There are many things you can do to be water-wise, save money, and have a beautiful yard. Simple changes like adjusting your irrigation schedule to water during cooler parts of the day, using drought-tolerant plants, and applying mulch to retain moisture can make a big difference. Installing efficient sprinkler systems or drip irrigation can also reduce water waste while keeping your landscape healthy.
By being mindful of how and when you use water, you not only conserve a precious resource but also lower your utility bills and create a sustainable outdoor space that thrives year-round.
Below are several tips to keep in mind.
Soil and Site Conditions
- Keep your soil healthy
- Aerate your soil
- Use mulch to save water and improve soil health
- Minimize steep slopes
- Use soil amendments where appropriate
Plants
- Use regionally appropriate, low water-using and native plants
- Recognize site conditions and plant appropriately
- Group similar plants together for irrigation
Maintenance
- Irrigate only when needed
- Keep up with the weeding
- If you have a lawn, raise your lawn mower cutting height
- Minimize or eliminate fertilizer
Award-Winning Landscapes
Check out photos of a few past contest winners at CVWaterCounts.com/desert-landscaping, as well as several beautiful drought-tolerant yards we’ve come across.
