Hannah Dean | January 27, 2026 | 3 min read
Landscaping OKC yards is a little different than landscaping just about anywhere else. Around here, the weather likes to keep you on your toes (a 70 degree Christmas day?!), the soil has a personality of its own and the wind rarely asks permission. Most homeowners want a landscape that looks good, holds up and doesn’t turn into a full-time job. That’s not too much to ask — but it does take a plan that’s built for Oklahoma, not borrowed from somewhere else.
At Red Earth Landscaping, we’ve spent years designing and installing landscapes across the Oklahoma City metro. We’ve learned what thrives here, what struggles and what just isn’t worth the trouble. As the saying goes, you can’t plant like it’s Oregon and expect it to behave like Oklahoma. Experience matters.
Start with a plan that fits Oklahoma, not a Pinterest board
One of the biggest mistakes we see in landscaping OKC homes is starting with inspiration that doesn’t match our climate. What works in cooler, wetter regions often struggles here. We love to see customer’s inspiration photos, and there is almost always an ‘Oklahoma’ version for every plant look.
A solid Oklahoma landscape plan takes into account:
- Clay-heavy soil
- Hot summers and inconsistent rainfall
- Wind exposure
- Sun patterns and shade
- Drainage and grading
When these factors are considered from the start, the landscape looks better, lasts longer and is much easier to maintain. We’ll absolutely welcome your ideas! Just know we might kindly suggest otherwise.
Choose plants that can handle real Oklahoma weather
Plants are the heart of any landscape, but not all plants are cut out for Oklahoma life. Correctly selected plants tend to need less water, fewer chemicals and less overall attention.
Some of the most reliable options for OKC landscapes are actually plants that look pretty sad in a nursery setting. This can be the problem with trying to select plants on your own in a retail setting, as the varieties that thrive in a nursery setting will not necessarily thrive once planted here. Retail nurseries of course sell more plants when they are vibrant and blooming at the nursery, and as a result often do not have some of the options that work best in your yard.
You want plants in your yard that will thrive in drastically fluctuating temperatures, often less than ideal soil and WIND. The greenhouses and perfectly mixed planting medium at the nurseries are not very representative of our environment here.
Balance soft landscaping with structure
A great landscape isn’t just about plants. Hardscaping elements like patios, walkways and retaining walls add structure and help manage the challenges Oklahoma yards often present.
When landscaping OKC properties, blending planting beds with stone, gravel or paved areas helps:
- Reduce erosion
- Improve drainage
- Lower long-term maintenance
- Create usable outdoor living space
It also gives the landscape a finished look that feels intentional instead of pieced together. You’d be surprised at what a little structure can do to your yard!
Want help?
If you’re thinking about landscaping your OKC property, working with a local team who understands our climate and soil makes all the difference. Red Earth Landscaping designs outdoor spaces that are thoughtful, durable and tailored to how Oklahoma homeowners actually live.
When you’re ready to improve your yard without overcomplicating things, we’d be glad to help you plan it right.