The Principles of Xeriscaping

Water conservation is becoming a very important consideration when gardening in the Western US. Back in 1981, an environmental planner for the Denver Water Department coined the word "Xeriscape" (from the Greek word xeri for dry, needing little water) to embody the principles of water conservation through creative landscaping.

Briefly, here are the basic principles of water wise landscaping:

1. Planning and Design. Whether you're starting from scratch, or renovating an existing landscape, take the time to plan out your design before you start to plant. Create different water use zones and allocate the water where it will most directly contribute to the beauty and comfort of your home.

2. Create Practical Turf Areas. Limit the size of lawn areas and use native grasses as much as possible. Buffalo Grass is an excellent drought-tolerant alternative to thirsty Kentucky Blue Grass.

3. Use Appropriate Plants. Use xeric plants for hot, dry south and west facing areas. Use plants that like more moisture along north and east facing slopes and walls. Don't mix plants with high and low watering needs in the same planting area.

4. Improve the Soil. Add organic matter in the form of compost whenever you plant. This helps the soil hold extra moisture.

5. Use Mulches. By covering the soil's surface with some type of mulch, you help retain valuable soil moisture. Mulching also helps capture rainwater by allowing hard rains to soak into the soil instead of running off into the street and drainage areas.

6. Irrigate Efficiently. Don't over-water. Use soaker hoses and drip irrigation to water deeply and encourage deep root growth.

7. Capture Rain and Snow Run Off. Use rain barrels and cisterns to capture water draining off roofs. Run-off from paved areas can be directed back onto the landscape to water trees, shrubs and flower beds.

8. Maintain Your Landscape and Garden Properly. Keep irrigation systems running properly. Avoid the lush, thirsty plant growth that results from over-fertilizing

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