Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
Water-wise yards that look good all year, use less water, and take less work to maintain.
Less Water, Less Mowing, More Curb Appeal
A thirsty lawn is often the most expensive part of a yard to keep up, and the part people use the least. We replace it with drought-tolerant planting, stone, decomposed granite, and efficient drip irrigation, so your yard looks finished and cared for with a lot less water and work.
Lawn Replacement
Replace thirsty lawn with planting, stone, turf, or a mix that fits how you use the yard.
Native & Drought-Tolerant Plants
Plants suited to the East Bay climate, grouped by water needs.
Decomposed Granite & Paths
DG, gravel, and stepping-stone paths that let water soak in.
Boulders & Rock
Boulders, cobble, and decorative rock that add structure all year.
Dry Creek Beds
River-rock channels that look natural and carry rainwater away.
Drip Irrigation
Drip lines that water at the roots instead of spraying walls and walkways.
Built to Stay Low Maintenance
A low-water yard only stays low maintenance if the groundwork is right. Good soil preparation, the right top cover, and drip irrigation make the difference.
- Soil rototilled about 6 inches deep, with conditioner blended in where specified
- About 2 inches of bark on beds, with pre-emergent weed control where appropriate
- No weed fabric under bark, so mulch can break down into the soil
- Drip and irrigation zones separated by sun, shade, and plant needs
See all of our construction standards on our How We Build page.
Water-Wise Yards We Have Built
Pair it with synthetic turf or drip irrigation, or see our completed projects.
What Affects the Cost
Every yard is different, so we price each project after a site visit. Your proposal lays out options so you can choose what matters most.
Drought-Tolerant FAQs
Will a drought-tolerant yard look bare?
It should not. A good design uses layers of plants, stone, and paths so the yard looks full and finished, not like gravel and a few shrubs.
Do drought-tolerant plants need water?
Yes, especially while they get established. Once rooted, they need far less water than a lawn, and drip irrigation keeps watering efficient.
Do you put weed fabric under bark?
Generally no. Fabric under bark can get slippery and keeps composted bark from feeding the soil. We use pre-emergent weed control where appropriate instead.
Can you help pick plants?
Yes. We design the planting plan around your yard and style, and we go into specific plant selections once the project is moving forward.