When considering landscape design, sometimes it can serve you well to select a less common option. Find out whether a unique type of landscaping known as xeriscaping is right for you.

Xeriscaping is sometimes called drought-resistant or water-friendly landscaping because it can drastically reduce the need for irrigation. It is usually promoted in drought-prone regions but can be a good landscaping choice in many different climates. If you are interested in learning more, here is an overview of what you need to know about xeriscaping.

What is Xeriscaping?

Let’s begin with the basics. Xeriscaping reduces and sometimes even eliminates the need for supplemental irrigation by making use of plants that thrive in your climate. This typically includes native plants, but species that aren’t native to the area may also be chosen if they don’t require a lot of additional water. Xeriscaping uses landscaping strategies to reduce water evaporation and runoff as well.

Benefits of Xeriscaping

The main benefit of xeriscaping is that it significantly cuts down on water usage, preserving this important natural resource and saving you money on your water bill. Another environmentally friendly xeriscaping benefit is a reduced need for fertilizers, keeping more chemicals out of the soil. Additionally, once your new landscaping is all set up, it will require minimal maintenance in the way of watering or weeding, saving you time and effort.

Xeriscaping Design Principles

Xeriscaping follows seven basic principles that can help you create a functional, attractive, and water-saving landscape design.

1. Start with a good plan. Create a diagram of your yard that includes information like what types of plants you will use, where you intend to plant them, where the shade will be, and how the land will slope.

2. Prepare your soil. Add compost and other organic amendments to provide nutrients for your plants, and perform any necessary soil grading as well.

3. Select an efficient irrigation system. Xeriscaping seeks to reduce water consumption, but additional irrigation may be necessary and should be incorporated as efficiently as possible. This may include collecting rainwater and using an automatic sprinkler system.

4. Group your plants efficiently as well. Plants with similar water and light requirements should be placed close together to minimize water waste.

5. Make use of mulch. Laying down a layer of mulch will reduce water evaporation, keep plant roots cool, and limit weed growth. Organic mulches also add nutrients to the soil as they break down.

6. Minimize turf areas. You may want to keep a bit of grassy lawn for pets and children to play on, but large turf areas are best reduced and replaced by more drought-resistant plants.

7. Stay on top of maintenance. While xeriscaping is intended to be low-maintenance, regular tasks like mowing, weeding, and pruning will help keep your yard healthy and looking great.

Is Xeriscaping Right for My Yard?

When done right, xeriscaping can be an excellent choice for almost any yard. While it offers greater benefits in more drought-prone areas, all homeowners can take advantage of this eco-friendly landscaping option. Ultimately, it will come down to your aesthetic preferences and the types of plants you prefer to have on your property.

If it is time to upgrade your landscaping, then use it as an opportunity to choose something a little different. With numerous advantages and easy-to-follow design principles, xeriscaping is an option worth considering.