Sustainable Landscape Guide for Mesa, AZ

Searching for a reliable landscape designer in Mesa? Eighty-Eight Acres specializes in sustainable, locally inspired outdoor transformations. Explore our free Sustainable Landscape Design Guide for Mesa, AZ—packed with expert tips to get you started. Ready for more help? We’re here to bring your vision to life

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Building Blocks of a Sustainable Landscape

At Eighty-Eight Acres, our experience designing sustainable landscapes in Mesa, AZ has shown us that true sustainability is rooted in three essential characteristics: water conservation, habitat restoration, and human well-being. A successful desert landscape must use water wisely, support local ecosystems, and create meaningful, livable spaces for people. When these elements work together, your landscape becomes more than just beautiful—it becomes a thriving, resilient environment that gives back to both nature and you.

Water Conservation

In the Arizona desert, water is life. That’s why the foundation of any sustainable landscape in Mesa is smart water conservation. A water-wise landscape isn’t just responsible—it’s resilient, beautiful, and built to thrive year-round in our arid climate. Here are some resources that will help you build the foundation for your water conservation strategy:

AMWUA Xeriscaping: Landscaping with Style in the Arizona Desert

Water Use it Wisely: Interactive Watering Guides

Water Use It Wisely: Guide to Programming Your Irrigation Controller

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use

Habitat Restoration

A healthy landscape supports more than just people—it invites life. Sustainable design restores habitat by incorporating native plants and features that attract pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects. Read more from these links about restoring habitat in your yard:

Landscape Plants for the Arizona Desert

City of Glendale: Welcome Wildlife to Your Garden

National Wildlife Federation: Certified Wildlife Habitat

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Integrated Pest Management for the Home Garden

Human Well-Being

Sustainability also means creating landscapes that sustain you. Whether it’s a peaceful retreat, a place to gather, or a garden that feeds your family, your outdoor space should nurture both body and mind. Use the links below will to figure out how your landscape can support you:

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Ten Steps to a Successful Vegetable Garden

Desert Harvesters: Native Food Plants

Benefits of Urban Trees

Resources for Mesa Residents

As a resident you are eligible for certain benefits and programs provided by your local Water Conservation office. Read more about some of these benefits at the links below:

Water Conservation Website

Grass-to-Xeriscape Rebate Program

Living Green Videos on Demand

Shade Tree Program

Services we provide in Mesa, AZ

Landscape Consultation

Every project begins with an on-site consultation to discuss your goals and evaluate the site.

Concept Sketch

Our value design includes a refined aerial from the consultation, with design notes, plant recommendations, and resources.

Landscape Masterplan

Our full-service design includes complete planning, design, and documentation, with final construction documents ready for contractor bidding.

Additional Services

Hourly Services as Needed

Maintenance Plans

Plant List / Plant Selection

HOA Approval

Construction Observation

Rebate Documentation

Our Work in Mesa

The Challenge

For this project Eight-Eight Acres was asked to prepare a Landscape Master Plan to rethink the front yard of this Mesa home. The existing yard featured a patch of grass that was rarely used by the homeowner and a large pine tree. The client wished to convert the grass to a xeriscape-based landscape that could provide habitat for Monarch Butterflies. This design change created a challenge for the survival of the pine tree which was needed to provide shade from the Western exposure. 

The Result

Our solution focused on shifting the entire yard design to focus on native and low-water use plants. Pine trees have a higher water demand that native trees, so instead of focusing on trying to keep the pine tree our design focuses on replacing the pine tree with several native varieties. Another integral part of this project is the passive rainwater harvesting system which collects water from the roof and concentrates it in areas within the yard to provide supplemental water to the native plants. The foundations of shade and water help us to provide the right environment for the Monarch supporting plants desired by the client.   

Frequently Asked Questions

  • At Eighty-Eight Acres, we proudly serve homeowners across every corner of Mesa, Arizona. Whether you're tucked away in the historic charm of Downtown Mesa, enjoying the mountain views in Las Sendas, or living in the vibrant communities of Eastmark or Mulberry, we're here to bring thoughtful, sustainable landscape design to your doorstep. No matter where you are in Mesa, we’re ready to help you transform your outdoor space into something beautiful, functional, and connected to the desert environment.


  • We don’t provide free consultations, but the consultation fee delivers significant value. You’ll get a full hour of personalized, expert guidance along with a detailed site plan that captures key points from our conversation. Many clients find this session alone offers a strong foundation to build on. Plus, the fee isn’t an added expense—it's fully credited toward any design services you decide to pursue with us.


  • The short answer? It varies. Timelines depend on the complexity of the project, your availability, and the specific service you select. Concept Sketches are generally ready in 2–4 weeks, while more comprehensive Landscape Master Plans may take 1–2 months. We’re committed to keeping you informed throughout and ensuring steady progress—without sacrificing creativity or quality.


  • At Eighty-Eight Acres, environmental stewardship is at the heart of every design. Through thoughtful, practical choices—such as harvesting rainwater, creating pollinator-friendly gardens, or enriching soil with organic mulch—we help your landscape thrive in harmony with the local ecosystem. We approach each project as a contribution to a healthier, more resilient environment. Because every property is unique, we tailor sustainable solutions to suit your needs and make it simple to turn your vision into reality.


  • At Eighty-Eight Acres, we focus exclusively on design. However, we’re happy to connect you with reliable installers we trust. This separation ensures your plan is crafted around your vision—not shaped by an installer’s agenda. It also gives you the freedom to gather multiple bids and select the option that best suits your budget. Our independent design process allows for greater creativity and flexibility than you might find with traditional design/build firms.


Let’s Talk!

Request a consultation today.

Areas Served in Arizona

  • Phoenix

  • Mesa

  • Gilbert

  • Glendale