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Native plants are gaining ground as a practical and sustainable solution for local residents facing ongoing drought and rising water costs.
In Bastrop County, where water conservation is a growing concern, officials from the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District are encouraging homeowners and cities to explore native landscaping as both an environmental and economic strategy.
“Native plants are a valuable tool for water conservation efforts in our region,” said Claire Marks, education and outreach coordinator for the district. “Once established, they require little to no additional watering, making them well-suited for Texas’ hot summers and prolonged dry periods.”
Unlike traditional turf grass, which demands frequent irrigation and often struggles in dry conditions, native plants develop deep roots that access moisture from further below the surface. This not only reduces the need for watering, officials said, but also allows more rainwater to soak into the soil, supporting long-term groundwater recharge and reserves. The deep percolation also helps reduce runoff, prevent erosion and mitigate flooding, Marks added.
According to the district, the cost savings can be significant. Maintaining a standard 6,500-square-foot lawn with turf grass can cost about $1,300 a year, while switching to native landscaping can reduce that figure to just $390.
“That’s a 70% savings, making native plants a smart, budget-friendly choice for homeowners looking to cut costs while also benefiting the environment,” Marks said.
Local grass options include buffalograss, blue grama and little bluestem. Graystone Gardens and Community Gardens are two Bastrop-based businesses that can help residents make the switch, as well as offer native flowering plants like blackfoot daisy, Turk’s cap and yarrow.
In addition to water savings, native plants help filter pollutants and absorb and break down contaminants from fertilizers and pesticides—protecting nearby rivers, streams and aquifers, district officials said.
“Incorporating native plants into our landscapes is more than just a practical choice,” Marks said. “It’s a commitment to conservation, sustainability and preserving the natural beauty of Texas.”
