With Utah’s dry climate and low relative humidity percentages, it’s only fitting to try out a drought-resistance landscape design. In recent years, xeriscaping has become increasingly popular for both water conservation and low-maintenance landscaping purposes. So, follow along for all the drought-resistant landscaping ideas for Utah!
Or, read about the Types of Pine Trees in Montana here.
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How do you create a drought-tolerant landscape?
Xeriscape is a landscape style that requires little to no irrigation or other maintenance. Therefore, you’ll be using less water and won’t have to spend as much time tending to your front yard.
But how exactly do you turn your garden into a xeriscape oasis?
Well, for starters – try getting rid of that soil or mulch – you won’t be constantly worrying about soil conditions anymore. Instead, use rocks, stones, or even gravel to act as a groundcover. Pavers are a great way to enhance your curb appeal while also using little water (and it’s budget-friendly)! Additionally, creating a rock garden is another great way to start – your water bill with your low water use!
Another option is to find water-wise plants that you want to incorporate into your flower beds. What plants are going to thrive in your Utah climate year-round? For example, transitioning to a drip irrigation system and utilizing a lot of cacti and succulents is a great start to creating a drought-tolerant landscape. Plant selection is a lot more important than you may think!
Moreover – try getting rid of that grass and putting in ornamental grasses or even turfgrass. You won’t need to be running the sprinklers constantly – or be out mowing! I’ve actually seen a lot of Salt Lake City homeowners opt for ornamental grasses with some hardscape in there – and it looks great!
What is the most drought-tolerant groundcover?
Looking for a groundcover that can withstand full sun? Here are a few of our favorites:
- Lantana
- Silver Carpet
- Spanish Daisy
- Gazania
- Creeping Rosemary
- Yarrow
- Sedum
What is a drought-resistant native plant?
If you’re going for a water-wise landscape, then it’s only fitting you want to find native species to help your landscape thrive. One of the best native plants to incorporate is Blanket Flower (Gaillardia). It’s a gorgeous collection a short-lived perennials, consisting of yellow flowers with a hint of red.
There are also a lot of other great non-native options. In Utah, you’re going to see a lot of rain gardens since they get quite a bit of rain throughout SLC and the area. However, in areas like St. George – you’re going to see more water-wise landscaping and drought-tolerant plants.
Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Utah:
As we discussed above, use native plants! They’ll thrive in the Utah climates better.
Try xeriscaping! Incorporate those stone pavers and some succulents and you’ll be good to go!
Or, try hardscaping! By having a fire pit or even outdoor patio – your yard will require less-maintenance and you’ll be saving on water costs!
If you live in Salt Lake City, incorporate some evergreens into your drought-resistant landscaping ideas. They thrive in the SLC climate.
Look at these raised flower beds on gravel. These require little maintenance and create a clean backyard look.
Creeping Orange Grape is an evergreen native groundcover. Because it’s a native species, they’ll grow best in the Utah climates.
Coral Bells are another Utah native plant. Aren’t they just gorgeous?!
Again, think about using pebbles or stones to set the scene for your landscaping design. Then, you can incorporate a few succulent beds.
If you live in Southern Utah – like the Saint George area – then xeriscaping and succulents would be a great addition to your yard!
Bring out that ornamental grass! It’s a great low-maintenance option that thrives all over Utah.
Planting lavender is a great low-maintenance idea. They require very little attention – and still allow your yard to look beautiful!
Just because you xeriscape doesn’t mean your yard needs to be missing of color! Look at these gorgeous plants that bring a pop of color to the yard.
If you live in a dry, warm climate – then try out some cacti! They thrive in warmer climates – and can even survive in full sun.
Incorporate a pathway made out of gravel or small stones. It will accentuate your front door/front porch as the main focal point!
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