All plants DIY, swim pond and pergola by contractors. Aim was as little concrete, plastic and bare ground to reduce heat. All plants are chosen to be somewhat regionally appropriate, it’s still a waste but all the rivers have been dammed so I don’t mind using that water making habitat at all.
Massive mix of natives, xerophytes, cacti, succulents, shade cover and honestly tons of plants from almost every continent that work in our climate. 45ish trees, again all less than 8 years old except two mesquites that were here in the front yard.
Planted tons of small trees to build a canopy later – goal was wildlife, consistent blooms, visual interest and really just a place to pace and ensure all water from the sky or pipes go back into the ground.
Still figuring some stuff out, but luckily I’m in my early 30s and we don’t mind physical labor most of the year.
Very urban setting, very historic home and shade/ground cover is the goal to reduce heat.
Still figuring out what we want as we go. It’s 1/3 of an acre and we plant late summer through spring and attempt to establish through summer. Lots of wins, even more losses. All hardscape selected to let water permeate and we’ve accepted the lack of perfection.
Looking pretty good lately thanks to the coolest summer so far this decade. The back wall is a warehouse wall facing south 20×50’ so there’s catclaw planted on it but it’s taken a bit to get established lower, though it goes all the way to the top. This year it’s finally sending out lower shoots so hoping by next summer the wall is less radiant.
by Mlliii
18 Comments
Amazing work
You done good!
I have lived in Phoenix and can imagine what the before looked like… what an amazing transformation. This is such a beautiful space with so much intention and love put into it you can feel it. Truly magical I can’t believe it’s in downtown Phoenix! It feels like a world of its own. Thank you for sharing 🙂
Just incredible! Looks so cozy and lovely. Well done 💚
Reducing heat in Phoenix, good one lol!
I always wondered why desert people feel the need to try to either put grass (insane) or pave everything. This is fantastic work.
Incredible!
This is so much nicer than that plastic lawn posted, thanks for the comparison.
What an oasis. Amazing job!
IN credible
This is gorgeous. Great job! Keep going!
I love the shed
That’s a beautiful desert yard! Well done!
Oh I know you get all the wildlife in the neighborhood
Magnificent transformation! A beautiful oasis in the desert! Enjoy!
p.s. is it loud in downtown Phoenix? I’ve been researching my next move.
Near perfect.
Beautifully done OP. The house looks lovely too. I’m in midtown and on a similar journey
This makes my soul happy. Gorgeous!