Water-efficient landscaping takes a simple, holistic approach to every step of creating a yard that looks beautiful and saves water. Incorporate seven basic steps from planning and design to long-term maintenance to achieve maximum water savings.

1. Planning and Design

Good planning and design are some of the most important steps for a waterwise landscape. This is true if you’re starting from scratch or updating an existing landscape.  Choose native, waterwise plants and set yourself up for efficient watering. Create irrigation zones based on plant type, soil type, and light exposure. Not sure where to start? Go with a pro. 

2. Compost and Cultivate

Healthy soil is the foundation of water-efficient landscaping. It provides support, water, oxygen, and nutrients to plants and soil-dwelling organisms. Learn about soil amendments and get healthy soil tips for your landscape. 

3.Create Functional Turf Area

Grass needs more water and maintenance than most other plants.  Make sure your lawn is practical, functional, and water-efficient. Whether you want to learn how to make your lawn more waterwise or you’re ready to replace some or all of it, start with these tips and resources.

4. The Right Plant in the Right Place

Different plants need different amounts of water, sun, and shade to thrive. Grouping plants with similar needs will make it easier to water and care for them. Get waterwise plant resources and tips on how to water any type of landscape efficiently.

5. Water Wisely

The greatest waste of water is watering too much, too often. Overwatering wasteful and it can also damage your plants and soil. Use the Weekly Watering Number to get recommendations for how much to water each week. It is based on local weather and can be used for different types of plants. 

6. Amend Your Soil

Adding soil amendments, such as mulch and compost, is key to improving your soil. Organic mulches are the best choice to cover and cool your soil. Find out how much to add and how they benefit your soil.

7. Keep Up the Maintenance

Routine maintenance will keep your plants healthy. It will make your landscape more resistant to different weather, pests, and disease. Incorporate these four easy ways to maintain your landscape:

1. Aerate your lawn yearly. This will promote root growth and water absorption.
2. Weed as needed by hoeing or pulling them by hand. Weeds compete with plants for nutrients, light, and water.
3. Adjust your mower to a higher setting. A taller lawn provides shade to the roots, so your lawn needs less water.
4. Check your irrigation system for leaks, broken lines, and damaged sprinkler heads. A well-maintained system will save you money, water, and time.