10 Stunning Ways Tanner Landscape & Design Elevates Your Arizona Landscape

Here are 10 strategies we use to build beautiful, low-maintenance, and climate-resilient landscapes across Arizona.

1. Choosing the Right Desert-Adapted Plants

The foundation of a successful Arizona landscape lies in plant selection. Not all desert plants are created equal. We prioritize low-water, high-resilience options like agave, red yucca, desert spoon, and brittlebush. These native and adaptive species require minimal water and offer seasonal color, supporting pollinators without overwhelming your irrigation system.

While Palo Verde trees are common in the region, we often guide clients toward alternatives depending on space, pollen concerns, and maintenance needs.

2. Artificial Turf That Stays Cool and Clean

Maintaining a traditional lawn in Arizona is both water-intensive and expensive. That’s why many homeowners are switching to high-performance artificial turf. We exclusively use Turf It brand synthetic grass, which stands out for its cooler surface temperatures, realistic look, and durability.

Turf It turf is designed to resist matting, reduce heat absorption, and drain efficiently—making it ideal for families, pets, and high-traffic areas. It offers the lush look of real grass without the constant watering, mowing, or fertilizing.

3. Water-Smart Irrigation Solutions

Desert landscapes thrive on efficient irrigation. Our systems are engineered with water conservation in mind. We use drip irrigation, moisture sensors, and programmable smart controllers to ensure plants receive the precise amount of water needed, without waste.

Educating homeowners on seasonal adjustments and proper maintenance is part of our process, helping you keep your system working optimally long after installation. Learn more about why it’s important to have proper irrigation in Arizona.

4. Thoughtfully Designed Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor living is part of the Arizona lifestyle, and design matters. We create functional zones that provide comfort and purpose—shaded patios for summer, fire pits for winter evenings, and open areas for gatherings or solitude.

We also take into account wind exposure, sun angles, and traffic flow to maximize usability and minimize weather-related wear.

5. Ground Covers and Mulching for Moisture Retention

Not all ground covers are the same. We often recommend decomposed granite, gravel mulch, or organic options depending on your landscape goals. These help retain soil moisture, reduce temperature swings, and prevent erosion—all crucial in a desert setting.

Proper ground cover also discourages weeds and gives your yard a clean, finished appearance.

6. Energy‑Efficient Landscape Lighting

Lighting extends the usability of your outdoor space while enhancing safety. Our lighting plans prioritize LED fixtures and solar options that reduce electricity use. From path lighting to uplights for architectural plants, good lighting design brings your Arizona landscape to life after dark.

7. Seasonal Color Without the Hassle

By combining evergreen desert shrubs with flowering perennials like desert marigold and penstemon, we create gardens that provide interest year-round. The key is choosing species with staggered bloom times and minimal maintenance needs.

We help clients understand bloom cycles and incorporate soil amendments to encourage healthy, consistent growth across the seasons.

8. Functional Hardscape for Long‑Term Use

Walkways, patios, and retaining walls serve both form and function. In Arizona, it’s vital to use materials that withstand intense sunlight and temperature shifts. We focus on heat-reflective pavers, local stone, and long-lasting finishes to build resilient hardscapes that age gracefully.

9. Shade Solutions That Cool Naturally

Creating cool zones in a desert yard isn’t just a comfort feature—it’s a necessity. Our designs often include pergolas, trellises, or freestanding structures positioned to provide maximum shade during peak heat hours.

We also consider natural shading from taller plants or vertical garden elements, helping you use the sun’s patterns to your advantage.

10. Edible and Useful Planting Options

Many homeowners are surprised to learn they can grow herbs, vegetables, and fruits in the Arizona landscape. Raised beds with drip irrigation allow for efficient water use and nutrient control.

We often integrate rosemary, basil, chili peppers, and citrus trees into designs, combining beauty with function in compact, climate-friendly ways.

Landscape Design That Works With the Desert—Not Against It

At Tanner Landscape & Design, we believe that education is just as important as installation. Helping homeowners understand how to care for their space, choose water-wise options, and prepare for Arizona’s extreme seasons leads to better long-term results—and more enjoyment of the space.

Whether you’re interested in installing Turf It artificial grass, reimagining your backyard layout, or adding native plants that bloom through the summer, every detail is approached with care and experience.

Interested in making your Arizona landscape more beautiful and sustainable? Contact Tanner Landscape & Design to learn how we can help guide your next outdoor project.