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