From Conventional Yard to Complete Xeriscape
What happens between the first conversation and a finished Scottsdale xeriscape — discovery, site evaluation, design, selections, installation, walkthrough, and establishment.
The installation follows an understandable sequence from evaluation and design through walkthrough and care guidance.
What happens at each stage
Step 1
Discovery
The conversation starts with how the property is used, what is not working now, what look the homeowner is drawn to, and which parts of the yard are in scope.
Your part: Describe the goals, the problems, any HOA context, and anything that has to stay.
Step 2
Site evaluation
The property is assessed for exposure and shade, soil and drainage, slope, access, existing plants and irrigation, and what will remain.
Your part: Provide access and point out known issues and buried utilities.
Checkpoint — after Site evaluation
If you want to pursue a City rebate
If a homeowner wants to pursue a City of Scottsdale program, the current requirements are checked and the paperwork sequence is planned before any removal happens. The City decides eligibility and approval.
Step 3
Design direction
A layout takes shape: planting areas, circulation, sightlines from the street and from inside, material palette, and how the front and back relate.
Your part: React to the direction, and say plainly what does not appeal.
Step 4
Selections
Plants, rock and gravel, boulders, borders, and irrigation components are chosen against the design rather than picked from a catalog.
Your part: Confirm the palette and any preferences on color, texture, or scale.
Step 5
Preparation
Existing turf or unsuitable material is removed and the site is prepared. Where a City rebate is involved, the required inspection comes before removal begins.
Your part: Confirm the removal scope, and — if pursuing a rebate — wait for the City before anything is torn out.
Step 6
Installation
Work follows a sequence: grading and drainage, irrigation lines, planting, then ground materials and edging, so nothing finished gets disturbed by later work.
Your part: Nothing required day to day beyond access.
Step 7
Walkthrough
The finished landscape is reviewed together, including how the irrigation is zoned and how to operate it.
Your part: Raise anything that looks unfinished or unclear while the crew is still there.
Step 8
Establishment and care
New plants need more water while they root than they will need later. Guidance covers the establishment period, seasonal care, and how the irrigation is adjusted as plants mature.
Your part: Follow the establishment watering, and expect light seasonal maintenance — a xeriscape is low-maintenance, not no-maintenance.
Plan Your Complete Yard Conversion
The conversation starts with how the property is used, what is not working now, what look the homeowner is drawn to, and which parts of the yard are in scope.
Demo form — try the complete experience. Nothing you enter is sent, saved, or scheduled.
Request a Design Consultation