desert plants

Poolside Landscaping Ideas for Gilbert, AZ

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Poolside Landscaping Ideas for Gilbert, AZ

A landscaped backyard in Gilbert, AZ featuring a curved pool, vibrant desert plants, a saguaro cactus, and dark wicker lounge chairs under the sun.
Curved pool with desert landscaping in Gilbert, AZ. Photo: YardBonita

Make the Most of Your Pool Area

In Gilbert’s sunny, dry climate, the right poolside landscaping can create a relaxing oasis while keeping maintenance low. Choose plants and materials that handle desert heat and occasional splashes—then enjoy your outdoor living space all year long.

Best Desert Plants for Poolside Beauty

  • Agave & Yucca: Striking shapes and minimal mess, perfect for a modern look.
  • Desert Spoon (Dasylirion): Unique texture and drought-tolerance.
  • Lantana: Bright blooms that attract pollinators and handle hot weather.
  • Red Yucca: Spiky foliage with tall flower stalks for color and movement.
  • Sago Palm: Adds a touch of the tropics with tough, water-wise habits.

Smart Design Tips for Poolside Spaces

  1. Use gravel or decomposed granite to prevent muddy feet and control weeds.
  2. Add boulders or rock accents for a natural, resort-style feel.
  3. Space plants away from the pool edge to reduce debris in the water.
  4. Include shade structures—like pergolas or umbrellas—for comfort on hot afternoons.
  5. Pathway lighting makes night swims safer and adds ambiance.

Low-Maintenance Tips

  • Choose non-deciduous plants to reduce leaf litter in the pool.
  • Install drip irrigation for water efficiency and happy plants.
  • Mulch beds to keep soil cool and roots healthy.

Inspired Outdoor Living

A well-designed poolside yard is perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and soaking up the Arizona sun. For more expert planting advice, check out our Best Vegetables to Plant in Gilbert This May.

For additional tips on poolside landscaping, explore the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension’s poolside landscaping guide. To learn about safe, drought-tolerant plants, the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association plant database is another great resource.

How to Create a Gravel Garden in the Desert

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A modern gravel garden in Gilbert featuring succulents, boulders, and desert-friendly plants.

Low-Water, High-Style: Gravel Gardens in Gilbert

Gilbert residents know that desert landscaping isn’t just practical — it can be stunning. A well-designed gravel garden can turn your yard into a drought-resistant oasis that requires very little upkeep, saves on water, and stands up beautifully to the Arizona sun. Whether you’re revamping your front yard or replacing a patchy lawn, this guide walks you through everything you need to create a gravel garden that thrives in Gilbert’s desert climate.

A modern gravel garden in Gilbert featuring succulents, boulders, and desert-friendly plants
Gravel gardens are a perfect blend of structure, color, and desert-friendly sustainability.

Why Choose a Gravel Garden in Gilbert?

Gravel gardens are a type of xeriscaping — a landscaping technique designed for water conservation. Unlike lawns or thirsty flower beds, gravel gardens retain moisture, reflect heat away from roots, and eliminate the need for constant watering. Plus, they offer a clean, modern aesthetic that fits right in with Gilbert’s desert surroundings.

Choosing the Right Gravel

Not all gravel is created equal. For desert gardens in Gilbert, here are some top choices:

  • Decomposed Granite (DG): Offers a compact surface perfect for walkways and ground cover.
  • River Rock: Adds contrast and texture when used in dry stream beds or borders.
  • Crushed Stone: Available in many sizes and colors for visual appeal and soil protection.

Choose gravel tones that complement your home’s exterior and existing hardscape for a cohesive look.

Plants that Pair Perfectly with Gravel

The key to a successful gravel garden is mixing structure with color and form. Great plant choices include:

  • Red Yucca – bold spiky forms with coral blooms
  • Lantana – colorful, fast-spreading groundcover
  • Agave – striking architectural statement plants
  • Brittlebush – soft gray foliage and bright yellow flowers
  • Texas Sage – hardy shrub with purple blooms

For more ideas, check out Top Drought-Resistant Plants for Arizona Gardens.

Drainage & Weed Control: Getting the Base Right

Before you start pouring gravel, you’ll need to prepare the area:

  1. Remove any grass or weeds
  2. Level the soil and install a layer of landscape fabric
  3. Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of gravel evenly across the space

Landscape edging helps keep the gravel in place and adds a finished look.

Design Tips for Stunning Layouts

  • Use boulders or driftwood as focal points
  • Break up large spaces with flagstone paths or patios
  • Incorporate elevation changes with mounds or tiered beds
  • Group plants by size and water needs for natural flow

Low Maintenance — Not No Maintenance

Gravel gardens require less effort than traditional gardens, but they still need occasional care:

  • Blow or rake off leaves and debris to prevent weed growth
  • Check irrigation (if used) for leaks or clogs
  • Replenish gravel every couple of years to maintain coverage

Bring Your Yard to Life — Without Using Much Water

By switching to a gravel garden, you’re saving water, reducing yard work, and adding serious curb appeal. With the right materials and plants, your Gilbert yard can become a desert sanctuary that’s both eco-friendly and eye-catching.

Looking to conserve even more water? Check out Installing Efficient Irrigation Systems in Gilbert — and don’t forget your April Yard Checklist for Gilbert!

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