Xeriscaping Principles

1. Fundamental element of XeriscapePrinciples is water conservation. Constantly look for ways to reduce the amount of applied water and to maximize the use of natural precipitation.

2. Soil 

The ideal soil in a water-conserving landscape does two things simultaneously: it drains quickly and stores water at the same time. This is achieved by increasing the amount of organic material in your soil and keeping it well aerated.

3. Turf

Reduce the size of turf areas as much as possible, while retaining some turf for open space, functionality and visual appeal. Use water-saving species adapted to your area.

Residential Xeriscaping Principles

4. Plants

For best results, select plants that are native to your  area, Trees help to reduce evaporation by blocking wind and shading. Select plants for their ultimate size. This reduces pruning maintenance.Use drought-resistant plants. In general, these plants have leaves which are small, thick, glossy, silver-grey or fuzzy – all characteristics which help them save waste. For hot, dry areas with south and west exposure, use plants which need only a minimum of water. Along north and east-facing slopes and walls, choose plants that like more moisture. Most importantly, don’t mix plants with high- and low-watering needs in the same planting area.
     

5. Mulch

Xeriscaping Principles

Cover the soil’s surface around plants with a mulch, such as leaves, coarse compost, pine needles, wood chips, bark or gravel. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and temperature, prevent erosion and block out competing weeds. Organic mulch will slowly incorporate with the soil, and will need more applied, “top-dressed”, from time to time. To be effective, mulch needs to be several inches thick. There should be no areas of bare soil

6, Irrigation

Xeriscaping Principles
Water conservation is the goal, so avoid overwatering. Soaker hoses and drip-irrigation systems offer theeasiest and most efficient watering for xeriscapes because they deliver water directly to the base of the plant. This reduces moisture loss from evaporation. They also deliver the water at a slow rate which encourages root absorption and reduces pooling and erosion. In general, it’s best to water deeply and less frequently.

7. Maintain your landscape

Low-maintenance is one of the benefits of xeriscape. Keeping the weeds from growing up through the mulch may require some attention. Thickening the layer of mulch will help. Turf areas should not be cut too short – taller grass is a natural mulch which shades the roots and helps retain moisture. Avoid overfertilizing.