Many homeowners believe that they can’t grow a lush, beautiful backyard garden in Tucson because of the intense heat and drought. However, at Horticulture Unlimited, we have the knowledge and expertise needed to help our clients choose the best plants for Tucson landscapes. We will work closely with you to evaluate your space, discuss your ideas and goals, and design a carefully-zoned landscaped area that perfectly enhances your outdoor living space. Keep reading for tips on designing an outdoor space that looks beautiful year-round, including advice on landscaping zones and plant choices.
Create Landscaping Zones for More Sustainable Landscaping in AZ
Landscaping zones are distinct, planned areas that are used for specific plants, shade structures, and entertainment areas. By evaluating the sun exposure, soil composition, elevation, drainage, and insect and animal activity in each area of your outdoor space, we can determine what to plant where. We can then group plants together based on their similar sun, water, soil, and drainage needs. This makes for more efficient watering and allows us to combine companion plants, or ones that support the health and growth of others. By using zones, we can find the best areas for plant growth as well as the optimal spaces for other uses, like a patio, outdoor kitchen, lounge area, and recreation.
Prioritize the Use of Native Plants
The best plants for Tucson landscapes are native, drought-tolerant plants that don’t require heavy daily watering, can withstand intense sun and heat, and won’t harm local ecosystems and wildlife. Some ideal choices are:
- Mesquite, palo verde, and palo blanco species
- Chuparose, Arizona rosewood, little leaf cordia, and fairy duster shrubs
- Prickly pear, agave, yucca, organ pipe, and cholla cacti
- Desert marigold, Mexican evening primrose, pink muhly grass, and groundcovers and flowers
Embrace Water-Wise Design
In addition to using landscaping zones and drought-tolerant native plants, you can also utilize xeriscaping principles to ensure your landscaped areas are water-efficient. Some of the ways to do so are:
Opt for a smart or programmable irrigation system.
Use compost, mulch, and shade structures to minimize water evaporation.
Ensure proper drainage and soil type to direct water runoff to other plants below.
Water deeply in the early mornings during the hottest parts of the summer.
Opt for Sustainable Hardscaping
Finally, when designing custom outdoor living spaces, opt for eco-friendly landscape installation whenever possible. This includes:
- Permeable paving materials like porous pavers, concrete, or asphalt to reduce stormwater runoff
- Recycled or reclaimed materials like reclaimed lumber, salvaged concrete slabs, and recycled metal or rubber for patios, walkways, and retaining walls
- Natural and renewable materials like brick, stone, flagstone, bamboo, and cedar
Eco-friendly mulches and aggregates to improve soil composition and drainage
When you partner with our landscape design experts at Horticulture Unlimited, we can help you create a water-wise, gorgeous desert landscape design in Tucson, AZ. We prioritize the use of native plants and earth-friendly materials for fully sustainable landscaping in AZ. Call us today or contact us online to set up an initial consultation.