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Xeriscaping Costs 2024

Xeriscaping costs in Arizona can vary depending on several factors, but here’s a general breakdown to give you an idea:

  • Per Square Foot: This is a common way to estimate costs and typically ranges from $5 to $20 per square foot. A larger project will obviously cost more in total, but the price per square foot might go down slightly for bigger areas.

  • Materials: Plants, mulch, rocks, gravel, and edging all contribute to the cost. Here’s a tip: native, drought-tolerant plants are typically more expensive upfront but require less water in the long run, saving you money on your water bill.

  • Labor: Hiring a professional landscaper will add to the cost, but they can design and install a water-efficient xeriscape that meets your needs and budget. Expect to pay $50 to $100 per hour for landscaping services.

  • Additional Features: If you want fancy stuff like irrigation systems, lighting, or pathways, that will also increase the cost.

Here are some average costs to give you a ballpark figure:

  • 500 sq ft: $2,500 – $10,000
  • 1,000 sq ft: $5,000 – $20,000
  • 1,500 sq ft: $7,500 – $30,000

Saving on Xeriscaping:

  • DIY some work: If you’re handy, you can save money by removing old plants and installing mulch yourself.
  • Choose low-cost materials: Look for native plants readily available in your area and consider recycled materials like rocks and gravel.
  • Get multiple quotes: Compare prices from several landscapers before making a decision.
  • Rebates: Many cities and water districts in Arizona offer rebates for xeriscaping. Check with your local government to see if you qualify.

Best Materials For Xeriscaping

The best materials for xeriscaping will depend on a number of factors, including your climate, soil conditions, and desired aesthetics. However, some general principles apply to all xeriscapes:

  • Drought-tolerant plants: These are plants that have adapted to survive with little water. They typically have deep root systems that can access water stored deep in the soil, and leaves that are coated with a waxy layer to help retain moisture. Some examples of drought-tolerant plants that are popular in xeriscapes include cacti, succulents, ornamental grasses, and native wildflowers.

  • Mulch: Mulch is a layer of material that is applied to the surface of the soil. It helps to conserve water by reducing evaporation, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches, such as wood chips or bark, also decompose over time and add nutrients to the soil. Inorganic mulches, such as gravel or rocks, are less likely to decompose and may reflect heat back up onto the soil, so they may not be the best choice for all climates.

  • Rocks and gravel: Rocks and gravel can be used to create paths, patios, and other hardscape features in a xeriscape. They also help to conserve water by reducing the amount of soil that needs to be irrigated. However, it’s important to choose rocks and gravel in light colors, as dark-colored rocks can absorb heat and make the surrounding area hotter.

Here are some additional tips for choosing materials for your xeriscape:

  • Consider the size and scale of your yard. When choosing plants, rocks, and other materials, be sure to consider the size of your yard. Large plants and rocks can overwhelm a small space, while small plants and rocks may be lost in a large space.
  • Think about your maintenance needs. Xeriscapes are designed to be low-maintenance, but there will still be some maintenance required. Choose plants that are relatively easy to care for and that don’t require a lot of water.
  • Don’t forget about aesthetics. Your xeriscape should be both beautiful and functional. Choose plants, rocks, and other materials that you find appealing and that complement the style of your home.

If you are interested in increasing the beauty of your landscape by buying desert plants, stop by our convenient location at 33840 N. Cave Creek Rd., in Cave Creek. For customers interested in our landscaping services, give us a call at (480) 488-9455 to schedule a visit to your home.

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Top Xeriscaping Ideas 2024

Xeriscape Ideas

Find some of the best xeriscaping ideas for your yard right here!

Cottage Gardens

Traditional cottage gardens feature plants in close proximity. This is done by design to eliminate any areas where water could possibly be wasted. Additionally, most classic cottage flowers are drought-resistant and can experience a full three seasons of color.

Some flowers that will light up your landscape include iris, Sedum, Heuchera and Dianthus. All of these are very colorful and easy to care for. Deadheading spent blooms will help to conserve moisture.

Succulents In Containers

Yes, container gardening can be tricky for xeriscape gardeners because these plants will need plenty of water. Well, the solution is pretty simple: only use succulents! Succulents do not need a lot of water, they simply require sunshine.

Terra cotta pots are ideal because they help retain some moisture. Of course, you can choose ceramic, clay or resin pots of any style for your garden. The ability to move these containers around will give you a lot of flexibility, design-wise.

Use Native Plants

The good news is you do not have to live in a dry climate to make your xeriscaping a success. Xeriscaping simply requires using plants that thrive with the typical rainfall they experience.

For a place like Arizona, that means plants that deal well with a dry and arid climate. Finding plants that thrive in your area is essential since this means less watering and maintenance for you.

Cacti

Follow The Sun

Your yard will undoubtedly tell you what thrives in the area. Start by grouping plants together based on their sunshine needs. Pay attention to sunlight and shade patterns throughout the day. This will ensure that your foliage doesn’t dry out or rot.

A good rule of thumb is to place plants that need lots of sunlight on the western side of the yard. These plants will then bask in the rays for the majority of the day.

Pine Bark Mulch

As we all know mulch is very effective for conserving moisture. Some mulches will contain herbicides or pesticides which aren’t goof for wildlife or gardeners.

Opt for natural mulch options like pine bark mulch instead. The shredded form of pine bark mulch covers large areas and looks great throughout the seasons.

Mulch

Rock Gardens

You are already halfway to creating a xeriscaped garden if you already have rock walls or terraces on your property. Rocks that are placed closely together will allow moisture to stay in place longer.

There are also many ground covers and low growing plants that can flourish in tight spaces without much soil. Allow them to spill over the rocks to create an aesthetically-pleasing addition to your yard.

Drought-Tolerant Annuals

A common misconception of annuals is they need lots of water. This is wrong! There are numerous annuals with minimal water requirements.

These annuals include Portulaca, cosmos, zinnias and marigolds. These plants will require more water if they are planted in pots, however.

Add Shade Trees

While sunshine is very important for xeriscaping, shade is too. Adding shade trees to the yard can cool the landscape by an estimated 20 degrees.

Cool plants are also hydrated plants. This creates more water savings. Shade, though, can mean more than just adding trees. Any tall structures added to the yard can help your plants thrive long-term.

Shade Trees

Desert Plants For Sale

If you are interested in increasing the beauty of your landscape by buying desert plants, stop by our convenient location at 33840 N. Cave Creek Rd., in Cave Creek. For customers interested in our landscaping services, give us a call at (480) 488-9455 to schedule a visit to your home.

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How To Water A Cactus

How To Water A Cactus

Follow our guide below if you are wondering how to properly water your cactus.

Water In Pots

Cacti planted in pots should be watered twice for the best results. Water the pots starting in four-foot sections. Make sure the water fills the pot at its maximum height. After everything is settled, go back and water the pot a second time to ensure a deep and even watering for the soil.

Water Deep And Slow

Watering the cactus deeply and slowly is a technique that works well when the plant is in the ground. Referred to as “deep soaking”, this technique involves a steady and slow dripping from a garden hose. The duration of the watering depends on the plant size, but it typically takes anywhere from 2-6 hours long.

Plant Sizes Count

A cacti that is larger in size and more established will not require watering as often as a smaller plant. The bigger the cactus is, the bigger its storage tank, where water is stored until needed. This means a plant with a larger tank can go quite a bit longer between watering. A larger Saguaro, for instance, can last a much longer time without water compared to a 1-gallon Gold Barrel cactus.

Temperatures Can Impact Watering

You will need to water a cactus more often when in a warmer climate. A cactus in a cooler climate will not require as much water.

Don’t Water Newly Planted Cactus

Plant any new cactus dry, while waiting on any watering. The proper time to water will be based on temperature. For instance, the cooler the climate, the longer you should wait on watering. It’s recommended to wait at least a week to give succulent roots enough time to heal before exposing them to water. All future watering should be done only when the soil becomes dry at the roots.

Cacti For Sale In Arizona

If you are interested in increasing the beauty of your landscape by buying desert rocks, stop by our convenient location at 33840 N. Cave Creek Rd., in Cave Creek, give us a call at (480) 488-9455 to schedule a visit to your home.

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Full Sun Succulents In Arizona

Full Sun Succulents In Arizona

Arizona homeowners need to choose the right plants for their landscaping needs in this hot and arid climate. These full sun succulents are best suited to thrive in the valley of the sun.

Top 7 Full Sun Succulents In Arizona

Selecting the best succulents and cacti for this hot region makes the landscape easier to care for and more enjoyable. The full sun succulents listed below continue to thrive in Arizona’s unique and sunny climate.

Agave Americana

The Agave Americana features big yellow flowers when it fully blooms. These can grow about 4 feet in width and 8 feet in height. On average, this succulent will live between 10-30 years.

Barrel Cactus

Multiple variations, such as the golden barrel cactus, are ideal for sunny and hot conditions. These cacti can grow brightly colored flowers throughout the year without expanding too much.

Candelilla

This is a popular full sun succulent since it grows some beautiful pink flowers, featuring waxy straight stems. Landscapers often choose this as a filler plant for full sun.

Hedgehog Cactus

The hedgehog cactus tends to stay smaller than most other succulents, topping out around 1 foot tall. Instead, this cactus enjoys sideway growth, measuring up to 3 feet in width.

Moroccan Mound

The Moroccan mound will give your landscape a uniquely textured plant. Featuring numerous stems, this plant can grow about 5 feet wide in constant sunlight.

Ocotillo

This visually stunning succulent is a great addition to any landscaping project. When Arizona experiences its rare and light rainfall, leaves will appear on the ocotillo, with red flowers blooming in springtime.

Prickly Pear Cactus

Prickly pear cacti will flower between the months of March and June. These prickly pear varieties are synonymous with Arizona landscape designs.

Succulents For Sale In Arizona

If you are interested in increasing the beauty of your landscape by buying desert rocks, stop by our convenient location at 33840 N. Cave Creek Rd., in Cave Creek, give us a call at (480) 488-9455 to schedule a visit to your home.

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Why Is My Cactus Turning Yellow?

Why Is My Cactus Turning Yellow?

If you are wondering why your cactus is turning yellow, we’re here to provide four possible explanations for the discoloration taking place.

Reasons A Cactus Turns Yellow

The four reasons why a cactus may become discolored include:

  • Cactus positioning.
  • Excess of light.
  • Lack of light.
  • Indoors.

Cactus Positioning

A cacti needs full exposure of sunlight for 6-8 hours each day to grow properly. In most cases, the southern aspects of the garden will receive the most sunlight on a daily basis. If you happen to move a cacti outdoors due to overwatering indoors, place the plant in a low light spot for the first few days. Then, gradually increase the amount of light it is exposed to after that trial period. Starting with low light, then increasing exposure over time gives the plant the best opportunity to adapt to its new environment.

Excess Of Light

The amount of light needed does depend on the type of cacti you have. You will be able to judge how much light is needed by monitoring any discoloration. Orange and yellow discolorations are clear indicators of too much light exposure. If a cactus is moved too close to light, it can become scorched. A scorched cacti will develop permanent rings atop the plant.

Lack Of Light

When placing your cacti in a certain spot, it is vital to recognize the signs of a plant not receiving enough light. Cacti that grows toward light sources needs to be moved closer to the light. Make sure to rotate the plant frequently so all sides receive a proper amount of sunlight.

Indoors

Cacti positioned close to windows indoor will begin yellowing when facing south. A net style curtain placed on the window can help decrease the yellowing progression. If any discoloration is noticed, it is suggested to move the cacti further away from the window.

Cactus For Sale In Arizona

If you are interested in increasing the beauty of your landscape by buying desert plants, stop by our convenient location at 33840 N. Cave Creek Rd., in Cave Creek. For customers interested in our landscaping services, give us a call at (480) 488-9455 to schedule a visit to your home.

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Why Is My Cactus Drooping?

Why Is My Cactus Drooping

Are you wondering why your cactus may be dropping? It could be caused by any of these four factors:

  • Sunlight Exposure.
  • Watering.
  • Pests.
  • Temperature Fluctuation.

All of these factors can strain the cactus, spurring odd behaviors.

Sunlight Exposure

A cactus thrives in a combination of heat and bright light. Whenever a cactus does not receive a proper proportion of both, it will begin to droop. If this happens during the wintertime, it could mean the cactus needs some artificial lighting. However, during the spring and summer month, an indoor cactus should grow just fine.

Watering

Watering a cactus properly can become a tad complicated. You will know when a cactus is dehydrated if it turns soft and begins looking violet or purple. If left untreated, the cactus can then wrinkle and the branches may droop. An overwatered cactus may show the exact signs, as well. Using potted soil can help ensure that the cactus has proper drainage space. A cactus will only need water if the top two inches of soil are completely dried out. You’ll be sure the cactus is receiving enough moisture when the water drains from the holes.

Pests

Woodlice and mealybugs are white and will take juice from your cactus. A large amount of feeding by pests will usually lead to drooping branches. Mealybugs can be easily killed by hand. You can also take a preventative measure by rinsing the cactus with a mixture of water and liquid dish soap. Direct sunlight exposure should be avoided during this time period. This could take a few efforts since repeated applications are needed to remove any mealybugs that may have recently hatched. Mealybugs love flourishing growth, so a removal could help fight the invasion.

Temperature Fluctuation

Most cactus plants are indigenous to frost-free environments, So, if the temperature plummets below freezing, damage may result. This will show as blackening cactus parts. In a few weeks, the blackened areas should dry out, resulting in some drooping. The damage will likely not be great if the freezing temperatures are brief. A good amount of sunlight, combined with water and warmth will help. When temperature falls, cactus growing in a garden should be covered. Potted cactus need to taken indoors.

Cactus For Sale In Arizona

If you are interested in increasing the beauty of your landscape by buying desert plants, stop by our convenient location at 33840 N. Cave Creek Rd., in Cave Creek. For customers interested in our landscaping services, give us a call at (480) 488-9455 to schedule a visit to your home.

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