1. Use the charts on this Web site to check the mature plant size to ensure you are selecting the right plant for the right place. View plants by grouping (trees, shrubs, vines, cacti, etc.) by using the 'Plant Selection' navigation on this page.
2. Select and group plants with similar water needs to create a landscape that is easier to maintain and more water efficient. Use the Advanced Search to select very low, low, and moderate water use choices.
3. If your local nurseries do not carry the plants you are looking for, ask if they can order them. Print out the Plant List and take it with you, or contact your local water provider to receive a print version of this publication.
4. Check with your homeowner's association CC&Rs to determine if there are plant selection restrictions for your neighborhood.
5. Visit the plant selection page for help. You'll find information on new plant introductions, plants for specific uses (seasonal color, poolscaping, rabbit resistance), and examples of plant combinations.

THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF XERISCAPE: For additional guidance through the landscape process, follow the seven principles of Xeriscape listed below. These principles will help you create and maintain beautiful outdoor livings spaces that use less water.
Good Landscape Planning & Design Low-Water-Use Plants Appropriate Turf (Lawn) Areas Efficient Irrigation Soil Improvements Use of Mulches Appropriate Maintenance

For more information on how to Xeriscape your home, see the booklet Xeriscape: Landscaping with Style in the Arizona Desert, available from your city water conservation office.

AMWUA in cooperation with the Arizona Department of Water Resources will soon be launching webspace for Xeriscape landscaping. The interactive guide, based on the publication Xeriscape: Landscaping with Style in the Arizona Desert, will supply both inspiration and how-to information on creating a Xeriscape landscape. In the meantime, please use these references for xeriscape landscaping.

• Get a copy of Xeriscape: Landscaping with Style
• Xeriscape landscapes
• Local Xeriscape Demonstration Gardens
• Converting to Xeriscape, City of Chandler
• Designing a Dazzling Desert Landscape, Chandler
• Installing a Desert Landscape, Chandler
• Principles of Xeriscape, Chandler
• Water. Use It Wisely
• Landscape Watering Reminder, Mesa
• Xeriscape information, City of Peoria
• Landscape Plans, City of Phoenix

The Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA) is a voluntary, non-profit corporation established by municipalities in Maricopa County for the development of urban water resources policy.