Best landscaping methods for southern Arizona?

Question

I have had an un-landscaped front yard for 5+ years because I don't want to do it wrong. Of the 5 contractors I had give me ideas with estimates, NONE of them ever got back with me. I figured it was harder than I thought.

anyway, What are the methods, layer by layer that landscaping material needs to be laid? How can I keep weeds from growing through underlayment and new landscaping? What are the most mainenance free desert plants I can landscape with? What watering system should be used?

Answer 1

Your best bet is to look around your neighborhood to see who has to maintain their yard, and who doesn't.  There are so many options out there, it is difficult offer a single suggestion.  If you want to xeriscape, you won't need a watering system; once your plants are well established, they will survive on what nature provides.

Do not be afraid, if you make a mistake, you can correct it.  Change is good, but you have to put in something that may or may not be the look you're looking for.  If you don't do anything, you'll never know.

You don't have to do the whole yard at once, just start with one area, come up with a plan, and then execute it.  Make sure you consider the view from the inside of your house as well as curb appeal.