Across Colorado, people’s attitudes toward landscaping are shifting. With water conservation becoming more critical and climate conditions becoming less predictable, homeowners and property managers are looking for efficient ways to care for their outdoor spaces. One solution gaining traction is xeriscaping, a landscaping approach designed to thrive with minimal irrigation.
At Westside Grounds, we help homeowners rethink traditional yards by designing water-efficient, low-maintenance landscapes that thrive in Colorado’s dry climate. With over 25 years of experience, our team has seen firsthand how xeriscaping transforms outdoor spaces into beautiful, sustainable environments that require far less watering, mowing, and upkeep.
In this guide, we’ll explain what xeriscaping is and why it’s gaining popularity.
What Is Xeriscaping?
Xeriscaping is a landscaping method focused on reducing or eliminating the need for supplemental water from irrigation. Unlike traditional landscaping, which often relies on high-water-demand lawns and non-native plants, xeriscape landscaping uses drought-tolerant plants, efficient irrigation systems, and soil-enhancing techniques to conserve water while creating attractive, functional outdoor spaces.
Xeriscaping is not just “rock and cactus” landscaping. It can include vibrant native flowers, decorative grasses, shade trees, and carefully placed mulch or stone. A well-designed xeriscape can look lush and welcoming without the heavy watering schedule.
Why Is Xeriscape Landscaping Gaining Popularity?
More Colorado homeowners are rethinking the traditional green lawn, not just because of water restrictions. Xeriscaping offers an innovative, long-term alternative that conserves resources, reduces maintenance, supports native ecosystems, and better adapts to the region’s extreme weather. Both practical needs and a growing awareness of sustainability fuel the growing interest in xeriscape landscaping.
Here are the top reasons why xeriscaping is quickly becoming the go-to choice for modern Colorado landscapes.
Supports Water Conservation
Colorado’s dry climate and limited water supply make traditional lawns difficult and expensive to maintain. Xeriscaping dramatically reduces the need for irrigation by using drought-tolerant plants, efficient watering systems, and mulch to retain moisture. So xeriscaping means fewer sprinklers, less runoff, and a healthy lawn with minimal water use.
Lowers Water Bills
With irrigation often making up a significant portion of household water usage, switching to a xeriscape can reduce monthly utility costs. Over time, the savings can offset the initial investment in new landscaping. For homeowners looking to cut expenses without sacrificing style, xeriscaping offers a low-maintenance, budget-friendly solution.
Requires Less Maintenance
A traditional lawn needs constant mowing, fertilizing, edging, and watering. A xeriscape landscape is designed for simplicity. Native and drought-resistant plants grow more slowly, need less pruning, and are far more self-sufficient. With fewer weeds and better moisture retention, xeriscapes give you more time to enjoy your yard and less time working on it.
Adapts to Local Climate
Parker, Denver, and other parts of Colorado experience wild temperature swings, dry air, and intense sun. Many traditional turf grasses and imported plants aren’t built for these extremes. Xeriscaping uses plants adapted to the region, so your landscape is more likely to thrive without special treatment, even during droughts or sudden frosts.
Retains Resilience During Drought and Restrictions
When cities issue watering restrictions, traditional lawns suffer quickly. A xeriscape landscape is built to survive with minimal water, keeping its color, shape, and appeal even during dry spells. This drought resilience means peace of mind during the hottest parts of the year.
Looks Visually Unique
Xeriscaping doesn’t follow a one-size-fits-all formula. It allows for more design flexibility, ranging from native wildflowers to ornamental grasses, river rock, pathways, boulders, and shaded sitting areas. A well-designed xeriscape can reflect your personality more than a uniform lawn ever could and often looks more dynamic across the seasons.
Supports Local Pollinators and Wildlife
Many xeriscape plants provide nectar and shelter for bees, butterflies, and birds. Native plants support local ecosystems in ways turf grass cannot. Choosing xeriscaping is an easy way to contribute to biodiversity without sacrificing curb appeal.
Long-Term Cost Savings
Although a xeriscape may cost more to install upfront, the reduced water, fertilizer, equipment, and labor costs pay off in the long run. Throughout several seasons, homeowners often can spend less money and time maintaining a xeriscaped yard than a traditional one.
Reduces Need for Chemical Treatments
Traditional lawns often require herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers to stay green and weed-free. Xeriscape landscaping relies on hardy plants that naturally resist pests and disease. This choice reduces the need for chemicals, which is better for children, pets, and the environment.
Adds Property Value
As more buyers look for sustainable, low-maintenance features in a home, a professionally designed xeriscape can boost curb appeal and increase marketability. A beautiful, water-efficient landscape can be a significant selling point, especially in areas like Colorado, where water-smart living is becoming the norm.
Our Xeriscape Process
When you choose Westside Grounds for your xeriscaping project, we will start with an in-person consultation to understand your goals and evaluate the site’s existing conditions. From that, our team creates a landscape plan that includes plant selections, irrigation strategy, soil prep, and layout.
Everything will be designed around your budget, aesthetic preferences, and property type. We handle everything from soil grading, planting, mulching, to installing rock or hardscape features. Our team works efficiently and respectfully to bring your vision to life.
Ready to Make the Switch to a Xeriscape Landscape?
Whether you’re looking to replace your water-hungry lawn or design a brand-new sustainable landscape, xeriscaping is a smart step forward. Westside Grounds knows how to design, install, and maintain beautiful, low-water outdoor spaces that thrive in Colorado’s challenging climate.
We offer a full range of xeriscape services, including:
- Custom xeriscape landscape design;
- Drought-tolerant plant selection and installation;
- Native and pollinator-friendly garden planning;
- Soil improvement and compost amendment;
- Drip irrigation and low-flow watering systems;
- Mulch and decorative stone installation;
- Lawn removal and turf conversion;
- Gravel pathways, rock features, and hardscaping; and
- Seasonal maintenance for established xeriscapes.
You bring the vision, and we’ll bring the tools, commitment, and expertise to make it happen.Contact Westside Grounds today for a xeriscaping consultation and discover how low-maintenance landscaping can deliver high-impact curb appeal.