Serving the NMSU Area Since 2005Landscaping Services near NMSU & University Hills
Lawn conversions, tree care, irrigation upgrades, and xeriscaping for the neighborhoods around New Mexico State University. Built for older homes, rental properties, and compact lots.
We Know These Neighborhoods
The streets around NMSU are full of 1960s and 1980s ranch-style homes. Many still have bermuda grass lawns that drink water all summer. Older elms, pecans, and mulberries line the yards. Irrigation systems are often 20 to 30 years old. We work in this area every week, so we know the soil, the trees, and the challenges.
Whether you own a rental near campus or live in Country Club or Telshor, Brainard's Greenscapes can help. We handle lawn-to-xeriscape conversions, tree trimming and removal, irrigation rebuilds, and full landscape installs. Our crew is local, our plants are chosen for this climate, and we show up on time.
Services Available near NMSU & University Hills
Landscape Design
Plans sized for compact lots, shade from mature trees, and the tight setbacks common near campus.
Learn MoreLandscaping & Install
Planting, grading, and full-yard installs built for older properties and small footprints.
Learn MoreHardscaping & Patios
Patios, walkways, and retaining walls designed for older homes and monsoon drainage.
Learn MoreXeriscaping
Replace thirsty bermuda with water-wise plants like Desert Willow, Red Yucca, and Texas Sage.
Learn MoreIrrigation & Sprinkler
Replace aging sprinkler systems with drip zones and smart controllers that cut water bills.
Learn MoreLandscape Maintenance
Seasonal cleanup, tree pruning, leaf removal, and irrigation checks for homes and rentals.
Learn More
Neighborhoods & Landmarks We Serve
We serve every neighborhood near NMSU, including zip codes 88001 and 88003. From University Hills to the Country Club area, these streets are close to I-25, downtown, and the university. Each block has its own mix of homes, trees, and yard sizes.
University Hills 88001
Ranch-style homes from the 1960s and 1970s with bermuda lawns, aging irrigation, and mature shade trees that need regular care.
University Park 88003
A mix of faculty homes and student rentals close to campus. Small yards that benefit from low-water, low-maintenance designs.
Alameda Area 88001
Tree-lined streets with older homes. Pecan and elm roots often interfere with irrigation lines and sewer pipes.
Country Club 88001
Established neighborhood with larger lots, mature landscaping, and homeowners looking to update tired lawns and patios.
Telshor Area South 88001
Mid-century homes along the Telshor corridor with wind exposure and full-sun yards that dry out fast in summer.
Campus View 88003
Rental-heavy blocks just south of NMSU. Property owners want durable, low-maintenance yards that hold up between tenants.
What Makes This Area Different
The neighborhoods around NMSU sit on the valley floor with older infrastructure, compact lots, and decades-old landscaping. Here are the four biggest factors we design around.
Bermuda & Fescue Lawns
These grass types are common here but expensive to keep green. A xeriscape conversion can cut your water bill by 50% or more, and we handle the full process.
Mature Trees & Root Problems
Old elms, pecans, and mulberries provide great shade but drop leaves and send roots into clay sewer lines and irrigation pipes. We prune, remove, and reroute as needed.
Aging Irrigation Systems
Many systems in this area are 20 to 30 years old with cracked PVC and outdated timers. We rebuild zones, add drip lines, and install smart controllers that save water.
Compact Lots, Creative Design
Smaller yards need smart layouts. We use layered plantings, vertical interest, and multi-use hardscape to make every square foot count.
Let’s Talk About Your Outdoor Vision
David was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. He patiently answered all of my questions about the plants and trees around my home and provided valuable insights into the issues I was facing. His friendly demeanor and expertise made the experience enjoyable and informative. I highly recommend him
We had a great experience with David. We used him for one of our rental properties in Las Cruces and will definitely be using him again for the next one. Everything from start to finish was professional and timely. Highly recommend.
Brainard's Greenscapes recently revamped my backyard with rock landscaping. I couldn't be happier with how the project turned out. From start to finish David's team was professional, punctual, and courteous. They helped me select the the right materials and offered additional design ideas. The quality of work was EXCELLENT. I highly recommend David's team to all homeowners in Las Cruces looking for reliable landscaping company. The picture below is of my backyard 1 year later and there is still no weeds! I can't think Braindard's Greenscapes enough.
I had a sprinkler emergency and David came out immediately; found an effective solution to get me through until the major repairs could be made; and took care to make sure my house wasn't without water in the meantime. I am so grateful for his kindness and professionalism. He demonstrated considerable expertise and decisive decision making that got me through this emergencies with minimal stress. He is trustworthy and will be the first one I'll call on any future sprinkler needs.
Brainard’s Greenscapes is a top notch business. I have called on them on several occasions to fix issues with my irrigation system and for new projects. David, the owner, is a sincere, honest individual, who cares about his business and his customers. His employees are also kind and always professional. They are punctual and complete the job as promised and clean up after they are done. I am very pleased with David and his company and have recommended him to my neighbor, who is also a widow because I know he is honest and will not take advantage of her. David is a good guy and I recommend that you give him a call and see for yourself.
University Hills Project Showcase
Campus View Lawn Conversion
A full bermuda-to-xeriscape conversion with drip irrigation, decomposed granite, and native plantings. Water use dropped by more than half.
University Ave Commercial Refresh
Low-maintenance commercial landscaping along University Avenue. Gravel beds, hardy shrubs, and clean hardscape edges that look good year-round.
University Hills Landscaping FAQ
How much water does a grass lawn use vs. xeriscape?
A bermuda lawn in Las Cruces can use 50 to 60 inches of water per year. A well-designed xeriscape uses about 10 to 15 inches. That means your water bill can drop by half or more after a conversion.
Can you convert half my yard to xeriscape?
Yes. Many homeowners keep a small patch of grass for kids or pets and convert the rest. We design a clean border between the two zones and set up separate irrigation so each area gets the right amount of water.
What should I do about tree roots damaging my irrigation?
Older trees like elms and mulberries send roots right through PVC lines. We reroute irrigation around the root zone and use flexible tubing where roots are active. If the tree is too far gone, we can remove it and replant with a less aggressive species.
Do you work with rental property owners?
Yes. We work with landlords and property managers across the NMSU area. We design yards that are durable, low-maintenance, and easy for tenants to care for. We also offer ongoing maintenance plans so you do not have to rely on tenants for upkeep.
What are the best low-maintenance plants for a small yard?
For small lots near NMSU, we recommend Red Yucca, Desert Marigold, Blackfoot Daisy, and Autumn Sage. They stay compact, bloom for months, and need very little water once established. A layer of gravel mulch finishes the look and keeps weeds down.
Where We Work near NMSU
On the map below: our coverage around University Hills, University Park, the Alameda area, Country Club, Telshor, and Campus View. We serve every residential and commercial property in this part of Las Cruces.
Schedule an Estimate- 500+ Las Cruces Projects
- 19+ Years in the Valley
- 5/5 Average Rating
- 100% Lifetime Warranty
Neighboring Areas We Serve
We also handle landscape projects in nearby Mesilla Valley communities just minutes away.
