Drought conditions aren’t new to Fort Worth—and they’re not going away. Creating a drought-tolerant landscape is the smart choice for property owners who want to save water, lower maintenance costs, and still enjoy a stunning yard. With the right planning, plants, and features, it’s possible to build an outdoor space that thrives with minimal irrigation.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know to design and install a drought-tolerant landscape that looks great and performs even better in North Texas.
Start With a Smart Landscape Plan
A great drought-tolerant landscape starts with a design that maximizes water efficiency. The layout should group plants with similar water needs together and reduce thirsty turf areas.
Key Planning Principles:
- Use zoning to place low-water plants in the driest areas of the yard.
- Incorporate permeable materials like gravel paths and decomposed granite.
- Keep turf minimal—only where it’s functional.
- Emphasize shade with trees or pergolas to reduce evaporation.
At Blooms Landcare, our design experts use Fort Worth’s climate as a guide, selecting features that conserve water and add visual appeal.
Choose Native and Drought-Resistant Plants
Texas natives are the backbone of water-efficient landscaping. These plants are naturally adapted to Fort Worth’s heat and dry spells, requiring less irrigation and thriving with less intervention.
Top Drought-Tolerant Plants for Fort Worth:
- Texas Sage – Purple blooms, low water needs.
- Lantana – Bold color, attracts pollinators.
- Agave – Sculptural, no fuss.
- Salvia greggii (Autumn Sage) – Long flowering season.
- Mexican Feather Grass – Adds movement and texture.
- Yaupon Holly – Evergreen and resilient.
Mixing textures, colors, and heights creates visual interest without compromising water savings.
Install Drip Irrigation for Precision Watering
Traditional sprinklers waste water. In a drought-tolerant design, drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the plant roots, reducing evaporation and runoff.
Advantages of Drip Irrigation:
- Up to 50% less water than overhead systems.
- Compatible with smart controllers and rain sensors.
- Promotes deeper, stronger root systems.
- Targets plants individually instead of blanket-watering the whole yard.
Installing a properly zoned drip system ensures every drop of water counts.
Mulch to Lock in Moisture and Prevent Weeds
Mulch is more than decorative—it’s one of the easiest, most affordable tools for water retention.
Best Mulch Types for Fort Worth Landscapes:
- Hardwood Mulch – Slow to break down, great for plant beds.
- Cedar Mulch – Naturally resists insects.
- Pine Bark – Excellent for acid-loving plants.
- Rock Mulch – Reflects heat and lasts longer.
Apply mulch 2–3 inches deep and reapply annually for optimal water-saving benefits.
Reduce Turf and Use Artificial Grass Where Needed
Lawns are the thirstiest part of a landscape. While real grass may be useful in small play or seating areas, artificial turf offers a low-maintenance, water-free solution that stays green all year long.
Benefits of Artificial Turf in Drought Areas:
- Zero irrigation needed.
- Always looks fresh and manicured.
- Safe for pets and kids.
- Great for hard-to-grow or shaded areas.
At Blooms Landcare, we install premium artificial grass that looks natural and performs under high heat.
Incorporate Hardscape to Minimize Water Use
Adding more non-living elements helps break up plantings, reduce watering zones, and increase usability.
Water-Wise Hardscape Ideas:
- Flagstone or paver patios
- Gravel walkways
- Dry creek beds for runoff control
- Retaining walls that reduce erosion
Well-designed hardscapes add both visual contrast and functionality to your drought-tolerant yard.
Use Smart Technology to Control Watering
Today’s smart irrigation controllers take the guesswork out of watering. They adjust schedules based on local weather, soil moisture, and plant needs.
Smart Tools That Save Water:
- Wi-Fi irrigation controllers
- Soil moisture sensors
- Rain shutoff devices
These tools prevent overwatering and optimize usage—a must for a drought-resilient landscape in Fort Worth.
Think Long-Term With Maintenance Plans
A drought-tolerant yard still needs care to perform its best. Maintenance includes pruning, seasonal mulching, irrigation checks, and occasional plant replacement.
Hiring a professional team like Blooms Landcare ensures your landscape stays tidy and efficient year-round.
Professional Maintenance Services Include:
- Monitoring plant health
- Adjusting irrigation schedules
- Reapplying mulch
- Seasonal cleanups
Why Choose Blooms Landcare for Drought-Tolerant Landscaping?
For over 15 years, Blooms Landcare has helped Fort Worth homeowners create sustainable landscapes that thrive through Texas droughts. We understand the region’s climate and provide thoughtful design, installation, and maintenance that saves water and enhances property value.
Our Services Include:
- Custom drought-tolerant landscape design
- Native plant and artificial turf installation
- Drip irrigation and water-saving systems
- Patio, pergola, and hardscape construction
- Full-service lawn care and seasonal maintenance
Ready to save water without sacrificing beauty? Contact Blooms Landcare at 817-688-5352 to start your drought-tolerant landscape project today. We provide expert lawn care, landscape design, construction, and artificial turf installation to keep your Fort Worth yard thriving year-round.