With 65% of Texas in varying degrees of drought conditions (as of April, 2018), it’s a safe bet that the condition of your landscape will depend on how drought tolerant your design is. Increasingly dry conditions have been predicted over the coming years, and you’ll want to make sure your landscape is prepared in advance.

When considering how best to prepare for long seasons of drought, consider the following:

1. Consult with a professional for plant selection.  Plants help to regulate temperature and humidity, protect your soil from erosion in addition to adding beauty to your property.  The right plants will also help to support pollinators and wildlife in your area. A professional will not only take this into consideration, they will also know how large shrubs will grow, and what plants will grow best on your property.  A properly trained landscape professional will understand how best to layer sizes and textures, what will grow best in your property’s soil conditions and climate, and help you choose the right colors and textures for your design.
2. Consider native plants for your design.  Plants that are adapted to your specific climate will need less water once established in your landscape.  
3. Adjust your mowing schedule.  Consult with your lawn care professional about how often and high you mow your lawn.  Frequency and height adjustments can go a long way when it comes to weathering an extended dry spell.  Find out what is optimal for your grass variety and adjust your schedule as needed.
4. Make sure your plants have enough nourishment.  Consider a soil test to check the pH balance of your soil, and consider composting to nourish your plants in a sustainable way.
5. Retain moisture through mulching.  Check with your landscape pro to find out what type of mulch is right for your property, and get the most attractive and effective mulch for your plants.  Mulching will help to retain water in your garden beds.
6. Make sure your irrigation system is on point.  Don’t let a small leak or pressure problem cause water (and money) waste in your yard.  Have your irrigation system checked yearly to ensure all zones are working properly.
7. Consider a water retention upgrade.  Updating your landscape design for water retention can be a great way to help your outdoor space.
8. Be smart about your irrigation.  An outdated irrigation system is going to waste water and money.  Updating to a smart irrigation system will allow your irrigation system to deliver the right moisture to the right areas.  A smart system can cut water usage up to 40%.

Taking the right steps now to have a more drought tolerant landscape will save you money in the long run.  Make sure you are doing everything you can to keep your outdoor spaces healthy and thriving during these drought years.  Contact ECO Irrigation & Landscaping today to start your landscaping project!