Now for the most expensive option to replace your turf that still involves living plants - a xeriscape conversion. Not to be confused with the colloquial "ZEROscape" that people often use to reference when they turn lawn into a rock desert. A xeriscape garden uses low water use plants and can have a wide range of aesthetics. We can create one that looks like a mountain landscape with wildflowers or go more extreme with the architectural plants from the southwestern deserts. The overall cost of these garden conversions will depend on the size of plants you install, the density of plant material, and additional hardscape features, such as dry creek beds and boulders. I always recommend converting to drip irrigation when doing a xeriscape conversion. It adds to the expense, but this way you will maximize your water savings as drip irrigation can be up to 90% efficient. You also reduce unwanted weeds because you aren't watering the space between your new plants. Drip irrigation can be challenging to new users because you have to feel around the root ball of the plant periodically to ensure the system hasn't clogged or broken, whereas it is fairly easy to see if your spray irrigation is functional. I don't recommend installing plant material without any irrigation system. Even though there are many native varieties that will not need irrigation upon establishment, irrigation is critical during the establishment period to make sure you don't lose your investment. Irrigation systems are also crucial to keeping your plants healthy and stable during extended dry spells. There is a big difference in surviving vs. thriving when it comes to native plants and supplemental water is typically the determining factor.
The satellite image above shows the original front yard walkway with narrow stoop and small planting beds. The turfgrass lawn in the front has all but died out.
The design above features a conversion of a traditional front yard from a simple stoop and entry walkway with lawn to a xeriscape garden with additional plantings, parking spaces, and boulders.
Check out my final blog of this series to read about artificial turf as an option.
Contact me today if you'd like to discuss more on xeriscape conversions!
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