Xeriscape Landscaping

What is Xeriscape Landscaping?

Xeriscape landscaping is an approach to landscaping design that focuses on using drought-tolerant, low-water-use plants.

The word “Xeriscape” is derived from the Greek word “xeros,” which means “dry.” Its goal is simple: to conserve as much water as possible without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.

What Are the Principles of Xeriscape Landscaping?

1. Planning and Design

To maximize water efficiency and reduce high-water-use areas, grouping plants with similar water needs together and creating specific irrigation zones is best.

You should also study your site’s microclimate, soil conditions, and sun exposure to pick the most suitable plants (native plants fare best).

The goal is to reduce evaporation by providing your lawn with shade via trees or groundcovers.

2. Soil Improvement

Xeriscape landscaping relies on aerating the soil, adjusting its pH, and amending it with organic matter to emphasize water conservation.

This works on three fronts: promoting better water absorption, ensuring your soil is ideal for drought-resistant plants, and improving water retention.

3. Plant Selection

Plants native to your location are usually more adapted to the local climate and require minimal water.

However, an alternative option is to opt for those that are, by nature, less demanding water-wise.

This extends to groundcover, too. Artificial turf or native grasses should be used—in moderation—instead of turf grass.

Organic mulch is also applied to reduce evaporation, keep the soil moisture high, and control weed growth.

4. Irrigation

Xeriscape landscaping favors efficient irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation and other low-volume watering methods (soaker hoses, wicking beds, and bubblers).

It also requires watering deeply and infrequently to conserve water.

These irrigation efforts should also account for changes in seasons and plant needs.

Expect watering more often during the summer and less so during colder months.

Moreover, once your plants establish their roots, they won’t need to be watered as often.

5. Maintenance

Replenishing your mulch layer, analyzing your soil frequently, revising your irrigation schedules, controlling weed growth, edging, and monitoring how all this affects your new plants are necessary to maintain a healthy and aesthetically pleasing Xeriscape landscape.

What Are the Benefits of Xeriscape Landscaping?

Xeriscape landscapes can reduce outdoor water usage by as much as 50% or more compared to traditional landscaping. This will:

• Lower your water bills.
• Reduce water usage, which goes a long way towards preserving limited water resources in regions with arid climates.

Since most homeowners opt for native and drought-tolerant plants that vary in colors and texture, Xeriscape landscaping assists with:

• Creating a visually appealing landscape and enhancing your curb appeal.
• Making your landscape much more resilient to droughts, pests, and diseases.
• Decreasing maintenance costs associated with mowing, fertilizing, trimming, and irrigation.

What Are the Best Plants for Xeriscape Landscaping?

• Shrubs: lavender, Russian sage, sumac, juniper
• Succulents: agave, cacti, yucca, and sedum
• Native Grasses: buffalo grass, blue grama, feather reed grass, and blue fescue
• Perennials: coneflower, thyme, salvia, and rosemary

Additional Terms to Understand

• What Is Landscaping?: Learn about traditional landscaping and how it can increase your property’s overall curb appeal!
• What is DG in Landscaping?: Learn how decomposed granite is used in Xeriscape landscapes and what its functional uses are!
• What Is Grading in Landscaping?: Learn how grading in landscaping is an essential aspect of design and what elements it consists of!