Map Hydrozones and Remove Thirsty Turf
1 dayIdentify high-water lawn areas to remove, group remaining plants by water need, and plan hardscape to reduce irrigated area.
Field context
This workflow is part of 3 niche fields
Complete guide for drought tolerant landscape — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Identify high-water lawn areas to remove, group remaining plants by water need, and plan hardscape to reduce irrigated area.
Calculate drip emitter spacing and GPM per zone, size mulch depth for evaporation suppression on all beds.
Choose drought-tolerant species, space by mature canopy spread for shade coverage, install drip and mulch same week as planting.
Compare water bill to pre-conversion baseline, adjust drip run times, add mulch where soil shows through.
Calculates mulch volume for 3-inch depth across all drought-tolerant beds.
Spaces shade trees for maximum coverage without future crowding.
Adapts to drip emitter layout and precipitation rate for xeric beds.
Sizes mainline for reduced GPM drip zones vs former spray system.
Water Use by Landscape Type
| Type | Gal/sq ft/yr | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cool-season turf | 40–60 | Highest use |
| Drought-tolerant beds | 8–15 | With drip |
| Hardscape | 0 | Minimal maintenance |
Combine trenching for irrigation, drainage, and low-voltage lighting in one pass when possible.
Match plant mature size to spacing calculators — overcrowding creates maintenance debt for years.
Wear eye and ear protection when cutting pavers, blocks, or running plate compactors.