Refer to local building codes and regulations for setbacks, height limits, and building permit requirements. On your tracing paper, outline zones of high and low water use. Remember, annual beds and lawns will require frequent watering, while shrubs and perennials are more drought tolerant. Arrange planting areas into a year-round structure that defines use areas, moderates sun and wind and screens unwanted views. Using a variety of plants, develop layers that tie areas together and create a lush feeling.
Shrubs also help define and enclose areas.
They add low-maintenance, year round interest with attractive flowers, foliage, fruits and colorful stems. Use evergreen shrubs, trees and grasses to create barriers and provide screens, structure and texture all year round. Now it's time to select specific plants for the areas you have outlined. Some water conservation tips . More information about our rebate programs .