The Spruce / Adelyn Duchala

Xeriscape gardening is gaining popularity as we face climate changes that affect rainfall amounts.

There are many options for choosing plants to help you create gorgeous, dynamic xeriscape gardens.

Rocks that are fitted closely together allow moisture to stay in place and evaporate more slowly.

Xeriscape garden with tall palm trees, succulents and grasses near lawn

The Spruce / Adelyn Duchala

The solution:succulents!

They do need plenty of sun.

Terra cotta pots are perfect as they help retain some moisture and the color is a true garden neutral.

Lush terrace rock garden

Peg Aloi

But you’re free to choose clay, ceramic, or resin pots of any style you wish.

Being able to move pots around allows you to have maximum freedom for designing your garden space.

There are English and French varieties; check the hardiness zones for winter survival.

Colorful succulents in a ceramic planter

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Saxon Holt of Gardening Gone Wild recommends it for California gardens.

Many gardeners like lavender as an annual, but it will perennialize with some effort.

Prune it back at the end of the season to promote new growth.

Herbaceous border with lavender and salvia

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Cottage Gardens

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Cottage garden designsand xeriscaping are surprisingly compatible.

Deadheading spent blooms helps the flowers conserve moisture and encourages a second round of bloom.

Drought-Tolerant Perennial Plantings for Pollinators

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Many gardeners are concerned about helping pollinators these days.

Sprays of perennials in a cottage garden bed

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Bee balm, true to its name, attracts honeybees, butterflies, and hummingbirds in droves.

It has an herby, minty fragrance.

Drought-Tolerant Annuals

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Annuals need constant watering, right?

Pink bee balm with honeybee

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There are plenty of gorgeous annuals that do just fine with minimal watering.

Natural mulch like cedar is effective for keeping insects away.

Unlike dyed mulches, it decays fairly quickly, enriching soil over time.

Colorful annual flowers in a meadow setting

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It may increase the acidity of your soil slightly.

Woodland Shade Gardens

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Shade gardens can be worry-free zones for the water-conscious gardener.

Lawn Alternatives

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Green lawn maintenance is a thirsty business.

tropical garden plants with pine bark mulch bed

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There’s a reason why areas prone to drought aremoving away from lawnsas the landscape focus.

Eliminating your lawn need not mean everything has to be a manicured flower bed.

This method can also lend a dynamic aesthetic to your garden, especially if you use bold color themes.

woodland shade garden with wrought iron table and chairs

mciandella / Instagram

you’re free to plant them in containers for flexibility.

There are many styles of pavers available, both natural and manufactured.

This also allows beneficial insects and microbes to permeate your soil, creating a healthy environment for your garden.

garden with thick ground cover surrounding stone pavers

themoosegarden / Instagram

autumn garden with vibrant colors

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woodland garden setting with bright red leafed heucheras and bench

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Garden with natural slate paving stones and river rocks.

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