Let’s face it, we live in the desert and are used to droughts. Since the water supply can be scarce at times, why not conserve and landscape with plants that thrive in a desert climate? Xeriscaping is a way to do a fun and colorful desert landscape without using a lot of water.
Every time we turn on the sprinklers to water our lawns and trees, we’re using an abundance of water. By switching from water-guzzling lawns to drought-resistant plants, you not only cut back on your water bill, but you’re creating a low maintenance landscape that fits in beautifully with our desert environment.
Selecting the right plants and the right drip-irrigation system is the key to having a successful Xeriscape. The Arizona Republic recommends the below plant suggestions.
1) Desert Milkweed. This desert plant loves the sun and can tolerate reflected heat. It’s a small to medium shrub, 2 to 5 feet tall and about 3 feet wide. The plant needs little to no water when established.
2) Indian Fig Prickly Pears. It’s a bushy cactus that can grow up to 15 feet in height. The prickly pear is a hardy plant and can withstand temperatures well above 100.
3) Mexican Bird of Paradise can also grow tall — up to 15 feet. The plants can be shaped as a full dense shrub or screen, or you can let them grow into a full dense shrub or natural canopy tree.
4) Lantana. The flowers bloom year-round and come in a variety of colors. In fact, they’re one of the most colorful plants used in Xeriscaping. They’re fast growing. The most popular colors are orange/red and pink.
5) Soapy Aloe. The sap lathers when mixed with water. The leaves range in color from red to green but you can recognize the plant by the H-shaped spots. The flowers range in color from bright red to yellow. The plants are damaged if the temps drop below 32F