How to Create a Stunning Commercial Landscape While Conserving Water

Water is a valuable resource, and with rising costs and growing concerns over drought, commercial properties must adopt smarter landscaping strategies. The good news? Water-efficient landscaping doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. With thoughtful design, the right plant choices, and modern irrigation solutions, you can create a lush, vibrant landscape that thrives while using significantly less water.

Whether you manage an office park, retail center, or multi-family property, implementing water-saving landscaping practices is both an environmentally responsible and financially smart decision. Reduced water bills, lower maintenance costs, and long-term sustainability make it a worthwhile investment.

Let’s explore the most effective ways to create a beautiful, eco-friendly landscape without unnecessary water waste.

Why Water-Efficient Landscaping Matters

Traditional landscaping is often inefficient, with excessive watering, high-maintenance grass, and outdated irrigation systems wasting thousands of gallons of water each year. Common issues include:

• Overuse of Turf Grass – Lawns require frequent watering and upkeep, driving up costs.
• Overwatering & Runoff – Many irrigation systems are inefficient, leading to wasted water.
• Drought Restrictions & Rising Costs – Many regions impose water usage limits, making wasteful landscaping unsustainable.

By adopting water-wise landscaping practices, you reduce operational costs, comply with local water regulations, and enhance your property’s sustainability.

Choosing Drought-Tolerant Plants & Low-Water Landscaping

The first step in water conservation is selecting plants that thrive in your region without excessive watering.

1. Replace High-Maintenance Grass

Traditional turf grass is one of the biggest water consumers in commercial landscaping. Instead, consider:

• Native grasses – Require less water and maintenance.
• Ground covers (e.g., clover, creeping thyme) – Lush and drought-resistant alternatives.
• Artificial turf – A no-water, no-mow solution for recreational areas.

2. Select Water-Wise Plants

Opting for native and drought-tolerant plants reduces irrigation needs while adding beauty and texture to your landscape. Consider:

• Succulents & cacti – Aloe, agave, and sedum require minimal water.
• Drought-tolerant shrubs – Lavender, rosemary, and sage thrive in dry conditions.
• Ornamental grasses – Blue fescue and feather reed grass add visual interest with little maintenance.
• Hardy perennials – Yarrow, echinacea, and black-eyed Susans bloom beautifully without constant watering.

Native plants not only conserve water but also require fewer fertilizers and pesticides, making maintenance easier and more cost-effective.

Implementing Xeriscaping for Maximum Water Savings

Xeriscaping is a landscaping approach that prioritizes low-water plants, soil health, and efficient irrigation. It’s a practical, attractive, and environmentally friendly way to reduce water use while maintaining curb appeal.

Key Xeriscaping Techniques:

• Hydrozoning – Group plants with similar water needs together to optimize irrigation efficiency.
• Mulching – Reduces evaporation, keeps soil cool, and prevents weed growth. Use organic mulch (bark, wood chips) or decorative gravel.
• Hardscaping Features – Incorporate pavers, stone pathways, and rock gardens to reduce high-maintenance lawn areas.
• Permeable Surfaces – Replace concrete with permeable pavers to improve water absorption and prevent runoff.

Xeriscaped landscapes are not just for desert climates—they can be adapted to any region to reduce overall water consumption.

Upgrading to Smart Irrigation Systems

An outdated irrigation system can waste thousands of gallons of water annually. Modern irrigation technology helps deliver the right amount of water, exactly where and when it’s needed.

1. Install Smart Irrigation Controllers

Smart irrigation systems adjust watering schedules based on real-time weather conditions. They:

• Skip watering on rainy days.
• Adjust for temperature and humidity levels.
• Reduce overall water waste while ensuring plants receive proper hydration.

2. Use Drip Irrigation for Precision Watering

Unlike traditional sprinklers, which can overspray and evaporate, drip irrigation delivers water directly to plant roots. Benefits include:

• Up to 50% less water use than overhead sprinklers.
• Reduced runoff and soil erosion.
• Healthier plant growth with consistent moisture distribution.

Drip irrigation is ideal for garden beds, trees, shrubs, and flower installations.

Harvesting Rainwater for Landscaping

Why pay for irrigation when nature provides free water? Rainwater harvesting captures runoff from rooftops and stores it for later use in landscape watering.

Simple & Advanced Solutions:

• Rain barrels – Collect rainwater from downspouts for use during dry periods.
• Larger collection systems – Store water in underground tanks for irrigation use.
• Bioswales & rain gardens – Absorb and filter rainwater naturally while enhancing landscape aesthetics.

Rainwater harvesting reduces dependency on municipal water sources and lowers utility costs.

Maintaining a Water-Efficient Landscape

Even the best-designed landscape requires regular upkeep to stay water-efficient.

1. Monitor Irrigation Systems for Leaks

Regularly inspect and repair broken sprinkler heads, leaky pipes, and clogged drip emitters to prevent water waste.

2. Optimize Watering Schedules

Water deeply but less frequently to encourage strong root growth. Early morning or late evening watering minimizes evaporation.

3. Prune & Mulch Regularly

Trimming trees and shrubs prevents excess transpiration, while mulching retains soil moisture.

4. Conduct Seasonal Soil Testing

Healthy soil retains water better, reducing irrigation needs. Adjust fertilizers and composting practices based on soil conditions.

The Future of Water-Wise Landscaping

As water conservation becomes increasingly important, commercial properties must adopt smarter landscaping solutions. Water-efficient landscaping:

✔ Reduces costs and conserves resources.
✔ Enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property.
✔ Aligns with sustainability initiatives and regulatory compliance.

By incorporating drought-tolerant plants, smart irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and xeriscaping principles, you can create a stunning landscape that thrives with minimal water use.

Make Your Landscape Beautiful & Sustainable

Looking to upgrade your commercial property with a water-efficient landscape? Contact Priority Landscape at 708-946-6121 to create a stunning, sustainable outdoor space that saves water and enhances curb appeal!