The Art of Landscaping in Las Vegas: A Beginners Guide
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The Art of Landscaping in Las Vegas: A Beginners Guide! Best vegas landscapers Nevada. Oh, isnt it just splendid to have a green, lush garden in your backyard?
The Art of Landscaping in Las Vegas: A Beginners Guide - Desert Plants And Gravel Landscaping Las Vegas
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Well, let me tell you, its a whole different ball game when youre in Las Vegas.
Las Vegas, famously known as "Sin City", is not typically known for its landscapes, being a city in the desert. But, that doesnt mean its impossible to have a beautiful, green landscape in your backyard! Quite the contrary. (I bet you didnt see that coming, did you?)
First things first, youve got to understand the soil. Las Vegas soil is infamously hard and dry, making it hard (but not impossible) for plants to grow. Its necessary to amend the soil with organic matter, like compost or manure, to improve its fertility. Dont worry, its not as complicated as it sounds!
Watering is another concern. You might think, "Oh no, I cant possibly have a garden in Las Vegas, its too dry!" But thats where youre wrong. You see, Las Vegas might be dry, but that doesnt mean you cant water your plants. You just have to do it smartly. Water during the cooler parts of the day (like early morning or late evening) to minimize evaporation.
Now, what about the plants? Well, you cant just plant anything.
The Art of Landscaping in Las Vegas: A Beginners Guide - Desert Plants And Gravel Landscaping Las Vegas
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Youve got to choose plants that can tolerate the Las Vegas climate. Therere plenty of options, though. Desert plants, like cacti and succulents, are a classic choice. But, if thats not your cup of tea, there are other hardy plants like the Red Yucca or the Desert Marigold that can also thrive in this climate.
And then theres the design. Ah, the design! Its not just about throwing some plants in the ground. No, landscaping is an art. Its about arranging the plants in a way thats pleasing to the eye. Think about color, texture, and height when youre designing your landscape.
In conclusion, landscaping in Las Vegas might seem like a daunting task, but its certainly not impossible. With a bit of knowledge (which you now have, thanks to this guide), a bit of effort, and a whole lot of love, you can create a beautiful, thriving landscape in your Las Vegas backyard. So why wait?
The Art of Landscaping in Las Vegas: A Beginners Guide - Landscape Services For Seniors Las Vegas
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Get out there and start gardening! Youve got this!
A sustainable garden is designed to be both attractive and in balance with the local climate and environment and it should require minimal resource inputs. Thus, the design must be “functional, cost-efficient, visually pleasing, environmentally friendly and maintainable".[2] As part of sustainable development, it pays close attention to preserving limited resources, reducing waste, and preventing air, water and soil pollution. Compost, fertilization, integrated pest management, using the right plant in the right place, appropriate use of turf and xeriscaping (water-wise gardening) are all components of sustainable landscaping.
Sustainability can help urban commercial landscaping companies save money.[3] In California, gardens often do not outweigh the cost of inputs like water and labor. However, using appropriately selected and properly sited plants may help to ensure that maintenance costs are lower because of reduced inputs.
Creating and enhancing wildlife habitat in urban environments[14]
Energy-efficient garden design in the form of proper placement and selection of shade trees and creation of wind breaks [15][16]
Permeable paving materials to reduce stormwater run-off and allow rain water to infiltrate into the ground and replenish groundwater rather than run into surface water[17][18]
Use of sustainably harvested wood, composite wood products for decking and other garden uses, as well as use of plastic lumber[19]
One step to garden design is to do a "sustainability audit". This is similar to a landscape site analysis that is typically performed by landscape designers at the beginning of the design process. Factors such as lot size, house size, local covenants and budgets should be considered. The steps to design include a base plan, site inventory and analysis, construction documents, implementation and maintenance.[2] Of great importance is considerations related to the growing conditions of the site. These include orientation to the sun, soil type, wind flow, slopes, shade and climate, the goal of reducing irrigation and use of toxic substances, and requires proper plant selection for the specific site.
Sustainable landscaping is not only important because it saves money, it also limits the human impact on the surrounding ecosystem. However, planting species not native to the landscape may introduce invasive plant species as well as new wildlife that was not in the ecosystem before. Altering the ecosystem is a major problem and meeting with an expert with experience with the wildlife and agriculture in the area will help avoid this.[26]
Mulch may be used to reduce water loss due to evaporation, reduce weeds, minimize erosion, dust and mud problems. Mulch can also add nutrients to the soil when it decomposes. However, mulch is most often used for weed suppression. Overuse of mulch can result in harm to the selected plantings. Care must be taken in the source of the mulch, for instance, black walnut trees result in a toxic mulch product. Grasscycling turf areas (using mulching mowers that leave grass clippings on the lawn) will also decrease the amount of fertilizer needed, reduce landfill waste and reduce costs of disposal.[27]
A common recommendation is to add 2-4 inches of mulch in flower beds and under trees away from the trunk. Mulch should be applied under trees to the dripline (extension of the branches) in lieu of flowers, hostas, turf or other plants that are often planted there. This practice of planting under trees is detrimental to tree roots, especially when such plants are irrigated to an excessive level that harms the tree. One must be careful not to apply mulch to the bark of the tree. It can result in smothering, mould and insect depredation.
The practice of xeriscaping or water-wise gardening suggests that placing plants with similar water demands together will save time and low-water or drought-tolerant plants would be a smart initial consideration.
A homeowner may consider consulting an accredited irrigation technician/auditor and obtain a water audit of current systems. Drip or sub-surface irrigation may be useful. Using evapotranspiration controllers, soil sensors and refined control panels will reduce water loss. Irrigation heads may need readjustment to avoid sprinkling on sidewalks or streets. Business owners may consider developing watering schedules based on historical or actual weather data and soil probes to monitor soil moisture prior to watering.[2]
An example of sustainable irrigation (Drip Irrigation)
When deciding what kind of building materials to put on a site it is important to recycle as often as possible, such as for example by reusing old bricks.
It is also important to be careful about what materials you use, especially if you plan to grow food crops. Old telephone poles and railroad ties have usually been treated with a toxic substance called creosote that can leach into the soils.
Sustainably harvested lumber is available, in which ecological, economic and social factors are integrated into the management of trees used for lumber.[28]
One important part of sustainable landscaping is plant selection. Most of what makes a landscape unsustainable is the amount of inputs required to grow a non-native plant on it. What this means is that a local plant, which has adapted to local climate conditions will require less work to flourish. Instead, drought-tolerant plants like succulents and cacti are better suited to survive.
Plants used as windbreaks can save up to 30% on heating costs in winter. They also help with shading a residence or commercial building in summer, create cool air through evapotranspiration and can cool hardscape areas such as driveways and sidewalks.[29]
Irrigation is an excellent end-use option in greywater recycling and rainwater harvesting systems, and a composting toilet can cover (at least) some of the nutrient requirements.[30] Not all fruit trees are suitable for greywater irrigation, as reclaimed greywater is typically of high pH and acidophile plants don't do well in alkaline environments.
Energy conservation may be achieved by placing broadleaf deciduous trees near the east, west and optionally north-facing walls of the house. Such selection provides shading in the summer while permitting large amounts of heat-carrying solar radiation to strike the house in the winter. The trees are to be placed as closely as possible to the house walls. As the efficiency of photovoltaic panels and passive solar heating is sensitive to shading, experts suggest the complete absence of trees near the south side.
Another choice would be that of a dense vegetative fence composed of evergreens (e.g. conifers) near that side from which cold continental winds blow and also that side from which the prevailing winds blow. Such a choice creates a winter windbreak that prevents low temperatures outside the house and reduces air infiltration towards the inside. Calculations show that placing the windbreak at a distance twice the height of the trees can reduce the wind velocity by 75%.[31]
The above vegetative arrangements come with two disadvantages. Firstly, they minimize air circulation in summer although in many climates heating is more important and costly than cooling, and, secondly, they may affect the efficiency of photovoltaic panels. However, it has been estimated that if both arrangements are applied properly, they can reduce the overall house energy usage by up to 22%.[31]
Lawns are often used as the center point of a landscape. While there are many different species of grass, only a limited amount are considered sustainable. Knowing the climate around the landscape is ideal for saving water and being sustainable. For example, in southern California having a grass lawn of tall fescue will typically need upwards of 1,365 cubic metres (360,500 US gal) of water. A lawn in the same place made up of mixed beds with various trees, shrubs, and ground cover will normally need 202 cubic metres (53,300 US gal) of water.[32] Having gravel, wood chips or bark, mulch, rubber mulch, artificial grass, patio, wood or composite deck, rock garden, or a succulent garden are all considered sustainable landscape techniques. Other species of plants other than grass that can take up a lawn are lantana, clover, creeping ivy, creeping thyme, oregano, rosemary hedges, silver pony foot, moneywort, chamomile, yarrow, creeping lily turf, ice plant, and stonecrop.[citation needed]
It is best to start with pest-free plant materials and supplies and close inspection of the plant upon purchase is recommended. Establishing diversity within the area of plant species will encourage populations of beneficial organisms (e.g. birds, insects), which feed on potential plant pests. Attracting a wide variety of organisms with a variety of host plants has shown to be effective in increasing pollinator presence in agriculture.[33] Because plant pests vary from plant to plant, assessing the problem correctly is half the battle. The owner must consider whether the plant can tolerate the damage caused by the pest. If not, then does the plant justify some sort of treatment? Physical barriers may help.[2] Landscape managers should make use of Integrated Pest Management to reduce the use of pesticides and herbicides.
Proper pruning will increase air circulation and may decrease the likelihood of plant diseases. However, improper pruning is detrimental to shrubs and trees.[2]
There are several programs in place that are open to participation by various groups. For example, the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for golf courses,[34] the Audubon Green Neighborhoods Program,[35] and the National Wildlife Federation’s Backyard Habitat Program,[36] to name a few.
The Sustainable Sites Initiative, began in 2005, provides a points-based certification for landscapes, similar to the LEED program for buildings operated by the Green Building Council. It has guidelines and performance benchmarks.[37]
^
Loehrlein, Marietta (26 September 2013). Sustainable Landscaping: Principles and Practices. CRC Press. ISBN9781466593206. Editor note: info in Wikipedia taken in November 2009 from her now defunct personal website and a class she gave on her former university webspace
^Cole, Lorna J.; Brocklehurst, Sarah; Robertson, Duncan; Harrison, William; McCracken, David I. (December 2015). "Riparian buffer strips: Their role in the conservation of insect pollinators in intensive grassland systems". Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment. 211: 207–220. Bibcode:2015AgEE..211..207C. doi:10.1016/j.agee.2015.06.012. ISSN0167-8809.
In 1952, reclusive casino and film executive Howard Hughes purchased 30,000 acres (12,000 ha) of land along the western edge of the Las Vegas Valley for $3 per acre in an area valued at $1.27 million in 2022 USD, according to development company, Howard Hughes Holdings.[2]
Despite initial intentions to reposition some of his business operations in Nevada, Hughes eventually chose not to relocate his core companies.[3] Even though Hughes did not relocate operations, he became the largest single land owner in Nevada by the early 1970s and, for a time, the largest employer in the state with over 8,000 on his payroll.[3] The land remained largely undeveloped for decades. In the mean time, the first large-scale master-planned community in Nevada, Green Valley in Henderson, began development
After Hughes' death in 1976 from kidney failure, his heirs organized the Summa Corporation (now Howard Hughes Holdings), named for Hughes's paternal grandmother Jean Amelia Summerlin, to manage his businesses and land holdings.[3][4][5]
To mitigate environmental impact, Summa Corporation made a deal with the Bureau of Land Management in which they traded 5,000 acres of environmentally sensitive land for 3,000 acres of land better suited for development.[6] After this environmental concern was addressed, development began. By the end of 1990, the construction of its first residential area, park, and school had been completed. In 1994, Summa Corporation rebranded itself as the Howard Hughes Corporation and continued to develop new areas of Summerlin.[3]
The Great Recession led to a temporary slowdown in new construction within Summerlin.[3] However, development activity increased significantly after 2014, highlighted by the opening of Downtown Summerlin, a 106-acre development featuring retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.[7]
Summers tend to be very hot and very dry, with daily highs often exceeding 100 °F (38 °C); temperatures as high as 118 degrees have been observed. The spring and fall seasons are generally sunny, warm, and dry, with daily highs in the 70s and 80s. Winters tend to be cool and windy, with daily highs in the 50s; temperatures seldom drop below freezing, and snowfall is rare, but some rain is common (especially in January and February).[9]
Downtown Summerlin is a 400-acre (160 ha) mixed-use district. It opened in 2014, and includes a 106-acre (43 ha) shopping center with more than 125 shops, bars, and restaurants.[22] It also features office and residential space.[23][24][25] In addition, Downtown Summerlin also includes two sports facilities:[26]
Local events are held in Downtown Summerlin throughout the year, including an annual art festival,[29][30] outdoor fitness classes, wine walks, holiday festivals, and visits from celebrity guest speakers.[citation needed]
The city's NHL franchise, the Vegas Golden Knights, practice at City National Arena in Summerlin. The arena also offers skating lessons, hosts youth and adult amateur hockey leagues, and trains competitive figure skaters.[32]
The UNLV Hockey team plays its home games at City National Arena in Summerlin.
Large community parks, which are available for free public use, are located throughout Summerlin. As of 2018[update], there are 25 community parks that feature a variety of recreational amenities, which may include: community centers, barbecue areas, walking trails, playgrounds, swimming pools, interactive water features, soccer fields, baseball fields, football fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, volleyball courts, bocce ball and shuffleboard courts, and motorized toy areas. In addition, the parks with community centers typically offer special events, classes, and children's camps.[33] Swimming pool access, sports field and court registration and league participation, facility rentals, and classes require a Summerlin identification card issued only to owners and tenants who live in an area governed by a Summerlin HOA.[34][35]
As of 2018, the Summerlin Trail System is more than 150 miles long and connects local neighborhoods to various amenities throughout the community.[36] The system includes five types of planned trails: street-side, village, bike, regional, and natural.
Upon completion, the trail system will be more than 200 miles long and will connect to more than 2,000 miles of regional trails, making it one of the most comprehensive and efficient trail systems in the southwestern United States.
In 2008, Summerlin and the Howard Hughes Corporation received the American Trails Developer Award, which is given to developers in recognition of "quality, well designed multi-use trails systems that are integrated into private developments."[37]
The adjacent Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers 26 hiking trails (ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous). The canyon is also suitable for bouldering and rock climbing and has an overnight camp site.[38]
In addition to the above-listed public schools, some Summerlin residents may be zoned for schools located just outside of the Summerlin boundaries (many families in Summerlin South, for example, are zoned for Durango High School in nearby Spring Valley).[39]
In addition to local government (either the City of Las Vegas or Clark County depending on jurisdiction), Summerlin is divided into community associations covering the north, south, west, and center, as well as separate community associations for Sun City Summerlin and the two gated country club developments (Siena and Red Red Country Club).[40][41] Homeowners and business owners contribute into each community association through monthly dues. The four main community associations contribute into and send representatives to the Summerlin Council, which is the owner and operator of the community centers and adjoining parks, swimming pools, and sports facilities in the community.[42] In addition, individual villages or townhome developments may have their own homeowners associations to govern their neighborhoods. Properties are also in a special improvement district to pay for public infrastructure, which is assessed annually as a bond payment.[43]
The Summerlin Hospital Medical Center, a private hospital operated by the Valley Health System, provides 485 beds to the local community. It is an accredited Chest Pain Center and Primary Stroke Center. Other features include: the Children's Medical Center, the Breast Care Center, the Cancer Center, the Rehab Center, and the Robotic Surgery Center. Its 40-acre campus is located in The Crossings village of Summerlin North.[44]
^Except for Summerlin South (which is within unincorporated Clark County and is a census-designated place). Neither Summerlin nor Summerlin South are municipalities, towns, or cities of their own. Keep in mind, the term "unincorporated" as in unincorporated towns has specific legal definition in Nevada. [1]
^PILOTS - Frequently Asked Questions. "The first few days of orientation are usually spent at Allegiant Air Headquarters in the Summerlin community in Las Vegas, NV". Accessed 13 July 2020.
Landscape layout is an independent occupation and a design and art custom, practiced by landscape developers, integrating nature and culture. In contemporary technique, landscape design bridges the area between landscape architecture and garden layout.
Henderson is notable for its extensive system of outdoor recreation facilities, including over 220 miles (350 km) of trails and 72 parks.[4]
Incorporated in 1953, Henderson was originally known for its role in magnesium production during World War II.[5] Since then, it has grown rapidly through the development of master planned communities starting with the large Green Valley neighborhood,[6][7] redevelopment and reinvestment after the PEPCON disaster,[8] and the city government's historically proactive planning and management.[9]
In the fall of 1917, manganese ore along with other metals were found at the site of the Three Kids Mine, a now-defunct mine adjacent to the Lake Las Vegas area 8 miles (13 km) northwest of Boulder City and 15 miles (24 km) southeast of Las Vegas.[10] Mining would continue intermittently until the mine was officially closed in 1961.[11]
Instead, there were clusters of Hoovervilles scattered throughout the area with a variety of names. Pittman, the most prominent settlement of what would become Henderson, still exists today —though not incorporated nor a city—was the most prominent of the settlements and is currently known, many of which remain neighborhood names today.[12]
Near a large magnesium mine, the area was chosen to build a two-mile long industrial complex to house the company chosen to run the operation, Basic Magnesium Incorporated (BMI), which would go on to have a massive impact on the development of Henderson.[15]
The War Department identified the area as being ideal for military industrial manufacturing. The area was at least 250 miles from the coast in between the McCullough Hills and River Mountains, protecting the area from low-altitude aircraft attacks. The area is also roughly halfway between the railroad line connecting Las Vegas to Los Angeles and Salt Lake and the Hoover Dam's water and electricity.[13][16]
In September 1941, around 2,700 workers began construction of the BMI complex in order to complete it in just 11 months. When the plant opened in February 1942, around 15,000 people would come from around the country to come work at the plant.[12] At its peak, it would produce 25% of the nation's magnesium. In between the preexisting communities of Pittman and Midway, what is now downtown Henderson was referred to as the Basic Townsite.[17]
The first permanent houses in Henderson being built to house Basic Magnesium workers.
During this time, the first high school in Henderson and second in Clark County, Basic High School, was established in 1942. The school has moved twice, once in the 1950s and again in 1972 to its current location. The school has a large, white letter "B" made of painted boulders on the side of the River Mountain range.[18]
By the end of World War II, Henderson suffered a sharp decline when the BMI plant ceassed production, with most of its 14,000 employees leaving with their families. With the sharp population decline, Henderson's future was uncertain and the state government was looking to public and private sectors to repurpose infrastructure.[19] In 1946, the Nevada Legislature authorized the Colorado River Commission of Nevada to purchase the industrial plants, preventing the town's dissolution.[20]
This intervention paved the way for the city of Henderson to exist. Henderson was officially incorporated as a city on April 16, 1953, with a population of 7,500 and Dr. Jim French serving as its first mayor.[21]
Despite its proximity to Las Vegas, Henderson maintained a distinct identity throughout the 1960s and 1970s, with slower rates of development and a priority placed on developing single-family homes, retail, and manufacturing industries.
In 1971, a land sale involving local businessman and Las Vegas Sun publisher, Hank Greenspun, caused controversy but resulted in the development of the first neighborhoods outside the original downtown, Green Valley. Greenspun acquired 4,720 acres of government-released land at approximately $280 per acre, a price which drew controversy, with many noting its location directly in between Las Vegas and downtown Henderson.[19]
Although Henderson retained its industrial core, the city shifted away from that into a larger suburban city. It became home to Southern Nevada's first master-planned community, Green Valley. The middle-to-upper class suburban development spurred growth with other master planned communities following suit.[22] This period of growth set the stage for Henderson's emergence as Nevada's second-largest city in subsequent decades.[12]
On May 4, 1988, the Pacific Engineering and Production Company of Nevada (PEPCON) chemical plant experienced a catastrophic fire and series of explosions. The facility was one of only two in the United States producing ammonium perchlorate, a key component in solid rocket fuel.[23]
The disaster resulted in two fatalities, injured over 300 individuals, and caused extensive damage throughout the Las Vegas Valley.[24] The explosions were so powerful that they registered seismic activity equivalent to a 3.5 magnitude earthquake and were felt up to 10 miles away.[23]
The incident led to significant changes in industrial safety regulations and emergency response protocols in the region.[25] In the aftermath, PEPCON ceased operations in Henderson, and the site was eventually redeveloped for commercial use.[23]
The city is in the Mojave Desert with wildlife and vegetation typical of the Mojave. The mountains that surround Henderson mostly have gentle slopes. The McCullough Range is closest to the city; most of this range is covered by black rocks from a volcanic explosion millions of years ago. These mountains reach an average height of about 3,800 feet (1,200 m). The landscape consists of the desert; the only water in the city is found in washes like Duck Creek.
Residential neighborhoods in Henderson include Anthem, Anthem Country Club, Ascaya, Black Mountain Vistas, Cadence, Calico Ridge, Champion Village, The Fountains, Grand Legacy, Green Valley, Green Valley Estates, Green Valley Ranch, Hillsboro Heights, Inspirada, Lake Las Vegas, MacDonald Highlands, MacDonald Ranch, Madeira Canyon, Club at Madeira Canyon, Roma Hills, Seven Hills, Sun City Anthem, Sun City MacDonald Ranch, Tuscany Village, and Whitney Ranch.
Henderson is classified as having a hot desert climate (BWh) in the Köppen climate classification. It has mild winters and hot summers. Snow can occasionally fall in the winter. The monsoon can bring storms in the summer, which can cause flash flooding and thunderstorms. The hottest month is July and the coldest month is December. On average there are 292 clear days per year.[28][failed verification]
There were 124,626 households, with an average household size of 2.54 individuals. Owner-occupied housing units accounted for 65.2% of all households, with a median value of $427,900. The median gross rent was $1,641.
The age distribution in 2020 was as follows: 4.9% under 5 years old, 21.4% under 18, and 20.0% aged 65 or older. The median age was 42.2 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.81 males.
Residents with at least a high school diploma accounted for 93.6% of the population, while residents with bachelor's degrees or higher accounted for 35.3%.
Henderson, Nevada – Racial and ethnic composition Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos may be of any race.
According to the 2000 census, there were 175,381 people, 66,331 households, and 47,095 families residing in the city. The population density was 2,200.8 inhabitants per square mile (849.7/km2). There were 71,149 housing units at an average density of 892.8 per square mile (344.7/km2). The city's racial makeup was 80.49% White, 3.76% African American, 0.70% Native American, 3.98% Asian, 0.42% Pacific Islander, 3.16% from other races, and 3.49% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 13.71% of the population.
There were 66,331 households, out of which 33.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.4% were married couples living together, 10.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.0% were non-families. 20.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.63 and the average family size was 3.05.
In the city, the population was spread out, with 25.1% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 32.5% from 25 to 44, 24.4% from 45 to 64, and 10.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age for the city was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.4 males.
The city's median household income was $63,830, and the median family income was $74,120. The per capita income for the city was $33,238. About 3.9% of families and 5.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.4% of those under age 18 and 4.7% of those age 65 or over.[35]
In 2023, the city released a report to identify areas for public policy improvement to support the city economy's primary industries, including: logistics, electric equipment and components manufacturing, financial and credit services, media and sports production, and back-office management and support services.[37] Overall, the city attracts more advanced industries than its Southern Nevada counterparts such as Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Boulder City since Henderson has more bachelor's and master's degree-holding residents per capita.[38]
TIMET, one of the largest manufacturers of titanium in the world, operates a facility in Henderson that produces titanium sponge and titanium tetrachloride,[39] employing approximately 600 people.[36]
Levi Strauss operates a 620,000-square-foot (58,000 m2)[40] manufacturing and distribution facility in Henderson, where it utilizes advanced laser technology to create custom-designed denim products. This facility allows for the production of personalized designs at a rapid pace.[41]
Haas Automation, a leading manufacturer of computerized numerical control machines, began constructing a major production facility in Henderson in 2024.[42][43] The new facility will cover 2,400,000 square feet (220,000 m2) and is expected to employ up to 1,400 people over five years.[42]
ProCaps Laboratories, a vitamin manufacturing company, operates a 90,000-square-foot (8,400 m2) facility in Henderson. The facility includes a unique 1,400-square-foot (130 m2) glass-enclosed broadcast studio that enables live broadcasting while production continues uninterrupted. This arrangement is a first-of-its-kind setup in the U.S. for a vitamin production facility.[44]
Google's $600 million data center in Henderson operates on a 64-acre (260,000 m2) campus.[45] This facility supports Google's network infrastructure Google Cloud, AI, Maps, Search in North America.[46] In addition to the initial investment, Google announced plans to invest an additional $400 million in 2024 to upgrade its Nevada data centers, including the one in Henderson.[47]
Amazon operates multiple facilities in Henderson. Among them is a 600,000-square-foot (56,000 m2) cross-dock facility that enables efficient redistribution of large inventory shipments. The facility employs over 1,000 workers and is one of three Amazon fulfillment centers in Nevada.[48]
The Las Vegas Raiders maintain their corporate headquarters and a healthcare performance center in Henderson. The facility features a 336,000-square-foot (31,200 m2) complex with training fields and administrative offices.[49]
Kroger operates a major distribution center in Henderson, which supports grocery operations throughout the region. The 428,000-square-foot (39,800 m2) facility employs around 270 people and serves as a vital logistics hub for the company's network of stores.[50]
Although ranges are given in order to protect employee privacy, according to the report, the City of Henderson Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, fiscal year ending June 30, 2024,[36] identifies the city's largest employers as:
An increasing number of major shopping malls, movie theater complexes, concert venues, restaurants and casino resorts offer residents a variety of choices for leisure time in Henderson. The city also sits a few miles southeast of Las Vegas and is not too far from the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. "Shakespeare in the Park" celebrated its tenth anniversary in 1996, a testament to Henderson's long-standing support for the arts and cultural programs. The city also boasts the largest recreational facility – the Henderson Multigenerational Facility – in Nevada as well as Nevada's only scenic Bird Preserve. The city supports a variety of other cultural events, many of which are held at the outdoor amphitheater, the largest one of its kind in Nevada.
The Las Vegas Raiders, formerly the Oakland Raiders, announced their relocation to Las Vegas in 2017. In 2018, they announced the purchase of 55 acres in the southwest part of Henderson where the team's executive offices and practice facility were built.[57] The $75 million complex was named the Intermountain Health Performance Center and opened in June 2020.[58]
The Las Vegas Aces' 64,000-square-foot (5,900 m2) complex houses the team's practice facility, offices, training and weight rooms, hydrotherapy space, physical therapy area, locker rooms, a lecture hall, player and alumni lounges, and an on-site day care center.[59] In 2023, the Aces became the first WNBA team to have a facility built exclusively for itself when their new complex opened.[60]
The city received its charter from the Nevada State Legislature in 1953, formally incorporating the city with a council/manager form of government.
Henderson is divided into four wards. A mayor and four council members are elected citywide, but no more than one council member are allowed to reside in each ward.
Lorna Kesterson was elected as Henderson's first female mayor, serving two terms until 1993.[66][67]
In 2013, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced it had reached a cooperative settlement agreement with the city of Henderson under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The DOJ received complaints by individuals who are deaf that officers for the city of Henderson did not provide them with qualified sign language interpreters and other auxiliary aids and services when needed for effective communication. One of the complainants was arrested and detained for two days in the Henderson detention facility, while the other was an alleged crime victim.[68]
During its investigation into the allegations, the department inquired whether the city of Henderson would be interested in resolving the matter voluntarily. The city expressed its full commitment to ensure compliance with the ADA. Under the settlement, the city of Henderson will pay $35,000 to the complainants. The city agreed to provide sign language interpreters, usually within an hour of a person's request to law enforcement officers. Henderson also agreed to modify its handcuffing policies for people who use sign language or hand writing to communicate, and to adopt other policies consistent with the ADA.[68]
Findlay Prep was a high school basketball program sponsored by the Henderson International School. Henderson International School – a private preparatory school owned by Meritas – hosted Findlay College Prep. Since its creation in 2006 by businessman Cliff Findlay, its dozen students comprised the school's only high school students.[69]
The city of Henderson has a low percentage of households without a car. In 2015, 2.8 percent of Henderson households lacked a car, and increased to 5 percent in 2016. The national average was 8.7 percent in 2016. Henderson averaged 1.74 cars per household in 2016, compared to a national average of 1.8.[75]
Street numbering is different within the city of Henderson than with the rest of the Las Vegas Valley. The center of Henderson lies within the intersection of Water Street and Lake Mead Parkway. The Henderson Police Department for years referred to Lake Mead Parkway (and its former name Lake Mead Drive) as "146", while Boulder Highway is often referred as "93", its former highway designation.
The Union Pacific Railroad serves Henderson over a branch line originally built to support construction of Hoover Dam. The final few miles of the line, owned by the U.S. Government, were abandoned after the dam was completed. The line still extends to Boulder City; in 1985, the state purchased the section east of appropriately I-11, with the Nevada Southern Railroad Museum operating excursion trains over the easternmost seven miles (11 km).
^"Fact Sheet". City of Henderson. Archived from the original on October 3, 2024. Retrieved November 25, 2024.
^Lyle, Michael (May 15, 2008). "Battle-born Henderson now 'A Place to Call Home'". Las Vegas Sun. Archived from the original on May 16, 2023. Retrieved November 25, 2024. On April 16, 1953, Henderson was officially a city, electing its first mayor, Dr. Jim French, on May 23. The city was only 13 square miles and had a population of 7,410 people. The city slogan soon became 'A Place to Call Home.'
^Moehring, Eugene P.; Green, Michael S. (2005). Las Vegas: a Centennial History. Wilbur S. Shepperson series in Nevada history. Reno: University of Nevada Press. pp. Chapter 10: Suburbanization and Diversity, 1970–2005. ISBN978-0-87417-611-7. Creating the momentum for Henderson's metamorphosis has been the development of Green Valley. Its origins lie in the land acquisitions of Las Vegas Sun editor Hank Greenspun in the southeastern portion of the valley, west of Henderson. Between 1956 and 1971, he bought eight thousand acres of land with the intention of bringing in large developers to build residential communities that the City of Henderson would eventually annex...Green Valley grew simultaneously with Spring Valley and sooner than Summerlin. Of course, it needed help. Fine convinced county commissioners to rename Lamb Boulevard Green Valley Parkway, which he connected to Patrick Lane.
^"History of Henderson". Las Vegas Sun. April 16, 2003. Archived from the original on April 2, 2024. Retrieved November 25, 2024. 1972 — "On Jan. 17, the city sells 4,700 acres of what then was known as "Section 25" to Las Vegas Sun Publisher Hank Greenspun, who then is approved by the City Council to develop on the huge parcel the master-planned community that would become Green Valley. Basic High moves from Van Wagenen to its present location on Palo Verde Drive."
^"History of Henderson". Las Vegas Sun. April 16, 2003. Archived from the original on April 2, 2024. Retrieved November 25, 2024. 1988 — "Henderson voters approve the first park improvement bond of $4 million...More than half of Henderson's buildings suffer some damage and thousands of insurance claims are filed. The plant paid more than $74 million in settlements and later moved to Utah. Construction begins on a 2,300-acre residential resort subdivision, Lake Las Vegas."
^"History of Henderson". Las Vegas Sun. April 16, 2003. Archived from the original on April 2, 2024. Retrieved November 25, 2024. "2003 — "Henderson Multigenerational Center, a huge recreational facility, opens on Feb. 7. Henderson annexes 5,458 acres of Bureau of Land Management land, preserving southwest entryway into city. (Today the city includes 96 million acres and has a population greater than 220,0000.)"
^[[#CITEREF|]]In historical documents, BMI is often used generically to refer to the plant and the company. Also, the area still exists today as the Black Mountain Industrial Complex, running along the length of Lake Mead Parkway and between the I-215Boulder Highway sfn error: no target: CITEREF (help)
^Jones, Florence Lee; Cahlan, John F. (1975). Water: A History of Las Vegas. Vol. 1. The Early History and Water Resources of the Las Vegas Valley in Clark County, Nevada. Las Vegas: Las Vegas Valley Water District. p. 137.
Landscaping in Las Vegas can be a dream—or a disaster—depending on your approach. Here are five common mistakes to avoid when designing your desert-friendly yard.
1. Choosing the wrong plants. Not all greenery thrives in the desert. Stick to native or drought-tolerant species that can handle heat and low water.
2. Overwatering. More water doesn't mean better growth. Use drip irrigation and water during cooler hours to avoid evaporation.
3. Poor soil preparation. Las Vegas soil can be tough. Add compost and organic matter to improve drainage and plant health.
4. Ignoring the sun. Place shade-loving plants in protected areas. Full-sun spots need heat-resistant varieties to survive.
5. Skipping maintenance. Even low-maintenance yards need attention. Regular cleanup, mulching, and system checks keep your landscape looking sharp.
Avoiding these pitfalls will help you create a landscape that thrives in Las Vegas—beautiful, sustainable, and stress-free.
Creating the Perfect Low-Maintenance Landscape in Las Vegas
Living in Las Vegas comes with endless sunshine, desert beauty, and, yes—heat. While traditional lawns and gardens may struggle in this climate, low-maintenance landscaping offers an attractive, water-efficient solution that doesn’t sacrifice style.
Whether you're a homeowner looking to simplify your outdoor space or a busy professional wanting curb appeal without the upkeep, designing a low-maintenance yard in Las Vegas is all about smart planning, strategic choices, and knowing what works in the desert.
Why Go Low-Maintenance?
The truth is, Las Vegas landscapes aren’t meant for thirsty lawns or tropical plantings. A traditional yard with grass, high-water plants, and constant trimming can cost hundreds in water bills, not to mention hours of weekend labour.
Switching to a low-maintenance landscape brings several benefits:
Lower water usage (a must in drought-prone Southern Nevada)
Minimal upkeep—no mowing, fertilising, or constant trimming
More durability in extreme sun and heat
Modern aesthetic appeal that suits contemporary Las Vegas homes
Let’s look at the best strategies for creating a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape that thrives in the Vegas climate.
1. Start with Artificial Turf
One of the most popular choices in Las Vegas landscaping is artificial grass. Today’s synthetic turf looks incredibly realistic and provides the green-lawn look—without the water, mud, or mowing. It’s perfect for front yards, pet zones, and even backyard play areas.
Artificial turf lasts 15–20 years with minimal care, drains easily during rainstorms, and stays green year-round. It's also safe for kids and pets, making it an all-around winner.
2. Use Drought-Tolerant Plants
Plants can still play a major role in a low-maintenance landscape—if you choose the right ones. Native and desert-adapted plants like:
Red yucca
Desert spoon
Agave
Texas sage
Lantana
Aloe vera
These plants thrive in full sun, need very little water, and look amazing when grouped with rocks or gravel. Most of them bloom seasonally, adding pops of colour without demanding attention.
3. Incorporate Hardscaping
Hardscaping is your best friend when designing for function and beauty. Think paver patios, walkways, stone borders, gravel beds, and boulders. These elements break up space, require no maintenance, and bring texture and contrast to your yard.
Want to take it further? Add a fire pit, seating wall, or a pergola for instant outdoor-living appeal with zero watering required.
4. Say Goodbye to Sprinklers—Hello to Drip Irrigation
Traditional sprinklers waste water and often miss the mark. Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to plant roots, saving water and keeping your landscape healthy.
They’re easy to install, nearly invisible once in place, and compatible with smart irrigation controllers that adjust based on weather conditions.
5. Choose the Right Groundcover
Ditch the mulch and grass clippings. Instead, opt for decorative gravel, crushed granite, or decomposed granite to cover bare ground. These materials don’t blow away easily, reduce weed growth, and add visual interest.
Incorporate steel or stone edging to create clean lines and keep materials in place.
6. Keep It Clean and Clutter-Free
Less is more in low-maintenance landscaping. Instead of filling every space, focus on creating breathing room with strategic planting, negative space, and simple design elements. Fewer plants mean fewer tasks, and the result often looks more elegant and intentional.
Final Thoughts
Las Vegas homeowners are discovering that beautiful landscaping doesn’t need to be high-maintenance. With the right mix of turf alternatives, native plants, and hardscaping, you can enjoy a yard that’s functional, stylish, and refreshingly easy to manage.
At Rock N Block Turf N Hardscapes, we help transform dry, unused yards into outdoor retreats that reflect your lifestyle and save you time, water, and effort. Ready to go low-maintenance in high heat? Let’s talk.
Why Artificial Turf Is the Smart Landscaping Choice in Las Vegas
Let’s face it—keeping natural grass green in Las Vegas is no easy feat. That’s why more homeowners and businesses are switching to artificial turf.
Artificial grass offers the look of a lush lawn without the hassle of watering, mowing, or fertilising. It’s a practical solution for desert climates where water is scarce and temperatures soar.
Modern turf is pet-friendly, child-safe, and comes in textures that rival real grass. It drains quickly, stays cool underfoot, and resists fading—even under intense Las Vegas sun.
Installation may cost more upfront, but the long-term savings in water bills and maintenance more than make up for it. Plus, with proper care, artificial turf can last 15–20 years.
Whether you want a clean front yard, a durable play area, or a backyard that’s always photo-ready, artificial turf is a smart, sustainable investment for Las Vegas living.