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Tip 11: Consider Drought-Resistant Plants

Water is a precious resource, especially during the hot summer months when non-drought-resistant plants need it most. Drought - resistant plants are hardy and can survive for months without watering at all if it rains often enough. This is good for the environment and for the homeowner's utility bill.

Tip 12: Use a Rain Barrel to Collect Water

Speaking of saving water, a planted landscape requires frequent watering. Thankfully, nature helps out with the occasional rain shower. But you can help nature to do a more efficient job between downfalls. Save up for a sunny day. Install a rain barrel that catches and stores runoff from the gutter downspout. Not only are rain barrels environmentally friendly, some are beautifully painted and can make an artistic statement in the landscaping design.

Tip 13: Mulch to Retain Water, and to Keep Soil Temperatures Consistent

A good mulch keeps moisture in the soil rather than letting it evaporate. This provides constant access to water for the plants, which makes them healthier.

Tip 14: Plant by Foliage Color and Fall Color Change, Not Flowers

For most plants, the flowering season is rather short-lived. Even though the flowers are stunning when in bloom, it is wise to pick plants that are pleasing when not flowering as well. To keep a flower bed interesting throughout the season, choose plants with attractive foliage and groupings of plants that bloom at different times.