Question
Do you have any general advice for us here in the high desert Wasatch front
(South Salt Lake County)?  We are landscaping our yard and aren't very skilled in
horticulture.  Also, we don't have much time to do "gardening".  We love vivid
colors and kind of a "minimalist" look.  Anything you could offer as far as design
ideas?

Answer
I alway like to direct folks to their local Agriculture Extension office for plant advice, but the one in Utah is pretty "thin" with suggestions - here is the link, anyway:

http://extension.usu.edu/smac/htm/landscaping

Up agains the Wasatch range, the Salt Lake area is a mix of USDA zones 5-6-7, so it depends on your location and micro-climate for plants.  Fortunately there is a book called: "The Zone Garden 5-6-7" by Charlotte Frieze (Simon & Schuster) just perfect for your and my zones.

Here is a great commercial site that might be easier to negotiate and get you the local information you need instead of buying or checking out a book from the library...

http://www.landscapingutah.com/

Also, plants are *NOT* the only thing you can do - pavers, rock walls, rock mulches, water features, etc.  All water-thrifty and "minimalist" alternatives, for just a bit more time and money invested.  

Good luck! ~M