Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping refers to the conservation of water by reducing the amount of water applied by humans and automated sprinkler systems and maximizing the use of rain water. This season has been an exceptionally dry one and creating a garden that limits the use of water by planting plant species primarily tolerant of dry conditions, will save on your water bill and help alleviate any worries if your town places you on “mandatory water restriction”.

There are many benefits to Xeriscaping. As stated above, water conservation is one of the most important, both from an economic standpoint as well as environmentally. Installing soaker hoses in your garden is a great way to conserve water because it releases the water directly onto the roots of the plants for easy intake. Watering by hand and by automated irrigation systems tend to expedite the process of evaporation because the water collects on the leaves and flowers first before actually hitting the root system. Soaker hoses also release water at a slower rate than automated systems and hand watering which will allow your plants time to absorb the water and help prevent run-off of excess water. (Please remember all summers are not as dry as this one.)

Mulching yearly is an additional way to conserve water by helping to retain the soil moisture and temperature, preventing erosion, and helping to block out weeds. Creating windbreaks will also help to keep plants and the soil for drying out. The use of trees, tall ornamental grasses, and shrubs to help block the wind will help with water conservation and cut down on your water bill. If supplemental water is needed, watering in the morning, before sunrise, is normally best to prevent evaporation due to the warmer temperatures and the wind. (i.e.: using an automatic irrigation system)

Below is a list of drought-resistant plants that can be used in a Xeriscape planting. This list is not exhaustive, but does contain plants that are either native or tolerant of dry conditions.

•  Asters Many Heights and Varieties Salvia
• Aquilegia (Columbine) Eupatorium (Joe Pye Weed)
• Asclepias Achillea (Yarrow)
• Coreopsis Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)
• Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Yucca
• Liatris (Blazing Star) Sedum
• Lavandula (Lavender) Delosperma (Ice Plant)
• Buddleia (Butterfly Bush) Spiraea
• Hamamelis (Witch Hazel) Milk Weed

I hope that you will consider some of the principles of Xeriscaping the next time you think about adding a new phase to your landscape. You will be doing both the environment and your check book a favor!