As many of its residents well know, the state of Utah is primarily a desert region that gets very dry throughout the year. Many parts of the state experience various levels of drought as a result, and this is something you should be thinking about if you’re designing a landscape anywhere in Utah.
At Aeroscape, we’re here to help. We offer an unmatched range of landscape design and installation services to clients around Salt Lake City, Sandy, Draper, South Jordan and nearby areas, including drought-tolerant landscape design concepts that help you maintain a great landscape despite dry conditions and water conservation efforts. Here are some basics on drought-tolerant landscape design in general, plus some common elements often included in them for landscapes around Utah.
For those just learning about this concept, drought-tolerant landscape design is essentially the practice of designing and installing landscapes that require minimal watering to maintain. These landscapes are perfectly suited for areas like Utah where water use and conservation efforts are important considerations.
Instead of relying on traditional irrigation methods, drought-tolerant landscapes incorporate various techniques and features to promote water conservation, such as xeriscaping (landscaping with plants that require little to no extra watering) and incorporating hardscape elements like rocks, gravel or mulch to reduce the need for constant watering.
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to drought-tolerant landscape design, there are some common elements that can be used here. We’ll discuss some of these in our subsequent sections.
One of the most effective ways to achieve a drought-resistant landscape is by incorporating native plants into the design. Native plants are those that naturally grow in the region, and they are well adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. This means that they require less water and maintenance compared to non-native plants.
Not only do native plants conserve water, but they also attract more wildlife and pollinators to your landscape, making it more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Plus, there is a wide variety of beautiful native plants available that can add color and texture to your landscape design.
While drought-resistant landscapes aim for minimal watering needs, some irrigation systems are still necessary for plant health in extreme dry conditions. However, instead of traditional sprinkler systems that can result in significant water loss due to evaporation or runoff, efficient irrigation systems like drip irrigation or soaker hoses can be used. These systems deliver water directly to the plants’ roots, reducing water waste and promoting healthier plant growth.
Adding a layer of mulch or rocks to your landscape design can significantly reduce water usage. Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil while also preventing the growth of weeds that compete for water with your plants. Rocks, on the other hand, act as a natural barrier against evaporation and help regulate soil temperature, resulting in lower watering needs for your plants.
When we talk about drought-resistant landscapes, xeriscaping is often one of the first things that come to mind. This landscaping method involves using plants and materials that require minimal water for survival. It emphasizes on utilizing native plants and incorporating efficient irrigation systems, mulch, and rocks to create a sustainable landscape design.
For instance, a common application of xeriscaping is replacing most or all of the traditional lawn with native grasses or plants that require less water. This reduces the need for constant watering and mowing, making it a practical and eco-friendly landscaping option.
Another way to conserve water in your landscape is by collecting rainwater. Rain barrels can be installed to collect and store rainwater, which can then be used for watering plants during times of drought. This method not only reduces water usage but also helps prevent erosion and flooding in the yard.
If you’re looking for a completely maintenance-free and water-efficient lawn, artificial turf may be the answer. This synthetic grass mimics the look and feel of real grass without the need for watering, mowing, or fertilizing. While it does require an initial investment, it can save significant amounts of water and money in the long run.
At Aeroscape, we understand that every landscape design is unique and requires customized solutions. That’s why our team works closely with clients to create personalized drought-tolerant landscape designs that meet their specific needs and preferences while also promoting sustainability and conservation efforts. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create a beautiful landscape that saves water and stands up to Utah’s dry climate, whether you’re in SLC, South Jordan, Sandy, Draper or any nearby area!
