Fast fact: Replacing 1,000 sq ft of bluegrass with xeriscape can save up to 22,000 gallons of water per year in Colorado Springs.
What Is Xeriscaping?
Xeriscaping is a landscape approach that reduces—or eliminates—the need for supplemental irrigation. Instead of thirsty turf, we combine native and drought‑tolerant plants, strategic hardscape, and efficient drip systems to create color‑rich, pollinator‑friendly yards.
7 Keys to Successful Xeriscape Design
- Plan & Zone
Divide your yard into hydro‑zones: Oasis (high‑use areas near the house), Transition (low‑water beds), and Arid (native plant islands). Sketch paths, patios, and planting pockets. - Improve Soil
Most Front Range soils are clayey. Till in 2–3 inches of compost to boost drainage and root growth. - Choose Colorado‑Smart Plants Category Water Use Top Picks Trees Low Bur Oak, Austrian Pine Shrubs Low Pawnee Buttes Sand Cherry, Rabbitbrush Perennials Very Low Rocky Mountain Penstemon, Orange Carpet Hummingbird Trumpet Grasses Very Low Blue Grama, Blonde Ambition Muhly
- Group by Water Needs
Plant like with like to avoid over‑watering tough natives. - Mulch Deeply
3 inches of shredded cedar or rock mulch reduces evaporation and weeds. - Install Drip Irrigation
Inline drip and pressure‑regulated emitters deliver water exactly where needed—no overspray. - Maintain Smartly
Spring pruning, mid‑summer spot checks for emitter clogs, and fall cut‑back keep plants healthy.
Water‑Wise Hardscape Ideas
- Dry Creek Beds – Channel stormwater away while adding texture.
- Flagstone Pathways – Permeable joints allow runoff to soak in.
- Boulder Accents – Low‑maintenance focal points that echo the Rockies.
- Metal Edging – Clean lines that separate rock mulch from beds.
See these elements in action on our Landscaping & Outdoor Living page.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Season | Task |
|---|---|
| Early Spring | Deep‑water trees; apply compost and fresh mulch. |
| Late Spring | Check drip emitters; plant perennials before heat. |
| Summer | Spot‑water new transplants; remove spent blooms. |
| Fall | Cut back grasses to 8″; add winter mulch around roots. |
| Winter | Water evergreens during warm spells; inspect hardscape for heave. |
Rebates & Resources
- Colorado Springs Utilities offers turf‑to‑xeriscape rebates up to $2 per sq ft.
- Free Xeriscape Garden Tours every June—details at the HBA of Colorado Springs.
- Download CSU’s Xeriscape Plant Guide (PDF) for a full plant list.