Landscape Contractor in Scottsdale, AZ

How do you design a landscape that survives Scottsdale summers?

Start with plants and materials that already tolerate 110°F heat, intense UV and limited rain, then water them with drip irrigation sized to each zone. Add shade where people sit, use pale or natural stone that reflects heat, and grade the yard so monsoon storms drain away from the house.

Key design rules we follow

• Hydrozoning: group plants by water need so cacti are not overwatered and shade trees get deep soakings.
• Shade first: place palo verde, mesquite or a pergola on the west and south sides where afternoon sun is harshest.
• Cooler surfaces: travertine and light pavers stay more comfortable underfoot than dark concrete.
• Soil prep: break through caliche in planting pits so roots and water can move down.

What is the difference between xeriscape and a rock yard?

A rock yard is mostly gravel with few plants. Xeriscape is a planned landscape that uses low-water plants, mulch or decomposed granite and efficient irrigation to create color, shade and texture while cutting water use. A good xeriscape feels green and lived in, not empty, and often costs less to maintain than a lawn.

How do caliche and clay soils affect a landscape build?

Caliche is a hard, cement-like layer common across Maricopa County. It blocks roots and traps water, which can drown plants in a pocket of wet soil. Expansive clay swells when wet and shrinks when dry, which can shift poorly built hardscape. We address both before installation:

1. Dig test holes to find caliche depth.
2. Break through or bore drainage chimneys in tree pits.
3. Compact and stabilize base under patios and walkways.
4. Set grades so water does not sit against slabs or foundations.

Should you hire one contractor for landscaping, hardscape and irrigation?

For most projects, yes. One contractor coordinates grades, pipe routes, base material and planting so nothing has to be torn out later. Separate trades often work around each other, which can lead to sleeves left out under pavers, drip lines cut during excavation, or drainage blocked by a new wall.

Elevated Grounds builds the whole yard in-house, including hardscaping, irrigation installation and synthetic turf. That keeps one schedule, one point of contact and one team responsible for the finished result.

What should you ask a landscape contractor before hiring?

• Are you licensed with the Arizona ROC? (Ours is ROC #361161.)
• Are you bonded and insured for residential and commercial work?
• Will the estimate list scope and materials in writing?
• How will you handle drainage and caliche on my lot?
• Who do I call with questions during the project?

How do you keep a desert landscape low maintenance?

Choose slow-growing, well-spaced plants, use weed barrier and rock where it makes sense, and install a smart controller with a seasonal schedule. Flush drip filters and check emitters a few times a year, since hard water can leave scale. Prune desert trees lightly in late winter, and let natives keep their natural shape for a healthier, tidier yard.

We serve Scottsdale and nearby communities including Maricopa and the rest of Maricopa County.