Drought-Proofing Your Landscape

Put on a pair of sunglasses, then have a look at the US Drought Monitor. All that red, orange and yellow may get tough on the eyes, but it’s even tougher on the plants that depend on centuries of predictable rainfall patterns. 

Rising temperatures have led to a heavily parched atmosphere across many parts of the country, and much of the blame rests squarely on the shoulders of humanity. Reaching as far back as the 50s, evidence of aerosols, soot and other sun-blocking particles have accelerated the greenhouse effect and, ergo, drought frequency.

While there’s a much greater conversation to be had about our individual roles in reversing climate change over time (and we’re having it right here in our founder’s companion newsletter!), your yard needs you now. Like today.

Native landscaping is crucial to weathering a drought for more reasons than one. Schedule a consultation with us today and we’ll show you exactly where it’s relevant to your space. Here’s just a taste of what to consider:

The Right Plants

Plant selection is critical to keeping a healthy, flourishing landscape in the midst of a drought. That bountiful Kentucky Bluegrass daydream isn’t quite as realistic as Norman Rockwell made it out to be, requiring up to 1.5 inches of weekly rainfall to retain its health. Depending on where you’re located, fescues, little bluestem, creeping thyme and many other grass alternatives will do a better job of holding fast in the face of a drought. The key is often root depth: Native plants often build hardier, established root systems that can draw moisture from the farther reaches of the earth.

Healthier Soil

Better soil makes better plants—it’s often that simple. At its healthiest, soil is jam-packed with organic matter, nutrients and moisture that ultimately feed the plants above it. You can start simple by mulching and spreading the good stuff around. Though oftentimes in a drought, garden beds may call for a heavier overhaul and regular maintenance to account for months (or even years) of neglect.

Smarter Irrigation

Hardscaping and irrigation design is critical for rainwater capture when it does eventually come. Beyond essential drip irrigation systems, we’ve helped install several rainwater collection systems that feed landscapes while you’re off the clock. And every lawn is different: regrading or sloping your yard could help it retain more of the moisture it’d otherwise cast off.

So have us by for a look. Whether it’s any three of the above, or something different altogether, we’ll make sure your landscape hangs tough against drought.

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