Landscaping in Greensboro, NC
It was not a pretty site for many small landscape companies last year. Drought conditions in the Piedmont Triad area were severe. If a company was without landscape contracts, they were without business. Many plant nurseries also suffered. It was like a domino effect.
The winter of 2007 we were blessed with much needed precipitation in the form of ice, snow or rain to bring water levels up again. I wouldn't say we are in the clear but we are much better off.
Many people have been cited for watering their lawns. I say, just let it go for now. Grassy areas are the most affordable fixes. You may have an unsightly lawn for the growing season, but can be remedied easily.
If you need to have a beautiful landscape regardless, think about incorporating more hard surface areas like; stone, brick or wood patios, pea gravel car-parks or courtyards, rock gardens, dry creek beds (they are great for natural areas) and of course planting those tough little plants that can withstand our harsh summers.
Lawn areas are definitely higher maintenance and suck up more water because of the shallow root systems. I do not recommend to completely do away with grassy areas, maybe just downsize. If you have a large lot there are many plant varieties that will cover vast areas quickly.
I Dig Dirt
Diana