Most people know the desert is a beautifully rugged place, with gorgeous natural sunsets and landscapes. Leaning into the natural world around you, you can create a beautiful desert landscape without spending a fortune. By mimicking the world around us, we can design affordable and low maintenance spaces that are both beautiful and enjoyable. As a former desert rat (and now a Coloradan), I'm excited to share some inexpensive desert landscaping hacks to help transform your yard into a beautiful sanctuary, without breaking the bank.
Sections:
Use Native Plants
Use Gravel & Rocks
Shaded Seating
Mulch for Water Retention
Repurpose Materials
FAQS
Further Reading
Design your perfect yard today.
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1. Use Native Plants
The desert was beautiful before we settled it, and it'll be beautiful after. Take inspiration from the plants that are already thriving, versus bending non-native species into an environment that's completely unsuitable. Using native plants that are adapted to the local climate and soil, will require much less water and maintenance, and are often cheaper than non-native plants. A few things to consider:
Research which plants are native to your area and will thrive in your specific desert climate. This won't take much, look around you...
Incorporate plants with different textures and colors to add interest and variety to your landscape - just because we're in the desert doesn't mean we need to lean heavy into rocks and catcus - there's a ton of variety that blooms throughout the year and will provide a nice variety to your space.
Consider using succulents, which are native to many desert regions and require very little water - not to mention they are gorgeous and can help fill space where most things won't grow. These things can take off like weeds!
A true cost savings hack - choose plants that are easy to propagate, such as agaves, yuccas, and cacti, this way you can easily expand your garden without needing to continuously make new plants purchases every season. Pay attention to what plants you have - some plants should only be propagated at certain times.
2. Use Gravel and Rocks
Using gravel and rocks is another cost-effective way to create a desert landscape. Not only do they add texture and interest to your garden, but they also help conserve water by reducing evaporation. Here are some sub-points to consider when using gravel and rocks:
Use larger rocks as focal points and smaller rocks to create pathways or fill in spaces between plants.
Choose a variety of rock colors and sizes to add interest to your landscape.
Consider using crushed granite or decomposed granite as a base layer for your gravel to improve drainage and prevent weeds.
Use gravel and rocks to create natural-looking dry creek beds or rock gardens.
Collect rocks from around your property or local area to save money on purchasing them.
3. Create Shaded Seating Areas
Creating shaded seating areas is essential in the desert, where temperatures can soar during the day. However, creating these areas doesn't have to be expensive. Here are some sub-points to consider when creating shaded seating areas:
Use shade sails, which are less expensive than traditional awnings, to create shade over your patio or seating area.Install a pergola or arbor covered in climbing vines, which will provide shade and add a touch of natural beauty to your landscape.
Use umbrellas or patio umbrellas to provide shade for smaller seating areas.
Consider planting trees that provide shade, such as mesquite or palo verde trees, which are native to many desert regions.
Create a seating area under a covered porch or overhang, which will protect you from the sun's rays and keep you cool.
4. Use Mulch
Using mulch is another inexpensive way to create a desert landscape. Mulch helps conserve water by reducing evaporation, keeps weeds down, and helps regulate soil temperature. Here are some sub-points to consider when using mulch:
Choose a mulch that's appropriate for your plants and climate, such as wood chips, shredded bark, or gravel.Apply a layer of mulch around your plants, leaving a few inches of space around the base of each plant to allow for air circulation.
Reapply mulch every six to twelve months to maintain its effectiveness.
Consider using organic mulch, such as shredded leaves or pine needles, which will break down over time and add nutrients to your soil.
Use a dark-colored mulch, such as black or dark brown, to absorb heat and help warm the soil during cooler months.
5. Repurpose Materials
Repurposing materials is a great way to save money on your desert landscaping. Here are some sub-points to consider when repurposing materials:
Use old pallets to create a vertical garden or planter boxes.Repurpose old furniture, such as chairs or benches, as seating in your garden.
Use old tires to create raised beds or planters.
Reuse old bricks or pavers to create pathways or borders for your garden beds.
Look for free or low-cost materials on websites like Craigslist or Freecycle, such as rocks or mulch, to use in your landscaping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a grass lawn in a desert landscape?
While it's possible to have a grass lawn in a desert landscape, it's not recommended as grass requires a lot of water to maintain. Instead, consider using native grasses or groundcovers that require less water and maintenance. Here are some options to consider:
- Buffalo grass: This native grass is drought-tolerant and requires less water than traditional turfgrass.
- Blue grama grass: Another native grass that is well-suited for desert climates and requires less water.
- Groundcovers: Low-growing plants like creeping thyme or woolly yarrow can be used as an alternative to grass and require less water.
How do I prevent erosion in my desert landscape?
Erosion can be a major issue in desert landscapes, especially during heavy rainstorms. Here are some ways to prevent erosion:
- Create terraces or retaining walls to hold soil in place.
- Plant native grasses or groundcovers to provide root systems that hold soil in place.
- Use gravel or rocks to create pathways or borders, which can also help prevent erosion.
How do I control weeds in a desert landscape?
Weeds can be a nuisance in any landscape, but they can be particularly problematic in desert landscapes where water is scarce. Here are some ways to control weeds:
- Hand-pull weeds as soon as you notice them.
- Use a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weed seeds from germinating.
- Use organic mulch, such as wood chips or leaves, to suppress weed growth.
Can I plant fruit trees in a desert landscape?
Yes, you can plant fruit trees in a desert landscape, but it's important to choose varieties that are well-suited for your climate. Here are some fruit trees that are well-suited for desert landscapes:
- Citrus trees: Varieties like orange, lemon, and grapefruit are well-suited for desert climates.
- Pomegranate trees: These trees are drought-tolerant and produce delicious fruit.
- Date palm trees: These trees are a staple in desert landscapes and produce sweet, edible dates.
How can I attract pollinators to my desert landscape?
Pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, are important for plant reproduction and biodiversity. Here are some ways to attract pollinators to your desert landscape:
- Plant native flowers, such as desert marigold or penstemon, which provide food and habitat for pollinators.
- Provide a source of water, such as a bird bath or small pond, which can attract butterflies and other insects.
- Avoid using pesticides or other chemicals that can harm pollinators.
What are some low-maintenance plants for a desert landscape?
Low-maintenance plants are a great choice for desert landscapes, as they require less water and maintenance than other plants. Here are some options to consider:
- Agave: This plant is drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance.
- Desert willow: A native tree that produces beautiful flowers and requires minimal watering.
- Ocotillo: A striking plant that produces red flowers and requires minimal watering.
How can I make my desert landscape more visually interesting?
A desert landscape doesn't have to be dull and uninteresting. Here are some ways to add visual interest:
- Use a variety of textures, such as smooth rocks or spiky cacti, to create contrast.
- Incorporate hardscaping elements, such as a water feature or a sculpture, to add visual interest.
- Use a variety of colors, such as orange and yellow flowers or blue and purple succulents to add visual contrast and pops of joyful surprise and delight.
How do I deal with extreme temperatures in a desert landscape?
Extreme temperatures are a common challenge in desert landscapes, with scorching hot days and freezing cold nights. Here are some ways to deal with extreme temperatures:
- Choose plants that are well-suited for your climate and can withstand extreme temperatures.
- Use shade structures, such as a pergola or shade sail, to provide relief from the hot sun.
- Consider using insulation in outdoor structures, such as a shed or outdoor kitchen, to help regulate temperature.
How do I design a desert landscape that is child-friendly?
Designing a child-friendly desert landscape requires some planning, as safety is a top priority. Here are some tips for designing a child-friendly desert landscape:
- Use soft, rounded rocks instead of sharp, jagged rocks to reduce the risk of injury.
- Choose plants that are non-toxic and safe for children.
- Create play areas, such as a sandbox or swing set, that are safe and age-appropriate.
How do I maintain my desert landscape over time?
Maintaining a desert landscape requires ongoing care and attention to ensure that plants and hardscaping elements remain healthy and attractive. Here are some tips for maintaining your desert landscape over time:
- Water plants according to their needs and adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions.
- Prune plants as needed to promote healthy growth and remove dead or diseased branches.
- Replace damaged or worn-out hardscaping elements, such as broken pavers or cracked walls, to maintain the overall aesthetic and function of your space.
Next steps for inexpensive desert landscaping ideas:
Research and choose low-maintenance plants: When choosing plants, look for native species that are drought-tolerant and require minimal upkeep. Examples include agave, yucca, and cacti.
Use rocks and gravel: Rocks and gravel are affordable and low-maintenance options for landscaping. They can be used to create paths, define garden beds, or create decorative features.
Install a drip irrigation system: A drip irrigation system is an efficient way to water plants and conserve water. It can be easily installed and adjusted to water different areas of your yard.
Consider adding mulch: Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil and suppresses weed growth. Choose a mulch that is compatible with desert landscaping, such as gravel or crushed granite.
Use recycled materials: Consider using recycled materials for landscaping features, such as recycled glass or concrete.
What to do next, and further reading:
"Desert Landscaping for Beginners" by Jennifer Noonan (https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/landscaping-and-hardscaping/landscaping-in-the-desert)
"Low-Cost Ideas for Desert Landscaping" by Christina Chee (https://www.thespruce.com/low-cost-ideas-for-desert-landscaping-2132626)
"Xeriscaping: A Guide to Planning and Creating a Water-Wise Landscape" by Denver Water (https://www.denverwater.org/conservation/xeriscaping)
"Water-Saving Tips for Desert Landscapes" by Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (https://www.amwua.org/water-wise-landscape-tips)
"The Complete Guide to Xeriscaping: Dry Climate Gardening" by Laura Peters (https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Guide-Xeriscaping-Climate-Gardening-ebook/dp/B076ZQV23R)