You might have heard of it, but what is Xeriscaping?
Xeriscaping is a type of modern landscape design gaining in popularity in the western regions of the United States. It dramatically decreases the amount of water needed to maintain a beautiful front or back yard landscape anywhere from 50 to 75 percent!
It’s easy to see the appeal, from lowering monthly water bills and less maintenance to helping out the environment, it definitely has its perks. If you are contemplating converting your lawn to a xeriscaped space, here are a few tips to get you started on the right path.
Plan and design for smart water use.
Before you start, decide what your landscape’s water resources are and how you want to use your property. Create a plan that takes both into account. Don’t forget that hardscaped areas affect the water cycle. Consider using permeable solutions for any paved areas. A well-designed hardscape installation can also be used to direct water appropriately on your property.
Choose plants wisely.
Select plants not only for drought tolerance, but for aesthetic appeal. Aim for a good mix of plants that will offer interest at various heights and throughout the year. Plants native to your area, or to a part of the world with a similar climate, usually make good xeriscaping choices. Also keep in mind that different areas of your property may have differing amounts of moisture and sunlight. Choose plants accordingly.
Water efficiently.
As water efficient as your xeriscaped landscape is, it will probably need some supplemental water from time to time. A professionally designed irrigation system will help you keep watering to a minimum while maintaining a healthy, vibrant landscape regardless of climate.
Maintain your xeriscape regularly.
Once established, xeriscapes typically need minimal maintenance. However, any landscape is a dynamic system and does require proper care to maintain aesthetic and safety standards. Pruning, fertilizing, aeration, and other routine tasks should be completed on a regular schedule to keep your landscape looking picture perfect.