The federal government has issued a water shortage declaration for Southern Nevada, and as many of us know, we have been in a severe drought since July 2021. This shows no signs of slowing and has caused Lake Mead to drop 150 feet. This shortage reduces the amount of water Southern Nevada is allowed to draw from the lake, which is a primary source of water for the region. Watering outdoor landscapes is one of the largest draws on the region’s water supply.
Many homeowners have converted their front and back yards to desert landscaping. The Southern Nevada Water Authority continues to rebate customers $3 per square foot of grass removed and replaced with desert landscaping—up to the first 10,000 square feet converted per property, per year. Beyond the first 10,000 feet, the SNWA will provide a rebate of $1.50 per square foot. The maximum award for any property in a fiscal year (July 1-June 30) is $300,000.
However, converting any landscaping to a drought-tolerant layout is not limited to just rocks. There are many water-efficient plants, flowers, and trees, along with a variety of annuals, vines, groundcover, perennials, cactus, ornamental grasses, and succulents that bloom throughout the hottest months.
This conversion is called xeriscaping, which basically means landscaping (an area) in a style that requires little or no irrigation.
There are a wide variety of solutions. At the other end of the landscaping spectrum is the idea of zeroscape, which refers to mostly concrete, stone or gravel in place of traditional landscaping. Somewhere in the middle is xeriscape, a landscape method that minimizes the amount of water by combining native plants and trees with rock and gravel to create a more native outdoor space.
If you like a green lawn, there are companies specializing in synthetic turf where fibers mimic grass perfectly. If properly installed, the turf does not require a great deal of maintenance as long as there is a good drainage system.
Experts say to look for plants that are native to the area, Succulents are a great choice as they can sustain heat, are drought tolerant and retain water. Three popular succulents that have color and are flowering in Las Vegas are Echeverias, Euphorbia (firesticks) and Potulacaria.
When you plant, make sure you group them according to their water needs and use shade that is naturally occurring in your yard. Cassia bushes have a nice spring blooms and don’t need a lot of water. Make sure your landscaping reflects your home’s personality.
Keep in mind that whether you are interested in buying a home or selling a home, a Realtor should represent you—this person is working for your benefit and will help you navigate through the buying or selling process. We have celebrated selling both New and Resale Homes for over thirty years.
We are here to answer any questions you might have—just email Jennifer@smithteamlasvegas.com
Thank you, and have a wonderful day.
