A Backyard That Thrives Without a Sprinkler
Xeriscape your backyard and gain a stunning, drought-proof outdoor living space that saves thousands of gallons of water every year.
Why it works
The average American backyard lawn drinks 20,000 gallons per year. Xeriscaping eliminates that entirely while giving you a more interesting, lower-maintenance space. In fire-prone regions, a gravel-based xeriscape also creates defensible space around your home.
How to achieve this look
Divide the backyard into zones: a permeable paver patio for dining, a gravel garden for xeric plants, and a dry creek bed connecting drainage points. Plant structural anchors: desert willow, Texas mountain laurel, or manzanita. Add mid-height masses of Russian sage, lavender, and Mexican bush sage.
Arden shows your entire backyard transformed into a xeriscape oasis. Test different zones and see how they connect before breaking ground.
"I redesigned my entire backyard before buying a single plant. Saved me from so many mistakes."
-- Sarah M.
Domande Frequenti
Q1 Can I still have a lawn area in a xeriscape backyard?
Yes. A small, defined lawn area for kids or pets is fine — keep it to a functional zone and xeriscape the rest.
Q2 How do I water a xeriscape backyard during establishment?
Use drip irrigation for the first year. Taper off in year two. By year three, most plants survive on natural rainfall.
Q3 Will a gravel backyard be too hot in summer?
Light-colored gravel reflects rather than absorbs heat. Trees, shade sails, and water features cool the space. Avoid dark rock.