Dry Landscape Ideas, Plant Types & Tips for Santa Fe’s Climate

Dry Landscape Ideas: Key Points 

• Dry landscaping design ideas that reduce the need for water and maintenance include dry riverbeds, xeriscaping zones, and native meadows  

• Dry landscaping is a sustainable and attractive solution ideal for Santa Fe’s high-desert climate   

• Drought-tolerant plants like Big Sagebrush, Winterfat, Agastache, and Apache Plume can make dry landscapes vivid and bright 

• Functional hardscaping such as gravel patios, stone walkways, and fire pit areas improves the usability of your outdoor space 

• Soil testing, plant grouping, and drip irrigation are key for dry landscaping’s performance 

Santa Fe has a high desert climate with sunlight and beauty but with very little water. That means traditional landscaping isn’t always practical, and it’s a good idea to explore alternatives like dry landscaping. 

In this guide, we’ll share: 

• Fresh dry landscape ideas 

• Best plants and materials for dry landscaping 

• Landscaping tips for Santa Fe’s dry climate 

• Answers to commonly asked questions

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Creative Dry Landscape Ideas for Small and Large Yards 

So how can you fit your outdoor space’s design into Santa Fe’s high desert canvas of sun, stone, and sky? Here are several ideas to give you inspiration. 

Dry Riverbeds 

A striking visual feature, dry riverbeds bring a sense of natural flow and serenity to your yard or garden. 

• Choose a natural-looking route that follows your yard’s slope. 

• Dig a shallow trench, about 4–8 inches deep. 

• Fill it with gravel or decomposed granite. 

• Place river rocks and larger stones to shape the flow and edges. 

• Use drought-tolerant plants to soften borders and blend into your landscape. 

Layered Xeriscaping Zones 

Transform your yard into a living system by organizing plants based on their water needs. 

• Cluster drought-tolerant species according to their water and sun requirements. 

• Arrange high-water-use plants near the house and low-use further out. 

• Use rocks, mulch, or gravel to make each layer stand out. 

• Add compost to the soil where needed, especially in high-use planting zones. 

• Top with mulch to keep moisture and reduce weeds. 

Separate Gathering Areas 

Create distinct spaces for connecting with loved ones and nature, whether a quiet reading nook or a fire pit for evening stories. 

• Pick your location based on shade or view. 

• Lay a durable base of flagstone, gravel, or pavers. 

• Add benches, outdoor furniture, or built-in walls. 

• Frame the space with low-maintenance greenery for comfort and charm. 

• Link the gathering area to the rest of your outdoor space using curved trails or stepping stones. 

Native Meadows 

Plant hardy grasses and wildflowers to transform unused space into a stunning native meadow just outside your door. 

• Clear existing turf or weeds and loosen the top layer. 

• Use various grasses and wildflowers that grow well in Santa Fe’s climate. 

• Sow seeds evenly and gently rake them in. 

• Water regularly until roots strengthen, then reduce water use as plants mature. 

• Mow once or twice a year to keep a natural look . 

Understanding Dry Landscaping in Santa Fe 

Considering dry landscapes for your space? The first thing is to understand Santa Fe’s environment.  

The city’s high elevation (7,000 feet), strong sun (320+ sunny days per year), and low rainfall (about 14 inches per year) create various challenges, such as: 

• Rapid evaporation 

• Poor soil nutrition 

• Extensive temperature changes between day and night 

Smart dry landscapes resemble natural desert areas, where you can see low-growing ground covers, deep-rooted shrubs, and open spaces, allowing the free movement of air and sunlight.  

Soil health is also key, as many homes in Santa Fe have clay or sandy loam soil, which affects plant growth and how well water is absorbed.

Best Plants and Materials for Dry Landscapes 

Choosing the right plants and hardscape materials for Santa Fe’s climate can help you create an enjoyable outdoor space where you can welcome guests, spend time with your family, or just relax and recharge.  

Drought-Tolerant Plants 

Santa Fe may be dry, but you can still enjoy the colors, scents, and gentle sway of native blooms. 

• Big Sagebrush: A favorite of the Southwest, big sagebrush is known for its silvery-grey foliage and earthy aroma that fills the air after rain. This drought-resistant shrub can reach up to six feet tall, creating a soft, textured accent in your yard.  

• Winterfat: This low-growing shrub has narrow, grey-green leaves covered in fine hairs that give it a silvery shimmer. In late summer, you can enjoy its creamy white seed heads which turn fluffy as they mature, adding a gentle touch to the rugged terrain.  

• Agastache: Agastache lights up dry gardens with pink, coral, orange, and lavender blooms and a gentle minty fragrance. A favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies, it brings life to any landscape.  

• Apache Plume: Delicate yet resistant to dry conditions, Apache Plume offers a beautiful contrast of texture and color. Its small white flowers resembling wild roses fill your garden with beauty in spring and summer, turning to pink plumes as the petals fall away. 

• Yucca: With a rosette of thick, blue-green leaves, Yucca adds a touch of dramatic elegance to the surroundings. In late spring, the tall spikes are covered with creamy white flowers, attracting pollinators and making your garden burst into life.

Mulch and Ground Covers 

While the plants bring color to your dry landscape, the materials that surround them can make each flower shine. 

• Gravel and decomposed granite: Available in various natural tones, from warm golds to soft reds, gravel and decomposed granite ensure proper drainage, help prevent soil erosion and reflect light, creating subtle contrasts with desert-landscape plants. 

• Pine bark or wood chips: Organic mulches like pine bark and wood chips help retain moisture and suppress weed growth around shrubs, perennials, and trees, which is key in Santa Fe’s dry climate. As they break down, they enrich the soil with useful nutritional elements. 

• Low-spreading ground covers: Fragrant creeping thyme and native sedums add softness and charm to your dry garden while acting as a living mulch that helps retain moisture. In addition, they create harmony between the planted and unplanted areas of your landscape.  

Landscaping Tips for Santa Fe’s Dry Climate 

To keep your Santa Fe landscapes beautiful and delicate for as long as possible, follow the expert tips below.  

• Test and amend your soil: Check what nutrients are needed for the specific plants you want to use and add compost or locally sourced organic matter to improve the soil. 

• Arrange plants according to water needs: Group plants that require more watering together and drought-resistant shrubs farther out to maximize irrigation. 

• Use drip irrigation: Drip systems bring water directly to the roots, reducing water consumption and helping plants grow even in very dry periods. 

• Think of the sun: Study your garden’s sun patterns and place sun-loving plants in exposed spots. Where needed, use larger shrubs or structures to create shade. 

• Minimize lawns: Replace lawns with ground covers, gravel, or native plant beds to reduce maintenance and water use. 

• Use hardscaping: Build pathways, flagstone patios, retaining walls, and open fire pits to minimize the need for watering and upkeep. 

Dry Landscape Ideas: Key Takeaways 

• Transform your outdoor space into a stunning, low-maintenance oasis by using dry landscaping. 

• Use elements like dry riverbeds, gravel patios, and native plant zones to conserve water and maximize space. 

• Use native plants like Winterfat and Agastache to enhance beauty while supporting local biodiversity. 

• Optimize irrigation, amend your soil, and reduce turf to make your landscape resist the dry climate. 

• Smart landscaping with the right materials and layout boosts curb appeal and increases home value. 

Need Help With Dry Landscaping? Call Urbanna’s Experts 

With years of experience in local climate and possible solutions, Urbanna Landscaping, crafts attractive and sustainable dry landscapes across the Santa Fe area.  

We will: 

• Assess your outdoor space and suggest a modern landscape design that meets your property’s topography, sunlight, and soil characteristics. 

• Select native, drought-resilient plants that grow in high-desert conditions. 

• Include gravel patios, stone walkways, raised beds, and gathering zones to maximize space and boost your home’s value. 

• Install an irrigation system that suits your plant’s watering needs. 

Whether you want to restructure a narrow side garden or build a full backyard oasis, Urbanna can help you make the most of your landscape.

Dry Landscape Ideas: FAQs 

For more insights into dry landscaping, check out the section below.  

Do dry landscapes require maintenance? 

Yes, although maintaining your dry landscape may need less effort compared to traditional landscaping, you will still need to do occasional weeding, mulching, pruning, and seasonal irrigation system checks. 

Can I have color in a dry landscape? 

Absolutely. To add color to your dry landscape, opt for drought-resistant plants like Agastache, Penstemon, and Apache Plume. Talk to our team at Urbanna Landscaping for the best options and care tips. 

Is dry landscaping expensive? 

While initial installation costs can vary, you will benefit from long-term savings on water, fertilizer, and labor. 

Will a dry landscape add value to my home? 

Yes, landscapes designed by experts like Urbanna enhance curb appeal and add to your home’s value.