Choose drought-tolerant plants

The right plants need less care, and save more water for people.
Most areas of North America, even those that get a lot of rain annually, regularly experience extended dry spells. Plants that are adapted to survive and even thrive through such periods will require little or no watering. Drought tolerant plants can include trees, shrubs, vines, and flowers. Also, some grass species--buffalo grass, for instance, or crested wheat-grass--use less water and tolerate drought better than Kentucky bluegrass and other standard turf grasses. Native plants, which are well adapted to local rainfall patterns, may be excellent choices for drought resistance.

Green points

LEED for HomesLeadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED for Homes is the residential green building program from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). While this program is primarily designed for and applicable to new home projects, major gut rehabs can qualify. : 2 points for a basic landscape design that incorporates drought-tolerant turf in addition to other features.
NGBSNational Green Building Standard Based on the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines and passed through ANSI. This standard can be applied to both new homes, remodeling projects, and additions. /ICC-700: 4 points for using turf grass species and other plants that are native or regionally appropriate for local conditions (503.5).

Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia

Landscape: Native Plants and Soil

Learn more in the Green Product Directory

Native Plants and Seeds