Now’s the perfect time to plan for a home “facelift” with a landscape upgrade!  

Like any other makeover, you’ll want to consult the experts before you make any major changes.  For landscape ideas and inspiration, checkout the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s five free sample designs at snwa.com.  Created by professional landscape architects, the designs can be modified to fit any size yard.

If you want to jazz up your front yard, take a look at the Low-Maintenance or Color Explosion front yard designs.  If it’s your backyard that needs some help, the Mojave Accents, Child-Friendly and Entertaining Back Yard designs are sure to inspire you. You can use the design as your actual blueprint or simply for ideas.

Once you’re committed to making the change, follow these tips to ensure a successful conversion: 

·        Before you remove any grass, sign up for the Water Smart Landscapes rebate program. Your conversion could earn you $1 for each square foot of grass replaced with water-smart landscaping.

·        Do a little research. Order a free copy of a sample landscape design or the SNWA’s Water Smart Landscapes book by calling (702) 258-SAVE or visiting snwa.com. 

·        Get inspired. Visit one of the community’s demonstration gardens to see the variety of plants that thrive in Southern Nevada. You’ll be amazed at what blooms in the desert. You also can sign up for free landscaping classes at the Gardens at the Spring Preserve.

·        Develop a master plan and budget. Draw up a landscape plan that outlines where you want particular plants and trees. 

·        Check to see if your sprinkler system’s existing pipes can be converted to a drip system.

·        Buy starter plants.  Choose plants in one-gallon containers instead of five-gallon containers- they cost less and will "catch up" to those more mature plants in a season or two.

·        Mulch, Mulch, Mulch.  Whether you choose woods chips, rocks or crushed granite, mulches prevent soil erosion and water evaporation.

In the meantime, winter watering restrictions are in effect through the end of February. Properties can only water on the one-day assigned to their watering group. And remember: turn off your entire irrigation system during rainy weather and your sprinkler system on windy days.

To find your watering group, or sign up for the Water Smart Landscapes rebate program visit snwa.com or call the Conservation Helpline at (702) 258-SAVE.