Ditch the thirsty lawn and embrace a landscape that works with your climate, not against it. Xeriscaping is more than just gravel and succulents; it's a design-first, water-smart way to create a beautiful, thriving yard that fits your environment.

Whether you're in a drought-prone region or just want to reduce your water bill and environmental impact, this step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to get started and how to make it look amazing.

What is Xeriscaping?

Xeriscaping is a landscape design approach that focuses on low-water, climate-appropriate plants and efficient irrigation. The goal is to create a yard that looks lush but requires minimal supplemental watering.

Contrary to common myths, xeriscapes don’t have to look dry or barren. They can be layered, colorful, and full of texture and movement.

Step-by-Step: How to Design Your Xeriscape

Step 1: Evaluate Your Site

Start by analyzing your yard:

• Sunlight patterns: Where are your sunny hot zones versus shaded areas
• Soil type: Sandy, clay, loamy Poor drainage You can amend as needed
• Slope and drainage: Does water collect in low spots Where does runoff go
• Existing features: Hardscape, fences, views, trees you want to keep

Take photos and rough measurements. They’ll help you sketch and plan later.

Step 2: Group Plants by Water Needs

Divide your space into zones:

• High-water zone, if any, usually near the house or patio
• Moderate-water zone: Transitional areas
• Low-water zone: Farther from the house, often larger areas

This helps you avoid overwatering and makes irrigation more efficient.

Step 3: Choose the Right Plants

Focus on drought-tolerant, native, or adaptive plants that can thrive in your region with little supplemental watering.

Some go-to favorites:

• Southwest US: Penstemon, agave, desert marigold, red yucca
• California: Manzanita, ceanothus, California poppy, sages
• Plains or Mountain States: Prairie grasses, echinacea, sedum
• Southeast: Muhly grass, yaupon holly, coral honeysuckle

Mix textures, heights, and bloom times to avoid a flat or lifeless look.

Step 4: Replace Lawn with Hardscape and Mulch

Instead of turf, try:

• Gravel, decomposed granite, or flagstone paths and patios
• Mulched beds around planting zones
• Boulders or dry creek beds for structure and drainage

These elements add visual weight and reduce maintenance, while helping the soil retain moisture.

Step 5: Install Efficient Irrigation

Skip traditional sprinklers. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses. They

• Target water directly to plant roots
• Reduce evaporation and runoff
• Work well under mulch

Add smart irrigation timers or moisture sensors for even more efficiency.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

A xeriscape can be incredibly stylish. Consider:

• Steel or stone edging
• Raised beds or modern planters
• Drought-tolerant container gardens
• Subtle path lighting or solar accents

The key is a balanced layout and layered textures to make the space feel intentional and inviting.

Your Perfect Xeriscape Starts Here

Designing a xeriscape doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. In fact, some of the most stunning landscapes are low-water, native-plant-based designs that thrive with very little fuss.

Need help pulling it all together
Our online landscape design service can create a custom xeriscape plan for your yard, tailored to your location, goals, and style. No guesswork. Just beautiful, sustainable design.