Desert landscaping requires a different approach than traditional landscape design.
There are many desert environments in the United States, such as the Sonoran desert in California and Arizona; Mojave desert in Nevada, Utah and California; Great Basin Desert in the Nevada, Utah, Idaho and Oregon; and the Chihuahuan desert in West Texas. Although these desert regions have their own qualities and eccentricities, all of them require basic desert landscaping techniques. Landscaping in the desert does not have to be difficult, as long as landscapers remember a few basic facts.
Soil
Desert soil is not nutrient rich. It tends to be sandy and very fine and is often composed of clay, gypsum and salt. Desert soils also tend to be alkaline, meaning that they have a high pH. These qualities make desert soil difficult to irrigate. Landscaping Ideas Online recommends planting plants that need similar water requirements close together, so they can all be irrigated at once without waterlogging or underwatering other plants.
Climate
The desert climate can be very harsh. In the Sonoran desert, temperatures can reach beyond 120 degrees F. The air also tends to be quite dry, which causes soil to dry faster than other biomes. Landscapers should be sure to take this climate into consideration, particularly when planting plants that need partial or full shade. Landscapers might also consider using desert trees, such as mesquite trees, to provide shade for plants and flowers.
Plants
Ensure plant survival by using native plants. Native plants have adapted to desert soil and sun and often require very little maintenance. Examples of desert plants include cacti, succulents, mesquite, desert willow and a variety of wildflowers. Native plants will also attract helpful insects and animals, such as bees and hummingbirds.
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