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Q: Just what is Xeriscape?
A: Xeriscape is a coined word
derived from the Greek 'Xeros', meaning dry. It is used to describe landscaping
with water conservation as a major objective. Our definition of Xeriscape is: An
attractive, sustainable landscape that conserves water and is based on sound
horticultural practices.
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Q: How does it differ from
conventional landscaping?
A: Primarily by the use of plants
adapted to this area and the establishment of hydrozones. Most conventional
landscapes are based on landscapes of the Eastern United States. These assume
enough natural rainfall and good soil over the entire landscape for
high-water-use plants. Xeriscape restricts high water use plants, such as
bluegrass, to areas where it will serve a purpose or need.
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Q: Hold it! Zones? Plants adapted
to this area? What sort of plans? What sort of zones?
A: Not all plants need the same
amount of water. This is the basic hydrozone concept. Further, plants should be
chosen by their adaptability to the site and their ultimate size, color and
texture. Virtually all plants have a place in a Xeriscape as long as they are
grouped and irrigated with plants that have similar water needs.
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Q: Can I start a xericsape during
a drought, and/or watering restrictions?
A: Yes, with current water restrictions
more than enough water is available to establish trees and shrubs.
Watering trees and shrubs is not a set time and day, but something you have to
check for. If you spend the time to check your plants, you will know when
they need water. Establishing trees and shrubs is not hard to do, We had
over a 98% success rate last year during the drought in which we had water
restrictions. Keep in mind most of the trees and shrubs that died were a
result of OVER WATERING!
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Q: The Xeriscapes I have seen are
rock, plastic and yucca. Is this it?
A: No. A properly
designed and installed Xeriscape is attractive, water efficient and requires low
maintenance compared to traditional bluegrass-focused landscapes. It does not
require a change in lifestyle or that bluegrass not be a part of the landscape.
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Q: But I thought all I had to do
was get some plants and put them in.
A: You and a lot of other people!
Plant selection is only one of the seven Xeriscape principles. Most of the
Xeriscape recommendations are also part of any good conventional landscape.
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Q: How much water will I save?
A: A lot depends on your previous
water use habits. A 25% to 50% saving in irrigation costs is a reasonable
expectation.
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Q: What about cost?
A: As we said before, there is not
that much difference between a Xeriscape and a good conventional landscape. The
initial costs for a Xeriscape will probably be slightly higher, primarily due to
the higher cost of plant materials. The savings in irrigation and maintenance
makes it cost-effective in the long run.
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Q: How do I get started?
A: Start by following the 7 steps
on the Xeric Page. Those guidelines will give you a good idea of your
goals as well as what is available. Feel free to contact us at the nursery
if you have any questions, or stop by and see what they look like in person.
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Xeric Q&A
