Water Landscaping Apr 2026

Water landscaping—traditionally referring to the use of aesthetic water features—has shifted significantly toward (also known as xeriscaping) due to increasing drought conditions and water scarcity. This report covers the two primary interpretations: the design of physical water features and the movement toward sustainable, low-water outdoor spaces. 1. Water-Smart & Drought-Tolerant Landscaping

: Reclaiming water from sources like air-conditioning condensate or treated recycled water for irrigation is becoming a standard practice for large campuses and municipal areas to protect freshwater supplies. 2. Physical Water Features in Design Center for Water-Efficient Landscaping - USU Extension Water Landscaping

Modern reports emphasize reducing the "water footprint" of outdoor spaces through strategic design and plant selection. : Regional research, such as from the Center

: Regional research, such as from the Center for Water-Efficient Landscaping (CWEL) , identifies drought-tolerant species like fine fescue , Kentucky bluegrass hybrids , and native woody plants that thrive with minimal supplemental irrigation. limited turf areas

: Traditional turfgrass is one of the highest water consumers in residential landscapes. Replacing it with groundcovers, shrubs, or native grasses can save approximately 20 gallons of water per square foot annually.

: This approach uses seven core principles: planning and design, soil improvement, limited turf areas, mulching, low-water plants (often native), efficient irrigation, and proper maintenance.