Inexpensive Drought Tolerant Landscaping: How to Save Water and Money

In a world grappling with climate change and dwindling water resources, homeowners everywhere are looking for ways to create inexpensive drought-tolerant landscaping solutions. These landscapes not only conserve water but also lower water bills and promote biodiversity, all while enhancing the beauty of outdoor spaces. 

Read on for tips that help you design a low maintenance and drought-tolerant garden on a budget.

What is Drought-Tolerant Landscape Design?

A Bower & Branch 3D render of a drought tolerant landscape design plan

Drought-tolerant landscape design is a strategic approach to creating outdoor spaces that thrive in arid and water-scarce conditions. It encompasses a range of practices, techniques, and plant choices aimed at reducing water usage while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the landscape. At its core, drought-tolerant design emphasizes the efficient use of water resources, promoting sustainability and resilience.

By following inexpensive strategies, you can design a water-efficient garden that’s both eco-friendly and easy on the wallet. Let’s dig into some budget-friendly drought-tolerant landscaping tips for your yard!

Cost-Effective Ways to Create Drought-Tolerant Landscapes

A Bower & Branch front yard drought tolerant design

Designing an inexpensive drought-tolerant landscape doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few budget-friendly ideas:

• Native Plants: Native species require less water and maintenance, making them a smart choice for your landscape. You are less likely to have to replace them and they are more likely to thrive in your garden. 
• DIY Gravel Pathways: Instead of expensive hardscaping, use gravel or small stones, which can be purchased for around $30-$50 per ton, to create paths that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
• Repurposed Materials: Reuse items like old bricks, stones, or wood to create garden borders or plant beds. This helps cut costs and promotes sustainable landscaping.

Drought-Resistant vs. Drought-Tolerant Plants

Drought-resistant plants refer to species that have natural adaptations and characteristics that enable them to withstand prolonged periods of drought. These plants have inherent traits that make them naturally resilient to water scarcity.

Drought-tolerant plants, on the other hand, are species that can endure and persist in dry conditions but may not possess the same level of inherent resistance as drought-resistant plants. While they can tolerate drought to some extent, they may still benefit from occasional watering or require some level of care during extended dry periods.

Selecting Budget-Friendly Drought-Tolerant Plants

To find the best inexpensive drought-tolerant plants for your yard, focus on native plants and low-maintenance species. These plants have deep root systems that allow them to access water stored in lower soil layers, reducing the need for frequent watering. Succulents, for example, store water in their leaves, making them ideal for dry conditions.

A few examples of budget-friendly drought-tolerant plants include:

• Agave
• Yucca
• Lavender
• Ornamental grasses
• Mediterranean herbs like rosemary and thyme
• Native wildflowers

These plants require less supplemental watering, making them ideal choices for inexpensive drought-tolerant landscaping.

Budget-Friendly Drought-Tolerant Trees

Incorporating drought-tolerant trees into your landscape can provide shade, reduce energy costs, and enhance the overall beauty of your yard. Many trees are not only water-efficient but also relatively inexpensive to plant and maintain. Native trees are a great choice, as they are adapted to your region’s specific climate conditions and typically require less water once established. There are also many gardening practices you can maintain to help trees during a particularly dry period. 

Employ Smart Gardening Practices

To have a successful and cost-effective drought-tolerant landscape, here are some smart gardening practices you can employ.

Efficient Irrigation Systems

One of the most cost-effective ways to implement inexpensive drought-tolerant landscaping is by using efficient irrigation systems like DIY drip irrigation. These systems are affordable to set up and help reduce water waste. By avoiding inefficient watering methods like overhead sprinklers, you can deliver water directly to the roots of plants, reducing water loss and maximizing its absorption.

Mulch for Moisture Retention

Apply a layer of organic mulch around plants to help retain soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. This reduces the need for frequent watering and promotes healthier plant growth. You can even use free mulch materials like leaves, grass clippings, or compost for a low-cost solution.

Amended Soil

Enhance the soil's water-holding capacity by adding organic matter such as compost. This improves soil structure, increases its ability to retain moisture, and promotes the development of robust root systems, helping your plants thrive with less water.

Group Plants with Similar Water Needs

Grouping plants with similar water requirements together allows for more efficient watering, which helps you save both water and money. This ensures that each plant receives the appropriate amount of water without overwatering or underwatering certain areas.

Remove Your Grass

While removing grass may seem like a drastic measure, traditional lawns require a lot of maintenance, water, and resources. Replacing grass with a gravel or rock garden, native ground cover, or a pollinator garden can save water and reduce maintenance costs. These alternatives are key components of inexpensive drought-tolerant landscaping.

Can Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Be Implemented Anywhere in the US?

Drought-tolerant landscaping is gaining popularity in regions across the United States, especially in areas that experience water scarcity or frequent drought conditions, such as the Southwest, Texas, and Mountain regions. Even in wetter areas like Florida, certain regions face water scarcity, and drought-tolerant designs are becoming more popular.

With awareness of water conservation growing, inexpensive drought-tolerant landscaping can be embraced in almost any region, helping homeowners reduce water usage and create resilient landscapes.

By carefully selecting the right plants, using smart gardening practices, and implementing cost-effective solutions, you can enjoy an inexpensive drought-tolerant landscape that conserves water and enhances the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. With thoughtful planning, your landscape can be a harmonious, low-maintenance oasis that thrives even in dry conditions.