Desert Landscaping Ideas for Arizona Homes

In the desert Southwest, a thirsty lawn is expensive to keep green. Desert landscaping, often called xeriscaping, uses plants and materials that thrive with little water, and it can look striking all year.

Start with a plan

• Note where the sun hits hardest, usually the south and west sides.
• Decide how you will use each area: play, dining, a path, or just a view.
• Group plants by water needs so you can water each zone correctly.

Plants that love the desert

• Trees for shade: palo verde, mesquite and desert willow cool the yard and the house.
• Shrubs: Texas sage, brittlebush and desert ruellia bloom with little water.
• Accents: agave, desert spoon, yucca and barrel cactus add bold shapes.
• Color: penstemon, desert marigold and lantana attract pollinators.

Your city or water utility likely has a list of low water plants for your area, and many offer rebates for removing grass.

Use hardscape and groundcover

• Decomposed granite (DG) for paths and open areas. Choose a color that suits the house.
• Boulders add natural structure and shade small plants.
• Flagstone or pavers for patios.
• Avoid large areas of dark rock right against the house; it holds heat.

Water smarter

• Use drip irrigation, not sprays, for shrubs and trees.
• Water deeply and less often so roots grow deep.
• Adjust the timer by season: more in summer, much less in winter.
• Use a smart controller that adjusts for weather.

Keep a little green

If you want grass for kids or pets, keep a small, well placed patch, or consider quality artificial turf. Note that artificial turf gets very hot in direct summer sun, so place it where it gets afternoon shade.

Plan for monsoon season

Summer storms can drop a lot of rain fast. Use dry creek beds and gentle slopes to guide water to plants and away from the house.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to plant in Arizona?

Fall is ideal for most desert plants. Roots grow through the mild winter before summer heat.

Is desert landscaping really low maintenance?

It is lower, not zero. Expect light pruning, weed control and checking drip lines.

Post your landscaping job and get bids from local landscapers, or find a landscaper near you.