Water Wise Landscape Example

ONE

Our drought-tolerant zone next to the driveway has mulch and low-water shrubs instead of grass. This zone continues along the length of the house and eliminates watering, mowing and edging chores in low-use areas. Notice how the shrubs serve as a buffer to our northern neighbor and as camouflage for the storage area.

TWO

Our turf area in the backyard is located in the landscape’s lowest spot, which is where there is plenty of naturally occurring moisture. Alternatives to grass include mulched walkways, a deck or a screened patio. These additions don’t need water and reduce landscape maintenance chores.

THREE

More drought-tolerant ground covers and shrubs hug the back of our practical turf area. These plants give privacy to our patio and deck while providing shade, and they are water-efficient.

FOUR

Native vegetation, including drought-tolerant shrubbery, is used in the side yard. This further reduces watering and maintenance.

FIVE

Our practical turf area in the front yard, like that in the back, is round in shape to reduce its perimeter, making it easier to irrigate and maintain. Long, narrow strips of grass are hard to irrigate efficiently. A brick walkway, border grass and a mulched flower bed further reduce watering and edging chores and add colorful accents.