The Principles of a Xeriscape

Landscaping can account for up to half of all residential water consumption in areas with rainfall shortages. The xeriscape was developed in Colorado to create a water efficient landscape. "Xeri" is a Greek word meaning dry; however, xeriscapes are anything but dull and dry. Appropriate landscaping practices can help the average American conserve water, energy, and resources while saving money.

Economy and green living are two major concerns of today and a water efficient xeriscape adresses both issues. The xeriscape is an environmentally friendly form of landscaping that uses key principals to achieve water conservation. A beautiful yard, park, commercial area or school ground doesn't have to be a drain on the pocketbook or environment with the implementation of a xeriscape.

The seven principals of xeriscaping are:

~Planning

Careful planning is the first step to a xeriscape. The site needs to be carefully reviewed with consideration given to the slope and exposure. More water loss occurs on south or west facing slopes. Concrete, rock and gravel can raise the temperature near buildings and facilitate water loss. The plan needs not be elaborate. High maintenance areas of the yard such as corners and areas that need trimmed and watered could be addressed. A simple strip of land may just need replanted with more drought resistant plants. A large south facing slope will need more extensive renovations such as terraces to reduce runoff. Upfront costs may be higher with a xeriscape versus a more traditional landscape but a xeriscape will save money in the long run.

~ Soil Amendment

Next, the soil needs to be looked at. Proper soil preparation is essential to water conservation. Water and other nutrients will run through a sandy soil. A soil that is too heavy will not allow the water to penetrate the surface resulting in runoff. Amending the soil with organic material or compost can help it drain properly reducing run-off and soil erosion. It is usually a good idea to have your soil tested before adding any materials. Healthy soil will grow healthy, happy plants. Less stressed plants are not as susceptible to attack by insects and disease. This will reduce the need for fertilizers, insecticides and fungicides.

~Less Lawn

The easiest way for the average American to reduce water usage is on the lawn. This doesn't mean you have to dig up and replace every inch of lawn but reducing the grass area and picking a drought resistant grass can greatly decrease maintenance cost and water consumption. Strips of grass, corners, or isolated islands of turf can all be problem areas that require high maintenance and difficult, often wasteful watering. Replacing such sites with drought resistant alternatives such as wild flowers or shrubs is a good idea.

~Proper Plant Selection

Use native or appropriate plants grouped according to water needs. Plants need to be compatible with available sun, water and soil type. Native plants are naturally compatible with xeriscapes but more choices are often available by looking at your specific climate. Xeriscapes are gaining in popularity and there are many resources available to help choose appropriate often colorful plants.

~Irrigate Wisely

The average homeowner can use 30 to 80 percent less water with proper irrigation practices. It is estimated that up to 80% of plant problems come from over watering. If a sprinkler system is already in use it should be inspected for coverage. Adjust the sprinkler so drive-ways, patios and other hardscapes aren't receiving water. Efficiently delivering water where it is needed can prevent excessive plant and weed growth. Frequent shallow sprinklings should be avoided as they lead to shallow root systems and weak plants. Completely eliminating the need for irrigation would be lovely but not likely in arid climates. However, new technologies such as drip irrigation and micro-emitters are making progress in delivering water right where it is needed with little waste.

~Mulch and Maintain

Mulch can help conserve water while discouraging weed growth. The use of mulch around plantings greatly reduces water loss thus reducing the number of watering needed to maintain healthy growth. Organic mulch such as chipped bark will help build nutrients in the soil, maintain the landscape and reduce maintenance time and cost.

A xeriscape helps the average homeowner conserve resources and reduce waste with practical methods. These principals may be applied to landscapes anywhere to help reduce strain on the environment and save money.

Sources:

http://www.clwmb.ca.gov/organics/Xeriscaping accessed 29 July 2009

http://www.ext.colostate.edu accessed 29 July 2009

http://www.mt.nrcs.usda.gov accessed 29 July 2009