How to Landscape a Small Yard in the Desert

Living in a desert climate has its challenges, especially when trying to plan out landscaping in a small area. Desert terrain features sand, harsh sun exposure and limited water, but there are still plenty of ways to beautify your surroundings. When planning the landscape for your yard, it's important to choose plants that thrive on little water and even create different zones in the space to utilize a water supply. Just because you live in the desert doesn't mean you're stuck with cactus. With a little planning, your yard can be colorful and beautiful.

Instructions

- 1
  Zone the small yard into three different areas based on water necessity: very low water use, low water use and moderate water use. This helps with plant placement.
- 2
  Establish landscape plants with very low-water use in the driest areas of the yard. Plants that thrive on very little water include agave, palo verde and ocotillo -- and these three plants also add color to the yard.
- 3
  Choose plants that fit best with low water use. Water this area from time to time, in addition to rainfall. Add color to the yard with groundcover like lamb's ears or snow in summer. Additional drought-resistant plants include yellow alyssum, Shasta daisies and lavender.
- 4
  Decorate walkways or up against the home using ornamental grass, which are hardy and require little water. Ideal varieties include prairie dropseed, Elijah Blue fescue and feather reed.
- 5
  Plant an area in the yard that requires more water than the rest of the landscaping, to preserve water. This spot is ideal for a vegetable garden, floral patch or recreational area. Add color to the home by planting yellow cups, Arizona poppy, desert pincushion or brittlebush.

Use of Pavers in Backyard Landscaping

Types of Chain Saws

Overall Landscape Planning