Water-wise Landscape Design Series

Creating a beautiful, functional, and water-wise landscape can be an exciting endeavor. However, it can also be intimidating and perhaps overwhelming. This “Water-wise Landscape Design” fact sheet series is part of Utah State University (USU) Extension’s Water-wise Landscaping Series that introduces the principles and tools needed to design, install, and maintain a water-wise landscape. These fact sheets focuses on the process of landscape design by establishing a series of steps that will help you understand your landscape, identify challenges and opportunities, generate creative ideas, and finally develop viable solutions.

Why Water-wise?

Water remains one of the most precious resources in Utah. As the population grows and Utah’s climate gets drier, our water resources will continue to be stretched. According to the Utah Geological Survey, in 2015, Utahns used an average of 178 gallons of domestic water per person per day, making Utahn’s the second-highest water users among all 50 states. Furthermore, the Utah Division of Water Resources estimates that 60% of our culinary water is being used for exterior irrigation. Creating more water-wise landscapes represents an exciting water conservation opportunity, enlisting our personal landscapes in the conservation effort while celebrating the unique beauty and aesthetic of the Intermountain West. Water conservation does not have to mean a barren, uninviting landscape. However, it does mean taking the time and extra consideration necessary to understand and work with the nuances of the existing landscape and design with some additional considerations.

What Is a Water-wise Landscape?

It is important to remember that a water-wise landscape does not have to be a “zero-scape” landscape. A water-wise landscape is one that is beautiful, lush, and colorful, adds to the value of a home, invites local wildlife, and requires minimal external inputs and maintenance. A water-wise landscape not only saves water but also saves you money.

This series of fact sheets is intended to help reframe your understanding of what a water-wise landscape can be, and teach you how to:

  • Create a landscape where low water native and adapted plants create rich swaths of vibrant colors and textures.
  • Place turf strategically to minimize maintenance and water use.
  • Design and implement an inviting, functional, and beautiful landscape.

How to Implement Water-wise (Efficient) Landscaping

Maintaining a Water-wise Landscape

When considering the water shortages facing the Intermountain West, the extra training effort is worth the long-term impacts in terms of both water conservation and fewer maintenance hours.