Having a lushly landscaped yard seems like one of the most obvious ways to be 'green,' but the types of plants you choose makes a huge difference. Think of all the gallons of water required to maintain some lawns and gardens; it seems like quite a waste, doesn't it? However, it's possible to have a beautiful yard that requires little water and maintenance. Familiarize yourself with the concept of xeriscaping, which involves using native plant species to reduce or completely eliminate the need for irrigation.
The term xeriscaping is derived from the Greek word 'xeros,' which means dry. It was popularized by employees of Denver Water, who created a Front Range Xeriscape Task Force in 1978 to help conserve water in the arid climate. In some communities, there are strict landscaping regulations that are in line with xeriscaping principles. However, the concept can be applied to all types of landscapes across the country. A low-maintenance law that is cost-effective has universal appeal.
Basic Principles of Xeriscaping
Take some time to familiarize yourself with your local climate conditions and native plant species. Visit a local nursery for recommendations. Also sketch out your yard and take note of solar orientation, shady areas, and slope, and mark any other major elements of the landscape. Planning is key to successful xeriscaping!
- Avoid exotic plants and stick to those that are native to your area.
- Group plants together with similar needs in terms of light and drainage.
- Incorporate compost and mulch into the soil to help it retain water.
- Reuse rainwater for irrigation, if needed; drip irrigation systems work most efficiently.
- Limit open lawn areas, and instead of sod, plant native grasses.
- Keep maintenance to a minimum and compost all clippings.
Benefits
- Reduce water for landscaping by 50-75%
- Drought resistance
- No chemicals are required - skip the pesticides and fertilizers
- Low maintenance; very little lawn-mowing, occasional weeding
- Creates habitat for wildlife
Learn more about 'green' landscaping:
Sustainable Patio and Deck Renovations