Large deciduous trees provide summer shade. Reduce grassy areas wherever possible. Grass is best separated from other plantings so that it can be watered separately. Place plants with high water requirements in areas that receive a lot of water naturally, like drainage ways, depressions, or at the bottom of hills. Slopes and hills should have a groundcover or spreading plant that keeps soil erosion down, but doesn't require mowing.
Place shrubs away from the house's foundation.
Frequent watering may damage its function. Use mulch in gardens, around shrubs and trees, in planting beds, and in borders. Mulches cover and cool the soil and discourage evaporation, weed growth, and erosion. Mulches also provide interesting textures that enhance the landscape. Organic mulches, like bark and wood chips, are the best.