Illinois Xeriscaping Guide
Published: June 6, 2026 · Updated:
Drought-tolerant landscaping plans for 11 Illinois cities across USDA zones 5b, 6a. Find native plants, water-saving strategies, and xeriscape designs for your specific location.
Water Restriction Level: low
Water conservation is becoming increasingly important across the US as drought patterns shift. Xeriscaping reduces outdoor water use by 50–75%.
What drives landscape water use in Illinois
Continental with hot humid summers; the native prairie flora is deep-rooted and drought-resilient once established.
Mean annual precipitation across Illinois spans about 32 to 48 inches, and the state covers USDA hardiness zones 5b, 6a. That spread matters more than any single statewide number: the wettest and driest parts of Illinois need different plant palettes and different irrigation entirely, which is why the zone for your own city is the figure to plan against rather than a state average.
Plant genera native to Illinois
These genera are native to Illinois and are the backbone of low-water planting here. Starting from natives matters because they evolved with the local rainfall pattern and soil, so once established they generally need no irrigation beyond what the climate provides.
Listed at genus level deliberately. Which species within a genus is native varies across Illinois, so check the species with a local native plant society or extension office before buying.
USDA Zones in Illinois
Turf removal rebates in Illinois
We have not verified a residential turf removal rebate at any Illinois water provider. Programs of this kind are concentrated in the arid south west, where utilities pay per square foot to cut peak summer demand. Some Illinois utilities do offer irrigation-equipment or fixture rebates instead, which are worth asking about, but they are not the same thing as being paid to remove grass. Check with your own provider rather than assuming, and see our turf removal rebate comparison for the cities that do pay.
Xeriscaping Principles for Illinois
1. Plan and Design
Start with a water-efficient landscape plan that groups plants by water needs. Place high-water plants (if any) closest to the house and low-water plants further away.
2. Improve Soil
Amend soil with compost to improve water retention in sandy soils and drainage in clay soils. Healthy soil holds more moisture and supports deeper root systems.
3. Reduce Turf Area
Limit conventional lawn to areas that serve a functional purpose (play areas, pathways). Replace decorative turf with native plants, ground covers, or mulch.
4. Choose Low-Water Plants
Select native and adapted plants suited to your USDA zone. Native plants have evolved with local rainfall patterns and typically need no supplemental irrigation once established.
5. Mulch Generously
Apply 5–10cm of organic mulch (or gravel in desert climates) around all plantings. Mulch reduces evaporation by up to 70%, suppresses weeds, and moderates soil temperature.
6. Irrigate Efficiently
If irrigation is needed, use drip systems or soaker hoses rather than sprinklers. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Water before 9am to reduce evaporation.
7. Maintain Appropriately
Proper maintenance reduces water waste. Keep mulch refreshed, prune to reduce water demand, and adjust irrigation seasonally. A well-maintained xeriscape improves over time.
Illinois cities and their USDA zones
Your hardiness zone is the single most useful number for choosing plants, so this is every Illinois city we hold, with its zone. Cities shown as links have their own guide because they run a verified turf rebate worth explaining on its own page. For the rest, the zone below plus the state palette above is the plan: their local advice would not differ from what is on this page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is xeriscaping worth it in Illinois?
Yes. Illinois has low-level water restrictions. Xeriscaping reduces outdoor water use by 50–75%, which translates to significant savings on water bills. While rebates are limited in Illinois, the long-term water and maintenance savings make xeriscaping a strong investment.
What USDA zones are in Illinois?
Illinois contains USDA hardiness zones 5b, 6a. Each zone has different drought-tolerant plant recommendations. Find your city below for zone-specific xeriscape plant lists.
Does Illinois offer xeriscaping rebates?
Rebate programs are limited in Illinois at the state level. However, some local water utilities may offer incentives. Contact your municipal water provider to check for local programs.
What are the best drought-tolerant plants for Illinois?
The best plants depend on your specific USDA zone within Illinois. Generally, native plants adapted to Illinois's climate are the best choices: they evolved with local rainfall patterns and soil conditions. Browse your city guide below for zone-specific recommendations.
How much does xeriscaping cost in Illinois?
Professional xeriscaping in Illinois typically costs $5–$20 per square foot depending on design complexity, plant selection, and hardscape elements. DIY approaches can reduce costs to $1–$5 per square foot. The investment typically pays for itself within 3–5 years through reduced water bills and maintenance costs.