Landscaping can have an enormous impact on the curb appeal and value of your new or existing home.In the desert it can offer some unique and difficult challenges.It is important to understand the desert climate before you begin.
Keep in mind some of the beautiful plants you see in the large home improvements stores may not be suitable for your specific location.There is nothing more discouraging than to spend time, and money just to watch it all wither up and die.It maybe helpful to become friends with your local nursery,describe your yard and ask for their advise.They may suggest desert hardy plants such as Lantana, Oleander, or Mexican Bird of Paradise.
There are some subtle climate changes within our Cochella Valley which may make a certain plant unsuitable for your yard. For example plants such as Citrus, Bougainvillea, or Ficus will not thrive in Thermal, because of the slightly cooler nights, whereas in Indio they will flourish.Look at your neighbors yard to see what is doing well.
If you take a drive up Jefferson Ave. you will see an example of colorful lush desert landscaping at the Hideaway Development.This sort of plant life requires little water or maintenance, which is desert friendly. The use of trees can also be very valuable in landscaping your home.They provide privacy, or hide a less desirable area of your home or yard.The shade they offer especially in the summer months can be a huge help in the cooling cost of your home.A few favorites,which I’ve had success with are Mesquite,Cottonwood,and Eucalyptus. They all give shade and are fast growers.
Landscaping is something you can do yourself, if you’re on a budget.Unlike the complications of tile work or plumbing, anyone can man a shovel. If you are particularly handy, putting in your own irrigation system may not be as hard as you think. Drip emitters or bubblers can be far more water efficient than sprinklers.Water is delivered directly to the base of the plant and not lost in overspray. Often an irrigation store will provide a sprinkler plan if you buy your materials from them.So what are you waiting for, get out there and make your yard a thing of desert beauty.