As Northern Arizona kids head back to school, that “new beginnings” feeling is contagious. Why not plan a front yard refresh to boost your curb appeal and lift your spirits? Here are some ideas for creative, sustainable front yard improvements for the Arizona landscape and climate.
X is for Xeriscaping
When refreshing your lawn and landscaping, a water-wise mindset goes a long way toward protecting the beautiful natural environment and native plants around your home. It also lowers your energy costs and usage. Xeriscaping (“dry-landscaping”) is an approach to landscape design and upkeep that’s ideal for dry, arid climates.
Need some xeriscaping tips for your back-to-school yard refresh? Here’s what we suggest:
- Focus on water-wise plants: ornamental grasses, cacti, succulents, agave, and yucca plants are some of our favorites. Drought-tolerant plants (Texas Sage, Desert Willow, and Bougainvillea) stay beautiful and fresh-looking, even under very dry conditions.
- Reduce lawn grasses: Natural lawns in Arizona demand a lot of water. If you love the lush, green look, but don’t love how much watering and upkeep you have to do, installing artificial turf could make a big difference.
- Incorporate hardscapes: Hardscapes add aesthetic appeal to your front yard refresh, and they can significantly improve drainage. There are lots of possibilities: gravel paths, decorative rocks, or simple stone barriers can really transform your yard for the better.
- Try container gardening: Container gardening is one of the simplest front yard upgrades, and a fun way to let your creativity shine. There are so many ways to use containers, pots, boxes, and more to spotlight your favorite plants and flowers. Container gardens also use less water compared to plants and grasses that are spread out over a large area.
A is for Accents
You don’t need to overhaul your lawn or landscape design to make it look great. Simple accents will go a long way. How about a birdbath, or a small water feature, to help your yard reflect your personality and taste? You can also add little pops of color by bringing in some drought-tolerant flowering plants. Verbena, penstemons, and desert marigolds all turn heads and bring smiles.
H (and S) are for Health and Safety
No one wants to start the school year off on the wrong foot. That’s especially true if you’re budgeting and planning for a front yard refresh. If you’re adding any new elements or features, consider improving landscape lighting to better acclimate visitors to the new terrain and keep everyone safe. Make sure weed control is on your back-to-school yard refresh checklist, too. Late summer to early fall is the ideal time to apply pre-emergent and keep out those invasive Arizona winter weeds.
P is for Professionals
You have enough on your plate with all the back-to-school errands and deadlines. Treat yourself and your family to a front yard refresh: let the pros at Zebrascapes take care of all the details. We make every effort to realize your vision and keep your yard beautiful. We know how to ensure proper soil drainage and aeration, minimize water waste, and support healthy plant growth. Whether you just want to add a few plants, or you’ve got some big ideas for your front yard, we can make them happen. Contact our Northern Arizona landscapers today to discuss your project and get your yard looking its best.