Nearly 30 years ago, a task force of interested specialists met in Colorado to discuss options for creating landscape designs that conserve water. At that conference, the word “xeriscaping” was coined. Taken from the word roots for “dry” and “scene,” the term was
intended to describe attractive landscapes that require less water than others.
Both the word and the concept gained popularity. Since then, people throughout the Southwest— Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, Arizona, and California—have found ways to create landscapes that satisfy their aesthetic wishes while fitting well with dry climates.
Perceptions and Misconceptions
The term xeriscaping has a clear meaning, but it can be taken too literally. Some homeowners believe it means that only the driest elements are used. They picture yards full of sand or gravel, punctuated with a cactus or two and a few large rocks. But those are only a few of the many plants and minerals that can make up a beautiful and true xeriscape.
Another assumption on the part of unfamiliar audiences is that only native plants can be used in xeriscaping. While plants that already survive and thrive in dry climates are better suited for deliberate use in settings intended to conserve water, some imported or “alien” plants work well, too.
Seven Principles of Xeriscaping
Xeriscape Colorado, a leading promoter of dry-climate landscape design, defines xeriscaping as “water conservation through creative landscaping.” The organization lists seven principles for creating an effective xeriscape:
- Planning and design—for water conservation and beauty
- Improving the soil—using compost or manure as needed
- Efficient irrigation—with properly designed systems
- Reduced turf areas—manageable sizes and shapes, and appropriate grasses
- Selecting appropriate plant material—grouping plants of similar water needs together
- Mulching—such as woodchips to reduce evaporation and keep the soil cool
- Proper maintenance—mowing, weeding, pruning, and fertilizing properly
Saving Resources, Saving Money
By some estimates, as much as half the water consumed by households in the western United States goes to lawns and landscaping. As the population continues to grow in places like Phoenix and Las Vegas, this kind of consumption can not be sustained. Already, water
levels at Lake Mead, the reservoir created by Hoover Dam, is 80 feet below normal level. The water has dropped consistently for more than 20 years.
Landscape irrigation is less vital to survival than water for drinking, washing, bathing, and carrying away sewage. When water shortages become severe, municipalities in the Southwest issue watering bans. These are likely to become more frequent and last longer.
In some ways, xeriscaping is a return to normal for desert communities. The practice of keeping grass lawns in a dry climate was never easy because it contradicts nature. By anticipating a time when water will be less plentiful, homeowners and landscape architects who adopt water conservation practices are creating the future.
Followed carefully, the principles of xeriscaping can reduce landscape water use by 60 percent or more. By keeping water waste to a minimum and designing landscapes that only need a little water, homeowners can cut their water bills and maintenance costs, while increasing their property values by as much as 15 percent.
Planning a Xeriscape
Even if you’re familiar with many of the plants available in your area, talk with a specialist when you start planning a xeriscape. A professional landscape architect, gardener, or horticulturist will probably have and share knowledge that can save you time and money—or inspire you to try combinations or designs you might never have considered
by yourself.
Before you choose which plants and other elements to use, decide how you want the space to function. If it will be a high-traffic area, make sure you have somewhere for people to walk. If you want to create a secluded garden for peace and quiet, look for plants that
provide coverage and shade while fitting comfortably in a dry setting.
You may be tempted to imitate the most attractive design you see, or one that looks as if it would fit a house like yours, but resist temptation. You will be the most satisfied if the design you choose suits the way you really live.
When you create a xeriscape design, part of the challenge is selecting plants that will grow into the space. Along with layout and planting times, you will need to think about soil preparation. Thoughtful planning will keep your needs for water, fertilizer, pesticide, and
other inputs to a minimum. In turn, these material savings will reduce your expenses.
Preparing the Soil
To provide a stable, healthy environment for plants and grasses, soil should be able to absorb ½ inch or more of water per hour. When the ground is dry and hard packed, it may not absorb enough water to sustain root systems—but if the soil contains too much sand, water may not stay in it long enough for plants to benefit.
Before you start working with the soil, have it tested for nutrient balance and organic content. The results should help you decide what approach to take. If you’re not sure how to proceed, ask a horticulturist from the agricultural extension service at the nearest college.
To adjust the absorbency of soil, you can add amending materials. Compost can remedy many soil problems and provide the qualities needed for successful planting. Clean, cured compost can also help prevent plant diseases and infestations.
Whatever amending substances you add to the soil, make sure you work them in well below the surface. Ideally, you should use a tiller with tines that reach at least 6 inches down. Blended, tilled soil is best for new plantings and early growth. Shrubs and trees have special requirements for planting; get clear instructions for each type you choose, and follow any directions carefully.
Irrigating the Site
Installing an irrigation system can be as simple or complicated as you choose. It can consist of little more than a drip hose and a valve handle, or it can incorporate moisture sensors, automatic timers, microemitters, and other technologies. Use these two criteria for selecting
an irrigation system, and you should find the right set of options:
- Compare the one-time cost of automatic components and systems to the expected long-term cost of water.
- Balance your desire for convenience against your wishes to take an active part in maintaining the xeriscape.
