

Features, Not Flowersįor those who wish the vegetation bon voyage but still want something more interesting than simple gravel, it’s time to explore features beyond just plants and stone … something that makes a backyard more than just a garden. Opt for a striking combination of white pavers set in black gravel, or line your walkways with a soft tan stone that reflects the hues of the desert. Looking for a way to cut your water costs dramatically? Why not ditch the plants altogether and landscape solely with rocks, pavers, and gravel? A rock garden won’t give you sweet blossoms in the spring, but it will save you a ton of time and energy spend keeping delicate plants alive during harsh Phoenix summers. And with so many varieties - from the towering giant saguaro to the more humble barrel cactus - it’s easy to build a cactus-only landscape that still had movement, depth, and character. If you don’t mind the spikes, cactus are some of the most famous drought-resistant plants out there. But if cactus isn’t exactly your thing, not to worry - various grasses, succulents, and shrubs, and sage make great additions to desert gardens, and many even have beautiful, brightly colored blooms throughout the year. One of the easiest ways to have a traditional landscape that’s still desert friendly is to opt for drought-resistant and low-water-usage plants. Here are 4 desert landscaping ideas to get you inspired. But a beautiful lawn or garden isn’t out of the question if you live in the Phoenix area … you simply need to adapt to your environment. Often they shrivel before the roots can even take hold. The lush, green landscapes of the east coast are no match for Arizona’s brutal summer sun. Here in the desert, it can be difficult to keep plants alive.
