Xeriscaping in Utah: Best Materials for a Low-Maintenance Yard

Utah’s dry climate and ongoing water restrictions have many homeowners looking for smarter, more sustainable landscaping options. Xeriscaping—a style of landscaping designed to reduce or eliminate the need for irrigation—is the perfect solution.

At TDS, we help Utah residents transform their yards into beautiful, water-wise spaces with the right low water landscaping materials. Here’s what to consider when planning your own xeriscape project.

---

Why Xeriscaping Works in Utah

With hot, dry summers and limited rainfall, Utah’s climate naturally supports plants and materials that require little water. Xeriscaping helps you:

• Reduce water bills by up to 60%

• Spend less time on maintenance

• Use materials that withstand Utah’s heat and seasonal changes

• Create a landscape that’s both functional and visually stunning

---

Best Materials for Utah Xeriscaping

1. Decorative Rock & Gravel

Best for: Ground cover, walkways, and accent areas

Rock is a durable, long-lasting alternative to grass. Popular choices include:

• River rock for a natural, polished look

• Crushed rock for paths and driveways

• Lava rock for bold contrast in garden beds

TDS Tip: Use decorative gravel as mulch around drought-tolerant plants—it prevents evaporation and keeps weeds down.

---

2. Mulch

Best for: Plant beds, tree rings, and erosion control

Mulch isn’t just for traditional gardens—it works beautifully in xeriscaping to:

• Retain soil moisture

• Protect plant roots from heat and cold

• Add texture and color contrast

Choose bark or shredded wood mulch for a softer, more organic look that still fits a drought-resistant landscaping plan.

---

3. Native and Drought-Tolerant Plants

Best for: Filling space with color and variety

Utah-native plants thrive in local soil and weather conditions without extra watering. Consider:

• Yarrow

• Russian sage

• Penstemon

• Blue grama grass

TDS Tip: Group plants by water needs so your irrigation can be minimal and efficient.

---

4. Boulders and Accent Stones

Best for: Visual focal points and structural definition

Large stones add height, texture, and drama to a xeriscape design. They also help break up long stretches of gravel or mulch.

---

5. Topsoil for Planting Zones

Best for: Amending Utah’s clay-heavy soil

Even in xeriscapes, planting areas benefit from enriched soil. Adding high-quality topsoil helps roots establish faster, even for drought-tolerant plants.

---

TDS Delivers the Materials You Need

At TDS, we supply and deliver all the essentials for xeriscaping in Utah:

• Decorative rock & gravel

• Bark and wood mulch

• Screened topsoil

• Custom soil blends for planting zones

Whether you’re replacing a water-hungry lawn or building a brand-new xeriscape, our team will help you choose the right low water landscaping materials for your project.

---

Start Your Utah Xeriscape Today

Contact TDS to schedule your material delivery and take the first step toward a beautiful, drought-resistant yard.