Will my Teravista HOA approve a xeriscape?

Yes, but you'll need to submit a landscape plan showing defined beds, edging, and a mix of softscape (plants) and hardscape (gravel, decomposed granite). Pure rock-and-cactus designs typically get rejected. Our network includes designers who've successfully gotten 50+ Teravista xeriscapes approved.

How do I protect my foundation when removing lawn?

This is critical in Round Rock's clay soil. Pros maintain a 3-4 foot 'moisture buffer' of consistent plantings around your foundation, often using drip irrigation on a separate zone. The goal is preventing the dramatic wet-dry cycles that cause slab movement.

What happens to my water bill after xeriscaping?

Round Rock homeowners typically see 50-70% reduction in outdoor water use. On a $350 summer water bill, that's $175-245/month in savings. The project often pays for itself in 2-3 years through utility savings alone.

Can I do a partial xeriscape (just the front yard)?

Absolutely—and it's often the smartest approach. Front yards are the biggest water wasters and most visible for curb appeal. Many Round Rock homeowners xeriscape the front while keeping a small turf play area in back for kids or pets.

Round Rock, TX Landscaping

Your St. Augustine is dying again. Here's the permanent fix.

Every August in Round Rock, we see the same story: homeowners in Teravista and Forest Creek watching their water bills hit $400+ while their grass turns brown anyway. The city's watering restrictions make it nearly impossible to keep traditional turf alive through triple-digit heat.

The real cost of waiting: Without intervention, you'll spend $2,000-4,000 replacing dead sod next spring—only to repeat the cycle. Meanwhile, your foundation suffers from inconsistent soil moisture as you alternate between drought stress and desperate over-watering.

Midday overcast shot of xeric front yard replacement with decomposed granite and agave

Get matched with Round Rock specialists

Tell us about your project and we'll connect you with 2-3 vetted pros within 24 hours.

Get Free Quotes

Typical investment $4,000 - $20,000 (Cost depends heavily on total square footage of turf removal and density of new plantings.)

Why Round Rock xeriscaping requires local knowledge

Round Rock sits on heavy black clay ("Houston Black" series) that cracks and heaves—plant selection must account for root systems that won't be damaged by soil movement
The Brushy Creek watershed has specific runoff requirements; poorly planned xeriscapes can actually increase erosion into protected waterways
HOAs in Paloma Lake and Teravista have specific approved plant lists—experienced designers know which native alternatives get approved without lengthy variance requests
Local nurseries like Barton Springs and Natural Gardener stock Round Rock-proven cultivars that big-box stores don't carry

Round Rock cost factors to budget for

Clay soil amendment +10-15% (expanded shale and compost needed for drainage)

HOA design approval process $200-500 if professional renderings required

Irrigation conversion from spray to drip $800-2,000 depending on existing system age

Questions to ask Round Rock contractors

Use these to separate experienced local pros from generalists who don't know the area.

1 Have you worked with the Teravista/Paloma Lake/Forest Creek HOA before? Can you show me an approved design?
2 How do you handle the clay soil here—what amendments do you use?
3 What's your approach to foundation protection when removing lawn near the house?
4 Which local nurseries do you source plants from?
5 Do you offer a plant replacement warranty for the first year?

Best time to start

October-November or March-April. Avoid summer installations—transplant shock kills plants in 100°+ heat, and you'll pay premium rates for crews willing to work in it.

Popular in these Round Rock neighborhoods

Teravista Paloma Lake Forest Creek Brushy Creek

Xeriscaping & Drought-Resistant Design questions from Round Rock homeowners

Frequently asked questions

Will my Teravista HOA approve a xeriscape?
Yes, but you'll need to submit a landscape plan showing defined beds, edging, and a mix of softscape (plants) and hardscape (gravel, decomposed granite). Pure rock-and-cactus designs typically get rejected. Our network includes designers who've successfully gotten 50+ Teravista xeriscapes approved.
How do I protect my foundation when removing lawn?
This is critical in Round Rock's clay soil. Pros maintain a 3-4 foot 'moisture buffer' of consistent plantings around your foundation, often using drip irrigation on a separate zone. The goal is preventing the dramatic wet-dry cycles that cause slab movement.
What happens to my water bill after xeriscaping?
Round Rock homeowners typically see 50-70% reduction in outdoor water use. On a $350 summer water bill, that's $175-245/month in savings. The project often pays for itself in 2-3 years through utility savings alone.
Can I do a partial xeriscape (just the front yard)?
Absolutely—and it's often the smartest approach. Front yards are the biggest water wasters and most visible for curb appeal. Many Round Rock homeowners xeriscape the front while keeping a small turf play area in back for kids or pets.

Ready to talk to Round Rock specialists?

We'll match you with 2-3 vetted pros who know Round Rock's terrain, codes, and neighborhoods. Free quotes, no obligation.

Get Free Quotes in 24 Hours