Xeriscaping: Backyard Landscape Design With Artificial Grass

Keeping a lush green lawn in Austin can be a constant battle against the scorching sun and unpredictable rainfall. Not only does it require significant time and effort, but it also guzzles up precious water resources. Xeriscaping offers a water-wise solution for backyard design with artificial grass in place of natural turf.

What Is Xeriscaping?

Xeriscaping is a way of designing your yard or garden to use as little water as possible.

Specifically, it replaces thirsty lawns with visually appealing combinations of hardscape, rocks, pebbles, drought-resistant grasses, cacti, succulents, and hardy shrubs that need little additional water to thrive.

Why Consider Xeriscaping With Artificial Grass?

Combining xeriscaping with Austin artificial grass .

• VersatilityArtificial grass provides a clean, manicured look that harmonizes with various xeriscaping styles. It can be used as a unifying element, creating smooth transitions between hardscaping, gravel areas, and drought-tolerant plantings.

• Accentuating Shapes and TexturesThe uniform appearance of artificial grass acts as a beautiful backdrop to highlight the unique colors, textures, and sculptural forms of desert plants like cacti, succulents, or ornamental grasses. It contrasts nicely with rock features and natural pathways.

• Creating Playful ZonesArtificial grass provides a soft, durable surface for play areas seamlessly integrated into a xeriscape design. This adds kid-friendly appeal within the overall water-conscious landscape.

• Modern AppealXeriscaping with artificial grass creates a sleek, contemporary aesthetic.  It’s a great option for minimalist designs or smaller urban spaces where a traditional lawn isn’t practical.

• Addressing Problem AreasArtificial grass can replace natural grass in shady spots or areas with poor soil.  This gives your xeriscape a polished look in places where drought-resistant plants can’t thrive.

Xeriscaping Tips for an Artificial Grass Yard

There’s a misconception that xeriscapes are just rocks and cacti, but they can actually be incredibly diverse. And when you add artificial grass, you can create an amazing space that’s just as beautiful and functional as a traditional lawn.

Get started with these artificial turf backyard ideas for your very own xeriscape:

Planning & Design

• Zoning: Divide your space into distinct zones based on their water needs. The artificial grass will be your low water zone. Define medium-water zones for your most striking drought-tolerant plants, and no-water zones for areas dominated by hardscaping.

• Focal Points: Use statement plants to draw the eye. Think striking agaves, sculptural yuccas, or colorful succulents. Place them strategically within or on the border of the artificial grass area.

• Hardscaping Harmony: Create visual interest with a blend of hardscaping materials such as gravel, river stones, flagstone pavers, or decomposed granite. Use these hardscaping elements to provide contrast and texture with the artificial grass.

 

Plant Selection

• • Embrace Drought Tolerance

Focus primarily on true xeric plants that require minimal watering, such as:

• • Cacti: These iconic symbols of arid landscapes offer a wide range of shapes, sizes, and even dazzling blooms. Consider varieties like the classic prickly pear or the delicate lace cactus. 
  • Succulents: The world of succulents is incredibly diverse. Explore options like the sculptural Manfreda (Texas Tuberose) with its dramatic flowering stalk or the colorful rosettes of various echeverias.
  • Drought-Tolerant Shrubs: These provide a foundational structure to your xeriscape. Look for varieties like the silvery Texas sage (Cenizo) with its stunning purple blooms or the evergreen agarita (Mahonia trifoliolata) with edible berries.

• Varying Textures & Colors
  Choose plants with diverse shapes, textures, and subtle color variations. This will add depth and visual interest to complement the uniform green of the turf.For instance, pair the soft, fluffy blooms of Lindheimer muhly with the bold forms of prickly pear cacti and Manfreda. Mix spiky yuccas with the rounded, fleshy leaves of certain echeverias.

• Consider Blooms Include a few drought-tolerant blooming plants to add pops of color throughout the seasons.Select a mix of plants that bloom at different times of the year such as Mexican bird of paradise (spring), blackfoot daisy (summer), or Gregg’s mistflower (fall). These will bring vibrant color to your xeriscape while still conserving water.

Additional Tips for Artificial Grass Xeriscapes

• While artificial grass is low-maintenance, xeriscapes still require upkeep. Occasionally remove any debris from the turf and keep drought-tolerant plants pruned and tidy.

• Use natural mulch like bark chips or crushed rock in planting beds to deter weeds, retain moisture in the soil, and regulate soil temperature.

• Consider incorporating pergolas or shade sails for hot areas, creating comfortable spaces to enjoy your yard and providing some relief for plants during intense sun.

• Add a water feature like a small fountain or a birdbath to attract beneficial insects and birds.

Learn More

The combination of artificial grass and xeriscaping offers the best of both worlds: a beautiful, functional yard with significantly reduced water needs. 

Interested in making the switch? Contact our team today. We specialize in artificial grass and xeriscaping that goes beyond the ordinary. Get started by calling us at 346-250-4797 or sending us a message today.