Artist: Holli Yoho
Whether you’re committed to xeriscaping your entire yard or just thinking about adding a few native plants to your already-established flowerbeds, water-wise planting is a great way to save water, money, and have success in your garden while increasing your curb appeal and long-term property value.
Between a Rock and a Hard Place
With the joys of experiencing all four seasons, life in Utah’s cold semi-arid climate also presents some obstacles in the gardening department. Here in the high desert, temperatures vary greatly throughout the year, sometimes even in the same week. These shifts between freezing and blazing heat require extra hardiness for people and plants alike. And the range in temperatures isn’t the only challenge. According to Red Butte Garden and Arboretum.
“Along the Wasatch Front, dense alkaline clay soils, intense high-elevation sun, dry air, unpredictable spring frosts, and water limitations create challenges that surprise many gardeners, especially those new to Salt Lake City. Plants that looked healthy at the nursery often struggle once planted, leaving homeowners confused and frustrated about what went wrong.”
Utah is the third driest state in the nation (behind Nevada and Arizona) based on average annual precipitation. In 2026, record-low snowpack and record-high temperatures have intensified our focus on making gardens more resilient.
Department of Natural Resources
Best Practices for Watering
- Water during the coolest hours (typically between 10pm and 6am)
- Consider adding a drip irrigation system to water directly to the roots
- Keep lawn grass slightly taller (about 3-4 inches) to encourage deeper roots and retain moisture
Choose Plants Wisely
Though less-hospitable than many other places, gardening can still be a joyful act. Through respecting the unique landscape and conditions you’ll be able to make informed decisions about what, when, and where to plant. The secret to success? Working with Utah’s climate instead of fighting against it.
One thing you’ll see when researching perennial plants (plants that return year after year) is which hardiness zone they belong in. You can use the USDA Plant Hardiness Map to search for your zip code to get a precise answer. Most of Salt Lake County falls within zone 7b.
Best Practices for Zone 7B
- Don’t forget to consider micro-climates throughout your yard. Group plants with similar water and light needs together for the best results.
- Plant at the right time. Many perennials and trees can be planted in fall or spring to establish roots. Never plant during the hottest months.
- For drought tolerance, opt for lavender, Russian sage, and coneflowers.
- Adding mulch is a great way to enhance your landscape. You can choose from a variety of materials, each with different benefits. Mulching reduces moisture loss and promotes rooting near the surface which results in happier plants.
Additional Local Resources
As with all gardening endeavors, expect the process of learning which water-wise plants work best in your yard to take some trial and error. Luckily, we have a bevy of excellent community resources to support our efforts.
Artist: Holli Yoho
Utah State University Extension – An incredible local resource offering research-based, unbiased information covering the gamut of gardening topics. Take online classes, subscribe to the email newsletter, and read articles written by master gardeners.
Red Butte Garden – One of the largest botanical gardens in the Intermountain West, a regional center for plant-focused science education, conservation and research, and cultural enrichment. offers classes, horticulturist and arborist with a lifelong passion for helping people understand the landscapes they live in.
Conservation Garden Park – Located in West Jordan, the Conservation Garden Park is Salt Lake County’s premier destination for learning about Utah’s unique climate and protecting our water supply. Learn how to create and maintain your own water-efficient landscape while exploring more than eight acres of exhibits, pathways, and plants. Their website also features a robust, free plant database.
The Plot – On the north side of the Main Branch of the public library in downtown SLC, The Plot is a learning laboratory for Library patrons to sow, grow, and share using sustainable gardening practices.
Utah Native Plant Society – Fostering public recognition of the diverse flora of the state, a natural treasure to be valued, respected and protected.
Progressive Plants – Utah’s premier nursery for locally grown plants since 1985. Create an account and order online.
Slow the Flow – Funded by the Governor’s Water Conservation Team, Slow the Flow offers tips and incentives for installing drip irrigation, lawn replacement, and plating shade-giving trees.
Wasatch Community Garden – Guidance on choosing the right plants, having an optimal layout, and caring for your garden to ensure it thrives with limited watering.
Niche Homes is a full-service real estate agency specializing in Wasatch Front neighborhoods and enclaves. Contact us if you are interested in buying or selling a home.
