RESIDENTIAL - ARIZONA

Re-Naturalizing an Urban Blank Slate

With the exception of a couple ocotillos, a tall eucalyptus tree, and a raggedy Japanese privet, this client’s front yard started off as a gravely blank slate. Now there are 50+ different plant species in just the front yard. Most are native to the Southwest region but some are from Australia or South Africa. Pollinators and birds are starting to visit the yard.

The biggest challenge for this project was the digging and earthworks. There was an erosion issue against the front of the house, so that was backfilled for better drainage. Planting several dozen plants required extensive digging. Berms, swales, and channels were built around trees for passive water harvesting.