Low Water

Low water means a plant gets by on little water once it is rooted. Getting rooted takes time. Plan on about a year for shrubs and about three years for trees.

Until then, new plants need water more often. Water deeply and less often, at the edge of the plant, not against the trunk. Trees want a soak about 2 to 3 feet deep. Cacti and ground covers need about 1 foot.

Texas Sage, Red Yucca, Blue Glow Agave and Desert Museum Palo Verde are popular low water picks in Valley yards.

What to look for

• Very low or low? The water box on each page tells you how little it needs once rooted.
• Does your soil drain? Soil that stays wet is a common way to lose cacti, agaves and yuccas. If you hit caliche, dig through it so the hole drains.
• Full sun or some shade? Many take full sun. Some, like Blue Glow Agave, do better with afternoon shade in summer.
• Replacing grass? See Plants That Count Toward Grass Rebates for plants that qualify for city rebates.