Water Efficient Landscaping

Water is just one component of your landscape planning–but in the arid west, itʼs an extremely important component. Planning for water efficiencyin your landscape design not only helps the environment, it also helps you avoid unnecessary headaches and heartaches over foiled plantings and disappointing designs. More than half of the water consumed by an average household is used for landscaping. In the summer months water use can increase by 250%, the majority of which goes for outdoor watering. Xeriscaping, a practice based on designing an attractive, sustainable landscape that minimizes water use and sound horticultural principles, is one possible solution to this problem. Xeriscape is coined from the Greek word Xeros, which means dry. But unlike the dry unattractive landscape some people may picture when they hear the term, xeriscaped, landscapes can be both beautiful and water efficient. Xeriscaping is an excellent alternative to a “traditional” landscape, makes wise use of our water supply, and helps keep your water bills reasonable. Whether planning a new landscape or renovating an old one, following these principles will help you save water and achieve your gardening goals. Plan and design comprehensively. When making plans for your garden, think about how you use your yard. Do you entertain guests, need a place for children to play, want to block an ugly view? Once you have determined your needs, consider the view, the slope, sun exposure, placement of structures, existing vegetation, and the soils of the area. Create a plan deciding where things will be and when different areas will be done; Landscapes are often installed in phases.

Here is a brief list to help you avoid some common gardening pitfalls and make
the most of your water efficient garden:

1. Check sun/shade conditions. Sun patterns vary with time of day and year.
2. Evaluate soil and improve if necessary. Soil types can vary within a given site. An analysis based on random soil sampling can provide information for plant selection and soil amendments. If appropriate, natural soil amendments or compost can improve root development, water penetration, and retention. Remember to improve the soil before planting or installing an irrigation system.
3. Promote good drainage. Excess moisture in the root zone increases occurrence of disease and pest infestations and promotes root rot.
4. Follow proper planting techniques. When planting, space new plants based upon mature size and shape. Even drought-tolerant plants, when new, need a good consistent supply of water to get started. Once established in the soil, watering can be reduced.
5. Donʼt overwater! Use a soil probe or your finger to check for soil moisture below the surface. The soil in the root zone can be moist even when the surface appears dry.
6. Consider the relationship among plants based upon their mature sizes and shapes.
7. A garden or yard is personal, so select plants to display colors, foliage, and flowers that appeal to you. Foliage, bark, and flower contrast and seasonal change add beauty to your water efficient landscape.