In East Austin I spotted this attractive waterwise front yard and patio with feathergrass, hesperaloe, firecracker fern, and fall aster.… Read More The post Drive-By Garden: Waterwise front yard and patio appeared first on Digging. June 30, 2023 Driving around the Delwood neighborhood in East Austin last week I spotted this attractive waterwise front yard. A huge crape myrtle shades one side of the midcentury-style home, sheltering a small patio beneath its branches. On the sunny side, Mexican feathergrass, giant hesperaloe, firecracker fern, and fall aster enjoy a fairly open placement, mulched with gravel. A driveway of alternating concrete strips and gravel allows rainwater to percolate through. In the narrow side yard, a tall hedge of ‘Will Fleming’ yaupon, nicely pruned, provides privacy and enclosure. A curved path of concrete pavers meanders under the crape myrtle to the avocado-green door. In the shade, dwarf Texas palmetto, lamb’s ears, and cast-iron plant shrug off heat or cold. Loose gravel — not decomposed granite — means fewer weeds. And I love the concrete circle that delineates a simple gravel patio with two benches near the door. The talented Casey Boyter designed this lovely space. Check out this other garden in her portfolio for more inspiration. And around the block… As I drove off and rounded the block, I spotted these cool cats in another yard: a patch of shade-wearing prickly pear! Does anything sum up a hot Texas summer better than this? I welcome your comments. Please scroll to the end of this post to leave one. If you’re reading in an email, click here to visit Digging and find the comment box at the end of each post. And hey, did someone forward this email to you, and you want to subscribe? Click here to get Digging delivered directly to your inbox! __________________________ Digging Deeper Come learn about garden design from the experts at Garden Spark! I organize in-person talks by inspiring designers, landscape architects, and authors a few times a year in Austin. These are limited-attendance events that sell out quickly, so join the Garden Spark email list to be notified in advance. Simply click this link and ask to be added. Season 7 start“>arts in August. Stay tuned for the lineup! All material © 2023 by Pam Penick for Digging. Unauthorized reproduction prohibited. The post Drive-By Garden: Waterwise front yard and patio appeared first on Digging.