May is Water Awareness Month and there is no better time than now to learn about water conservation by cutting the watering and converting over to a xeriscape! Xeriscaping means landscaping or gardening with the goal of conserving water. Xeriscape gardens are really beautiful and will save you time, money, and most importantly, water.
requires minimal watering and absolutely no lawnmowing which will save hours of valuable time. By incorporating plants that use less water, you will also be saving money on your water bill!
A big reason xeriscaping is good for our watersheds is it requires little water and produces little to no waste. Grass can require 60 inches of water every year, and typically this water is applied with above ground sprinkler systems that can cause overwatering and create runoff. You also will not be using gas-powered equipment to maintain your lawn and there is no need for fertilizers or pesticides.
Here is how to get started:
- Select plants native to your area that require little watering! You can get advice on plant selection from your local garden centers.
- Make a rough map of your yard and mark it off into well-defined areas where you intend to put different plants. Try to group together plants with similar water needs so that you don’t end up having to micromanage watering for each and every plant.
- Prepare the soil for your xeriscape. Rich, loose, water holding soil will encourage good root development and lessen the plant’s need for supplemental water.
- Plan the most efficient watering system. Use low-flow sprinklers and low-pressure garden hoses to reduce water run-off.
- Get your plant on! Plant your xeriscape plants and make sure to allow adequate sunlight space around plant groups.
- ENJOY THE BEAUTY!
