Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas for Sacramento

Sacramento summers are hot and dry. A water-wise yard can still look full and colorful — it starts with the right plants and irrigation, not just rock and gravel.

Plants that do well here

• Lavender, salvia, and Russian sage for color
• Ornamental grasses for texture
• California natives such as manzanita and ceanothus
• Succulents and agave for structure in sunny spots

Layout tips

• Group plants by water need so irrigation is simpler
• Use drip instead of spray heads where possible
• Swap high-water lawn for mulch, rock, or low ground covers
• Keep a small turf area only if you will actually use it

Some Sacramento-area water providers run rebate programs for lawn conversion — check with your utility before you start; programs and amounts change. Even without a rebate, less lawn usually means a lower water bill over time.