TEXAS — As Texas endures scorching summer temperatures and a lack of rain, some homeowners are turning to native plants and grasses to save money, conserve water and keep their yards green.
Amy Martin’s Dallas yard is a little unconventional. Instead of the typical Bermuda or St. Augustine grass, Martin has opted for native greenery.
“This is a wonderful plant called Elephant’s foot,” said Martin.
Martin said she has been interested in native landscaping for decades.
“But I’ve been into it about, seriously, for 30 years,” she said.
Her yard features a variety of native plants, including some of her favorites.
The native plant and grass movement has been gaining attention as extreme heat and drought conditions make traditional landscaping more difficult to maintain. Advocates say native plants can help support healthier ecosystems while reducing water use and potentially create cooler outdoor areas.
Mary Sirgo, executive director of the Native Plant Society of Texas, said homeowners are increasingly recognizing both the environmental and financial benefits.
“The savings and water costs. They also understand the support native plants provide to pollinators,” Sirgo said.
The Native Plant Society of Texas has spent 45 years educating Texans about the importance of protecting and expanding the state’s natural landscape. Martin is a member of the organization’s Dallas chapter.
The organization also works with local governments and homeowners associations on native landscaping efforts.
“Local municipalities, they work with HOAs and they have that region-specific voice,” said Sirgo.
Several Texas cities, including Austin, San Antonio and Fort Worth, offer rebate programs to homeowners who convert portions of their yards to native landscaping.
The society also advocates at the Texas Capitol. The organization helped pass a 2013 law that prevents homeowners associations from banning native grasses in residential landscaping.
For Martin, her unconventional yard has earned her a reputation in the neighborhood, but she said there is a reason behind the landscaping choices.
“I’m known as the wild yard on the block, you know, but there’s purpose to everything I’ve put here,” she said.