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Conserve Water in Your Landscape: Xeriscape
from: Lawn and Garden MagicXeriscaping is a type of landscaping that uses plants that do not require a lot of water. It's also entails a more efficient use of water needed to take care of your landscape. Xeriscaping has become quite popular in areas that are naturally dry and areas that are prone to drought. The West is an excellent place for applying xeriscape principles, as much of the land west of the Rocky Mountains is considered semi-arid, and it is especially prone to drought. By applying the principles of landscaping for drier areas, it is possible to enjoy a beautiful landscape without running up the water bill or spending a great deal of time trying to keep your landscape from wilting.
When you think of landscape with xeriscape think of cactus and rock gardens. These types of landscape designs are very efficient and make interesting landscapes. Cacti come in many different varieties and are quite beautiful since many cactus plants bloom with lovely flowers as well. Cactus can add an interesting look to your landscape, and add a uniqueness and distinction to your yard. If you have young children, however, it's a good idea to choose cacti without spines. There are different types of cactus plants that don't have the harp spines and there are plenty of other plants, related to cactus, called succulents that are great for eriscaping.
Rock gardens are also excellent for xeriscape landscaping. They take up space that bushes and lawn would use, but require less care. Additionally, rock gardens can look very interesting and there is no reason that a variety of plants can't be planted among the rocks. There are many flowers, ornamental grasses and small shrubs and groundcovers that can grow in the midst of your rock garden. Be sure to choose hardy plants, preferably native plants, that can tolerate living in close proximity to the rocks.
However, keep in mind that just because xeriscape is about conserving water it doesn't mean your landscape has to be all cactus and rock gardens. It's quite possible to create and maintain a landscape using xeriscape principles with more traditional flowers and even with lawns. The key is to carefully choose your plants and then to care for them more efficiently, especially as it relates to water use.
Plants that are excellent in most xeriscapes are perennials (they store a great deal of nutrients in their roots and bulbs, and don't need as much water), ornamental grasses, vines, shrubs, and groundcover. As mentioned, the use of native plants in your xeriscape landscape design is essential for having a landscape that isn't too high maintenance and one that conserves water. It can be very interesting to combine these more traditional landscape plants with plants like cacti and succulents. It adds variety and makes your yard that much more interesting.
Efficient use of water can help your plants become part of the xeriscape. By watering intelligently, you can help your plants become stronger, utilize the moisture in the soil better and this will help them to better withstand drought, insects, and disease. These watering tips even work when watering the lawn. The reason efficiency is so important is because most people use twice as much water as is necessary to water their lawns. Rather than watering frequently and quickly, water occasionally and deeply. It may take more time, but the water will soak into the soil and encourage the roots of your plants (including the grass) to reach down into the soil. Things like mulch and wood chips can help the soil hold moisture better as well, and aeration ensures that the water gets down closer to the roots.
Quality is better than quantity.
Your xeriscape can be a beautiful landscape that also conserves water. If you keep in mind the basic principles of xeriscaping, chances are you will be able to save yourself money in water costs, and that you will be able to enjoy healthier plants. Additionally, you'll find that you spend less time on maintenance when you incorporate the principles of xeriscaping. Native plants that are deeply watered stand an excellent chance of blooming again and again -- and giving you much pleasure in the look of your landscape.
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