Landscaping is essential to make any property look beautiful. But landscaping comes in different types and styles. In hotter areas of the world like deserts, landscaping needs a very different approach. Desert landscape might sound like a niche term for something specific to the desert areas, but it is actually something that can be used both in desert areas and in other parts of the country. Desert landscaping typically includes adding plants that might survive in a desert. In some cases, we can use desert landscaping to recreate the look of a desert. This article delves into understanding what is desert landscaping and why you need to have it, especially if you live in hotter areas.
What is Desert Landscaping?
Desert landscaping is a specific type of landscaping for hot dry climates with very little water. Certain plants, trees, and shrubs thrive in desert-like environments while other plants wither. Desert landscaping calls for plants that not only survive the climate but also withstand the heat, especially during the summer. As a homeowner, you can invest in plants that will not only help you reduce the stress of maintenance but also give you a sense of pride and accomplishment. In addition, desert landscaping can help offset the stress and fatigue caused by urban living.
The Benefits of Desert Landscaping
Desert landscaping has several benefits to offer. Although they are often more work than traditional lawns, desert landscaping can be a fantastic addition to any yard.
Low Maintenance
One of the most popular reasons is that it’s very low maintenance. This means that you won’t have to spend much time or effort finding ways for your plants to thrive. Because most plants that can grow in a desert environment are drought-tolerant, they do not need to be watered as often as other plants, which is very helpful. In the summer, during the rainy season, you’ll need to water it about once a week. That is all you’ll need to do to have a thriving plant. This is the most obvious benefit of desert landscaping, especially in areas with water shortages. For this reason, desert landscaping is also great for reducing your carbon footprint. Desert landscaping also doesn’t require as much fertilizing as other types of flowers and plants because the flowers are not as rich in nutrients. This allows for many different flowers and plants to grow in one area without the need to be divided between two or three different areas. These qualities make desert landscaping an ideal choice for people who are short on time and have the desire to plant something beautiful in their backyards. And when you need to clean up the lawn, it doesn’t take very much time or energy.
Offers an Array of Colors
Most people will only think of the stereotypical brown deserts when they hear the word desert landscaping. It’s true that deserts can have a large amount of sand and dirt for miles, but there are also hidden gardens and oases that offer a large variety of plants. One of the biggest benefits of desert landscaping is the color variety. The sand, rocks, and soil are great for supporting a wide range of foliage, from cacti and succulents to flowers and trees. If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas for your landscaping design, feel free to look at some photographs and use that as inspiration! You can paint the desert in rich colors that can really stand out from the green forests and grassy fields of other areas. Desert landscaping offers a gorgeous array of colors. While many desert plants are green, others come in a wide assortment of reds, yellows, and oranges. These colors make your home stand out in a crowd!
Health Benefits from Desert Plants
Desert plants also have many other health benefits. Many plants naturally purify the air. They cleanse the air of toxins and release oxygen! Some desert plants can be used to purify the air including cactuses and aloe vera. Aloe vera is especially good at filtering air pollution like formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds. Various different types of plants can be used to filter the air including conifers and pines. Having plants in your home can help with allergies, asthma, colds, flu, stress, and even cancer. Children that have increased exposure to greenery while growing up have also been shown to have the higher lung capacity and are less likely to suffer illness.
Even in the dryest of climates, you can still make a pleasant and attractive scene by leveraging the benefits that come with planting desert plants. Gardening in the desert can be just as beautiful and fruitful as gardening in wetter regions. With a little help from some very resilient forms of vegetation, one can create a venue full of life and vibrancy without breaking the bank.
There is more to desert landscaping than the dry ground and cacti that many people imagine. Many of the plants are brightly colored and make the dry ground come to life. With desert landscaping, you can draw attention to the house. So if you want to draw attention to your home, desert plants are the best choice.
The biggest challenge to desert landscaping, however, is making sure you find the right plants, especially if you are dealing with a large area. The plants you choose will not only affect the look of your home but will also help to create a more comfortable living environment. That is why it is vital you rely on a professional landscaper when you decide to start desert landscaping at home. You do not have to worry about getting it right because you have the expert to tell you the best method and they can direct you the right way.
Homeowners in the beautiful Coachella Valley region rely on our professional desert landscapers at Water Wise Landscape! For over 20 years, we’ve been designing and installing desert landscapes that bring your outdoor area to life without compromising water consumption. Our knowledge of Coachella Valley native plants, landscape lighting, and irrigation systems put us in a league of our own! Our experts craft desert landscape designs that match your personal tastes and exceed water efficiency. Call us today for a free consultation!