San Diego residents are increasingly turning to xeriscaping as a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing solution to combat ongoing drought conditions and rising water costs. This landscaping method, which emphasizes the use of native and drought-tolerant plants, is gaining popularity throughout the county, transforming traditional water-intensive lawns into vibrant, water-wise gardens. Xeriscaping, derived from the Greek word "xeros" meaning dry, is more than just planting cacti and succulents.