What is a best practice for selecting plants in arid environments?

Selecting drought-tolerant and native plants is a best practice for landscaping in arid environments due to their adaptability to the local climate conditions. Native plants have evolved to thrive in specific environments and are well-suited to handle the limited water availability typical of arid regions. These plants often require less maintenance, reduce the need for irrigation, and are more resilient to pests and diseases prevalent in their native habitat.

Drought-tolerant plants are specifically adapted to conserve water, which is crucial for sustainability in areas where water resources are limited. By choosing these types of plants, landscapers can create a visually appealing landscape while also conserving water, reducing maintenance costs, and promoting biodiversity by providing habitats for local wildlife.

In contrast, selecting exotic plants from tropical climates may lead to high water demands and increased maintenance challenges as they may struggle to adapt to dry conditions. Opting for any flowering plants without considering their water requirements or native status can also result in unsuccessful landscaping efforts in arid areas. Additionally, selecting plants without taking climate into account generally results in poor plant health and increased resource use, which contradicts the principles of sustainable landscaping.