 Now, let's talk about other things you can do in the yard. If you're planting new grass, new plants, use drought-resistant species. Native plants have the benefit of being adapted to local conditions, and they do need less maintenance and less watering. And use mulch. Mulching beds can definitely help retain moisture and prevent weeds. So two to three inches should do the job. Then set your mower higher. Mow that turf at two and a half to three and a half inches when it gets really hot, depending on the time of the year.