Xeriscaping techniques - Tips & techniques

Xeriscaping is a landscaping and gardening method that reduces or eliminates the need for supplemental watering or irrigation systems. Most regions that do not have reliable, plentiful, or easily accessible water sources enthusiastically embrace xeriscape landscaping.

Due to shifting climate patterns xeriscaping is widely gaining acceptance and popularity. It is a wonderful way to garden if you live in an area where there is a very dry season, or where water supplies are diminished. With periods of water shortages and dry seasons increasing in length, xeriscaping is an ecological solution to these problems. The advantages of xeriscaping are many. Ground water consumption is less and water retention enhanced when one implements the appropriate planting design. You invest less time and work for maintenance. It also makes gardening less stressful and simpler.

Your yard does not have to look like a desert scene if that type of landscaping is not appealing to you. Any landscaping style is easily achievable and may increase property values. You can switch the types of plants you grow, or modify the ones you already have planted. Use plants that are native to your area and local climate:

Common plants used in landscaping in the western United States include agave, cacti, lavender, juniper, sedum and thyme. Group plants with similar watering needs for the most effective water conservation.

In eastern zones plant tall perennials such as yarrow, mint and goldenrod in the back of the landscaping bed. Place mid-size to small plants like violets, daisies, and flax toward the front. Use perennial plants that re-seed easily along pathways.

Xeriscaping in the southern states is a little tricky. The springs are very wet, the summers are very hot and humid, and the winters are extremely variable. Be sure to maintain excellent drainage at all times. Yucca and agave do very well in the South. Consider adding sand to improve drainage and prevent root rot. In the South many native shrubs, succulents, and grasses easily adapt to a xeriscape garden.

Hummingbirds, bees and butterflies are very attracted to drought tolerant plants. Consider planting butterfly weed and different varieties of lantana in northern zones to attract these beneficial birds and insects.

Moisture, temperature and nutrient management

When xeriscaping the surface of the soil around the plants, you cover them with mulch such as leaves, bark, gravel, or wood chips. Other good soil covers include pine needles, gravel, and coarse grade compost. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. It also helps prevent soil erosion and weeds from growing. Fertilizers and pesticides are not needed when xeriscaping. Using xeriscape plants that are native to the area and organic soil eliminates the need for chemical supplements and provides adequate nutrients.

Watering

Take care that evaporation and runoff are minimal, but make sure plants are not waterlogged. Planting within the natural patterns and contours of the land will assist with drainage. Implementing terraces adds to the visual effect of your landscape and helps with drainage.
During times when water consumption is requisite by local restrictions or cost, plants thrive in a xeriscape landscape. Their chances of survival are better than in traditional landscaping where plants may be unable to adapt to water restriction. Remove weeds as needed during periods when water is scarce.

Xeriscaping: How to Design a Drought-Tolerant Garden