Low Water Use Gardening and Creative Landscaping with Xeriscaping

Having a lush and flourishing garden or landscape is a dream of every homeowner. But this is not always to achieve. If you live in a drought-stricken area, for example, in the South Eastern or the Western part of the United States, you have to find alternative solutions to establish and maintain a garden. Water restrictions in some regions make it necessary to create garden concepts that pay more attention to a minimal use of additional water.

Also for those people who don't find enough time to sustain a conventional garden or landscape, there is a specific gardening technique, called Xeriscaping. The term Xeriscaping refers to 'dry landscaping' and was developed some decades ago in the Western parts of the United States. Confronted with extreme droughts and oftentimes absolute watering bans, inventive gardeners adjusted to the conditions. Xeriscaping stands for applying plants and methods that don't require more water than is provided by downfall. It is a smart technique of owning a gorgeous garden or landscape without spending much time and energy to sustain it or irrigate it frequently, as usually.

The term Xeriscaping may raise the picture of a backyard that includes a hugh stone bed. But the concept simply concentrates on modifying your garden to a low-maintenance area; however, this also integrates rocks. Even though retaining maintenance on a low level, it is yet feasible to keep a pretty backyard that will not attract unfavorable attention of your neighbors.

It's not that difficult as you might think, to apply the principles of Xeriscaping to your garden or landscape. The most significant rule of this method is the selection of plants which are adapted to the local climate zone and soil. So, you should choose native plants whenever possible. But there are also a lot of non-native plants from similar climate zones which may be appropriate for your backyard.

When you decide to start with a Xeriscaping project, you first have to select all the suitable plants you will be using. They should mostly need a low quantity of water. Then group plants together according to their water needs. Set those requiring the most water nearest to a source of watering. Then combine plants according to required soil and sun exposure. Place the plants properly by adding organic material to the soil and keep an eye on them until they are deep-rooted which can take up to three years, depending on the size and types. It's also very important to apply organic mulch as protection, a layer of about three inches; replenish the material one or two times per year, but don't replace it completely. During the dry season you should limit the use of fertilizer, particularly those which contain much nitrogen.

If you follow these rules, in the end you will be able to save a considerable amount of water. This is one of the main principles and benefits of Xeriscaping. In addition, you will have to spend much less time and effort in maintaining your garden. This tried and tested technique of landscaping helps you to cope with difficult climatic and environmental condition of your region.