to create a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly environment
- Achieved a 50% reduction in streetscape water use and improved the ecological function and aesthetic quality of the public right-of-way
Policies and incentives for water-efficient landscaping
Local and regional regulations
- Water conservation ordinances that limit outdoor watering schedules and practices
- Example: City of San Diego's Water Conservation Ordinance, which restricts outdoor irrigation to specific days and times based on property address
- Landscape design standards that require the use of drought-tolerant plants and water-efficient irrigation systems
- Example: City of Santa Monica's Landscape and Irrigation Design Standards, which mandate the use of water-efficient landscaping in all new development projects
- Stormwater management regulations that encourage the use of permeable surfaces and green infrastructure
- Example: City of Philadelphia's Green Streets Design Manual, which promotes the use of bioswales, rain gardens, and permeable pavement in streetscape projects
Water conservation rebates and programs
- Turf removal rebates that provide financial incentives for converting water-intensive lawns to drought-tolerant landscapes
- Example: Southern Nevada Water Authority's Water Smart Landscapes Rebate Program, which offers $3 per square foot for the removal of turf and installation of xeriscape