Using colorful rock in your desert landscape can simulate water, add drama and highlight certain features.

Using Rock to Add Color to Your Desert Landscape

Rocks and rock features are a common element of  desert landscaping in Las Vegas. Rocks don’t need water, and they help keep the ground underneath moist. However, rock holds heat, so only using rock can increase the temperature around your home. It can also look rather drab. The key is finding the balance of textures and colors to create an inviting space. Here are some ideas for using natural and colored rock to enhance your landscape.

Water, Water, Everywhere

You can also use natural blue rock, blue painted rock, or tumbled blue glass to give an appearance of water. This can help create a visual cooling effect. A mock stream of blue pebbles running through the landscape can help tie different elements of the design together. To add texture, have a small bridge crossing the “stream.” If you plan on having a small water feature, a faux stream running from or around it can make this water feature seem larger while still limiting the amount of water used.

Highlights and Accents

While you’ll want to use mainly light colored rock to keep the temperature down, spots of darker colored rock and sand can add variety to your design. A circle of colored rock can serve to highlight sitting areas or other features. Using contrasting colors of rock can also add visual appeal. For example, you can create a path using different colors of flagstone, or using contrasting colors of flagstone and fill. The possibilities are virtually endless.

Putting It All Together

Rock can be more than just a filler for a desert landscape. It can also be used to add drama and interest. Whichever way you choose to use rock in your landscape, be sure to balance the rock with other elements. Plants such as Jerusalem sage and red-hot poker add color, and drought-tolerant grasses can soften the edges. With a little planning and creativity, you can have a delightful backyard environment regardless of the climate you live in.