Maintaining a garden or landscaped yard in Nevada’s desert climate can present some unique challenges. With temperatures regularly exceeding 100 degrees in the summer months, it is important to understand the basics of desert landscaping- how to select plants, best soil practices, and ways to help your plants survive watering restrictions.
Many plants and trees commonly used in other parts of the country may not be suitable for Nevada’s hot, dry climate, so selecting the right plants for the climate is essential. Once selected, it is important to take into account the soil type in the area and use appropriate supplements to the soil, including calcium-rich amendments and organic matter like compost or mulch.
Homeowners in Nevada typically must adhere to state-imposed rules and regulations related to water usage. In order to ensure newly planted landscape projects are able to survive, it is important to take proactive measures to conserve water. Mulch and other organic matter should be placed around plants to help reduce evaporation. Implements such as underground watering systems, drip hoses, and watermisers can also help a gardener capture and reuse runoff water.
Drought-Tolerant Plant Varieties
One important step to successful desert landscaping projects is selecting plants and grass varieties that are both drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. Consider substituting more complicated high-maintenance plants such as Japanese maple and rose bushes with similarly attractive drought-tolerant substitutes, such as butterfly bush and various succulents.
Yucca, cactus, and crepe myrtle are some of the most common desert plants and are widely used for everything from ground cover to yard accents. These types of hardy desert plants are not only resilient and drought-tolerant, but can be used to great effect to create a low-maintenance and unique look in your landscape.
Desert Landscaping Tips
For homeowners in Nevada looking to spruce up their landscape with beautiful and low-maintenance plants, there are a few tips to help maximize their results:
• Research plant and grass varieties ahead of time. Not all plants listed as “drought-tolerant” are suitable for Nevada’s desert climate. Do research and find varieties that have been proven to work in the Nevada climate.
• Be prepared to invest in drought-tolerant plants. Drought-tolerant plants and grasses come with a higher sticker price than their high-maintenance counterparts, but require less money to maintain over time.
• Take into account the local climate. Different deserts feature different soil types and moisture conditions. In Nevada, soil is typically alkaline, meaning certain plants will do better than others. Understanding the local climate is key to designing a successful and low-maintenance garden.
Creating a Unique Landscape
- Consider featuring native Nevada plants in your landscape.
- Pay special attention to soil type and condition.
- Choose drought-tolerant plants and grass varieties.
- Take advantage of rock and gravel elements.
- Implement water-saving strategies.
Conclusion
Creating and maintaining a garden in Nevada’s desert climate can be a challenging endeavor. By understanding the local climate and soil type, and selecting the right plants for the area, homeowners can create beautiful and low-maintenance landscapes that will last for years to come.