The modification of sand with superhydrophobic silica/wax nanoparticles may provide for water storage, applicable, for example, in desert environments. In particular, highly thermal stable superhydrophobic coats for sand are made of nanoparticles composed of superhydrophobic silica capped with paraffin wax. Superhydrophobic sand modified by such nanoparticles addresses issues of water storage in desert environments, capitalizing on sand resource utilization. Superhydrophobic sand, as modified, has excellent water repellency and great water-holding capacity. The superhydrophobic sand modified with superhydrophobic silica/wax nanoparticles can be applied for the desert water storage for agriculture and planting.