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Owned by John

A global community for xeriscape design and build. Learn water-smart plans, plant combos, and practical steps to create beautiful low-water yards.

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20 contributions to Waterwise/Xeriscaping School
Simple but powerful
🌱 From Random to Intentional This one was a fun challenge out in Syracuse. The homeowner had already planted a mix of shrubs over time. No real plan, just adding things here and there. Instead of ripping everything out, we worked with it. And honestly… that made it better. We shaped the design around what was already there, cleaned things up, added structure, and turned it into something that actually feels cohesive. Now it looks like it was always meant to be this way. Here’s the part most people care about: They removed 1,300 sq ft of lawn At $2.50 per sq ft through Utah Water Savers That’s $3,250 back to the homeowner On top of that, this yard will save tens of thousands of gallons of water every year. Less mowing Less stress More time actually enjoying the yard And still green where it matters This is what I love about xeriscaping done right. It’s not about stripping everything out. It’s about creating something better, smarter, and built for Utah. If you’ve got a yard that feels random or unfinished, you’re not as far off as you think.
Simple but powerful
0 likes • 4d
Also, the pergola was already there too!
STOP OVERTHINKING YOUR LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Most people think they need a complex plan to make their yard look good. You don’t. The best landscapes follow a few simple principles: 1. Plant in groups, not one-offs Instead of 30 random plants, use 5 to 7 varieties and repeat them. This creates a clean and intentional look. 2. Choose plants that do something Do not just plant for looks. Pick plants that attract pollinators, smell good, and change with the seasons. Now your yard is not just nice, it is alive. 3. Go heavy on mulch Thin mulch leads to weeds, dryness, and frustration. Thick mulch holds moisture, reduces weeds, and makes everything look finished. 4. Think water first Every plant either helps you or costs you. Ask yourself what will thrive here with less water. Simple beats fancy every time. If you follow these four things, your yard will look better than most without overcomplicating it. If you want help designing something like this and getting rebate money, reach out.
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Simple Design Wins (That Most People Overlook)
Simple Design Wins (That Most People Overlook) If you’re thinking about updating your yard this spring, here are a few simple design principles that make a huge difference—without overcomplicating things: 🌿 1. Group plants, don’t scatter them Instead of spacing everything evenly, plant in clusters. This creates a more natural look, helps plants thrive together, and makes your yard feel intentional instead of random. 🐝 2. Think pollinators (and life in your yard) Plants like salvia, penstemon, yarrow, and daisies don’t just look good… They bring in bees, butterflies, and movement. A yard that feels alive is always more enjoyable than one that just “looks clean.” 🌸 3. Plan for coverage early One of the biggest mistakes I see is underplanting. Groundcovers and spreading perennials (like creeping juniper, ice plant, or kinnikinnick) will fill in over time and: • Reduce weeds • Lower maintenance • Save you money long-term 🪵 4. Don’t skimp on mulch This is a big one. A thick, high-quality mulch layer (3–4 inches): • Locks in moisture • Keeps soil temps stable • Suppresses weeds • Makes everything look finished and premium Thin mulch = more weeds + more water + more frustration 💧 5. Design with water in mind The goal isn’t just to remove grass… it’s to build a system that uses water wisely. Drip irrigation + proper spacing + the right plants = Less waste, healthier plants, and long-term savings At the end of the day, the best landscapes aren’t the most complicated… They’re the ones that are thought through. Simple. Intentional. Built to last. If you’re planning a project this year and want help thinking through it, drop a question below 👇
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Fun little design in SLC.
Homeowner will be getting about 5-6k back in rebates if all goes well!
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Fun little design in SLC.
Spring Is Waking Up… Is Your Yard Ready?
You can feel it right now… The soil is warming ☀️ Plants are starting to wake up 🌱 This is one of the most important times of the year for your landscape. Most people wait until May or June to think about their yard, but by then you are already behind. Here are a few simple design principles to think about right now: Start with early bloomers 🌸 Plants like creeping phlox and early penstemons bring life back into your yard first. Think in layers 🌿 Groundcover, perennials, and grasses create a full, natural look that fills in over time. Plan for water, not against it 💧 If your design works with Utah’s climate, everything becomes easier. Less water, less maintenance, better results. Design for life 🐝 Bees, butterflies, and birds should be part of the plan, not an afterthought. Most traditional landscapes do not really wake up. They just survive. A well-designed xeriscape actually comes alive in early spring. If you want help, drop a picture of your yard below or ask a question. I will give you ideas, plant suggestions, or simple layout feedback.
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John Cowgill
3
41points to level up
@john-cowgill-9692
I design and install low-water, low-maintenance yards. I replace lawn with natural landscapes that fit the climate and still look good all year.

Active 4d ago
Joined Oct 31, 2025
ENFJ