Suggestions for desert backyard?
Question:help. i was going to put grass in my yard so i planted desert plants and palms along the perimeter of the backyard, which is a square shape. The plants along the perimeter are enclosed with curbing all the way around and there is decorative rock surrounding the plants (the curbing was to keep the decorative gravel from spilling into the middle of the yard). I also have a covered patio and some flagstone extending the patio, but the middle is completely bare--no plants, and i dont know what to put in there now other than grass, which sucks water and I live in the desert. i dont have enough money for a pool right now. any suggestions or should I just do th grass? i am also selling my house and most people do look for grass. the space in the middle is approx 40 by 30. thanks!!
Answers:
Unfortunately, yes people do even in the desert look for grass. Your own quandary is proof of that. And in it's own way it's a survival thing...grass means water...an oasis...coolness...and by all means do grass...just be prepared not only for the bills each month; but the daily work needed to maintain it...yes I AM trying to discourage you...a "lawn" is NOT natural in the desert...there are grasses, and grass like plants which will survive the desert climate. And given more time I could make a list; and frankly I'd like the challenge...You might want to consider an "water feature"...I'm thinking something along the lines of just a bubbling fountain...(like just a small pool with a small bubbling column in the middle[it should look natural])...and then a few tough plants around it like occitillo...maybe a few strategically placed boulders(OK large rocks) and some other plants to continue the desert oasis theme you've already started...not only does it make financial sense...you will increase saleability to the right buyer...
you could try going online & ck out sunset western garden books, or try pallensmith.com or bobvilla.com for suggestions on this. Or you might re-think the landscape design & plants, what you'll spend redesigning the area will add to the overall value of your property
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