Desert landscapes go by many names: Desert Gardens, Xeriscape, Southwest Landscapes, Low Water Landscapes and many more. In all of their forms, desert landscapes can be a great, low-water and low-maintenance solutions to home owner’s yard needs. Gravels and ground covers are often used along with boulders, hardscape and other low water plant selections.

Removing all of the grass in this Oceanside yard allowed this family to enjoy a water feature, dry river bed, garden bridge, fire pit, patio cover and other planted spaces. There will be a whole lot more color and a whole lot less water and maintenance. This peaceful yard (and its owner) is one of…