5 Landscaping Tips For Every Utah Homeowner

A beautiful yard isn’t just about curb appeal—it’s about creating an outdoor space that works for your lifestyle, adds value to your home, and stands up to Utah’s ever-changing climate. Whether you’re starting from scratch, renovating an existing space, or simply looking to improve your lawn, the right approach to landscaping makes all the difference.

If you're searching for landscapers in the area, this guide is for you. These five tips are tailored specifically to Utah homeowners who want to get the most out of their outdoor spaces—without wasting time, money, or water.

Choose Plants That Thrive in Utah’s Climate

Utah’s high-desert environment is known for its dry air, hot summers, and cold winters. That means not every plant you see at the garden center is going to thrive in your yard. One of the most important tips we can offer is to choose regionally appropriate, drought-tolerant plants.Look for native and adaptive species that are accustomed to the unique conditions in Utah County.

Some great choices include:

Russian Sage – A hardy, flowering perennial that loves full sun.

Serviceberry – A native shrub that provides year-round interest and supports local wildlife.

Blue Grama Grass – A low-water ornamental grass ideal for modern and xeriscaped yards.

Yarrow – Drought-resistant and perfect for adding color with minimal maintenance.

By working with local landscapers in the area, you can get expert advice on which trees, shrubs, and flowers will thrive in your microclimate while requiring less water, fewer fertilizers, and minimal upkeep.

Invest in a Smart Irrigation System

Watering your yard isn’t as simple as turning on the sprinkler anymore—and in a state like Utah, where water conservation is a priority, it shouldn’t be.

A smart irrigation system can drastically improve efficiency by adjusting watering schedules based on weather, soil moisture, and time of year. These systems help you avoid overwatering, reduce waste, and lower your utility bill while keeping your lawn and plants healthy.

Full-service landscapers in the area can assess your current setup and recommend upgrades or new installations that align with Utah’s growing push for water-wise landscaping. Drip irrigation systems, moisture sensors, and smart controllers are all great tools that make watering effortless and eco-friendly.

Bonus tip: Always water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation and ensure deeper soil absorption.

Plan for All Four Seasons

One common landscaping mistake is designing a yard that only looks good in spring or summer. In Utah, you want to think about seasonal interest—choosing plants and materials that keep your yard visually appealing year-round.

Here’s how to build a four-season landscape:

Spring: Use flowering bulbs and blossoming trees like crabapple or cherry to welcome the season with color.

Summer: Choose heat-tolerant plants like lavender, ornamental grasses, and coneflowers.

Fall: Incorporate trees and shrubs with bold fall colors, such as maple, oak, or burning bush.

Winter: Evergreens, stonework, and lighting can maintain structure and interest even when plants are dormant.

Experienced landscapers in the area know how to layer textures, colors, and plant types so your yard doesn’t go dull when the temperature drops. They’ll also help integrate structural elements like boulders, pergolas, or fire pits that enhance visual impact year-round.

Incorporate Functional Hardscaping

Landscaping isn’t just about plants. Hardscaping—the use of stone, wood, concrete, and other non-living materials—provides the bones of your outdoor space. It defines areas, adds structure, and enhances both style and function.

Some popular hardscaping elements include:

• Patios and seating areas for relaxing and entertaining

  
  

• Retaining walls for sloped yards or added visual dimension

  
  

• Walkways and paths that connect different parts of the yard

  
  

• Raised garden beds for herbs or seasonal veggies

  
  

• Fire pits or outdoor fireplaces for cozy gatherings

Full-service landscapers in the area can help you design and install hardscapes that complement your home’s style and blend seamlessly with your plantings. Plus, hardscaping typically requires less maintenance and water, making it a smart investment in the long run.

If you’re short on space, hardscape features can even help you make the most of smaller areas—think vertical gardens, stone courtyards, or integrated seating built into retaining walls.

Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance

Even the most beautifully designed landscape will fall flat without proper upkeep. Routine maintenance is key to protecting your investment and keeping your outdoor space vibrant and healthy.

Essential lawn and landscape maintenance tasks include:

• Mowing and edging weekly or biweekly during the growing season

  
  

• Fertilizing at the right time of year for your grass and plants

  
  

• Weeding and mulching to control growth and conserve moisture

  
  

• Seasonal pruning for shrubs, hedges, and trees

  
  

• Leaf and debris removal in spring and fall

  
  

• Irrigation system checks to prevent leaks or clogs

  
  

Many homeowners find it hard to stay on top of these tasks, which is why they turn to trusted landscapers in the area for ongoing support. Professional maintenance packages can be customized to your needs—whether it’s weekly lawn care, monthly garden check-ins, or seasonal cleanups.

Bonus: Landscapers can also spot potential problems early, like pests, diseases, or soil issues, and resolve them before they turn into costly damage.

Work with Local Experts Who Understand Utah Landscapes

When it comes to transforming your yard into a usable, beautiful, and sustainable space, working with professionals who truly understand the local environment makes all the difference. Skilled landscapers in the area know the unique challenges of Utah County—like high-altitude sun exposure, water restrictions, and alkaline soil—and tailor their solutions accordingly.

At Sable Hills Landscaping, we specialize in helping Utah homeowners turn ordinary outdoor spaces into stunning retreats. From custom design and hardscaping to plant installation and lawn maintenance, we offer full-service solutions built for our climate and community.

Whether you’re upgrading your current yard or starting fresh, our team brings local expertise, creativity, and craftsmanship to every project.

Final Thoughts: Start Small or Go Big—But Start Smart

Landscaping your yard doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re making a few seasonal upgrades or planning a full property transformation, these five tips will help guide your decisions and ensure lasting success.

And remember—working with experienced landscapers in the area isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about creating a personalized space that adds comfort, functionality, and value to your home, while respecting the unique demands of Utah’s landscape.

Ready to refresh your outdoor space? Contact Sable Hills Landscaping for a free consultation and discover why we're one of the top-rated landscapers in the area. Let us bring your dream yard to life—Utah style.

Looking for a landscaper near you? Call us at (801) 367-0945 to learn more.