As energy conservation becomes a major concern across the country, general contractors need to learn alternative methods for building, remodeling, and landscaping. This helps to gain additional business from those who are energy conscious now, and for when regulations change in the future. One method of helping homeowners who want to reduce energy costs is the creation of Xeriscape Yards. Xeriscape or zero landscape yards, is a type of sustainable landscaping created to reduce the amount of water used to maintain a yard. It was created and implemented in areas where droughts are common. However, with the increase awareness of the strain on our natural resources, Xeriscaped yards are gaining popularity in other climates as well. A Xeriscape yard takes planning to make sure that all of the materials used the size of the yard, even the slope of the land, all helps to reduce the need for water. This can include using types of soil and mulch that retain water, to using grasses and plants that are able to use water efficiently. These plants often have deep root systems, and if the ground is watered deeply a few times a week, they are able to absorb and hold the water for use during even the hottest weather. The plants used in a zero landscape yard have the added benefit of needing less maintenance then traditional landscaping. A Xeriscape yard alone isn’t enough to help a homeowner reduce water usage. Other energy efficient water systems should be used in combination with sustainable landscaping to help protect this natural resource. Recycling gray water from a home, collecting rain water, and using timed irrigation systems early in the morning help the homeowners receive the full benefits of a Xeriscaped yard. their choices when it comes to landscaping and remodeling.