How To Xeriscape a Beautiful Yard

The word “xeriscaping” is a compound of two Greek words:  “xero,” which means “dry,” and “scape,” which means “view.”  Together, the two words combine to mean a landscape plan that functions with minimal irrigation.  Xeriscaping allows home and business owners to save money and contribute to the health of the planet.

How Does Xeriscaping Work?

The thought behind xeriscaping is that by choosing the right plants and mingling them with hardscape, gravel, and other features, the landscape can be both beautiful and practical.  A good xeriscaping plan will include both visual and functional aspects and rely on naturally occurring rain and moisture to provide water for plans.

A well-designed landscape plan can integrate drought-tolerant plants, hardscape, and other features to require minimal watering.  By creating this type of landscape plan, home and business owners are able to feature beautiful plants and lovely hardscapes while still enjoying low water use and maintenance for their yards. 

How Does A Landscape Designer Create A Xeriscape Plan?

Creating a good xeriscaping plan requires several steps on the part of the landscape designer:

• Assess the natural features of the landscape. A landscape designer will measure elevations such as hills and depressions to get an idea of natural water flow.  The landscape designer will also note any natural features that can be used to advantage in designing a xeriscaping plan.  For example, what plants naturally flourish in the area?  By noting the plants that are already thriving with minimal water, also known as xerophytes, a landscape designer can gain inspiration for a xeriscaping plan.
• Replace and rebuild. In many cases, a landscape designer is replacing the current landscape, such as a grassy yard.  Xeriscaping plans may include digging up such plantings and replacing them with hardscape that features a few beautiful, water-friendly plants rather than large lawns or beds that require constant irrigation.
• Design and install efficient irrigation. There are many methods of irrigation that are much friendlier and healthier for the planet than traditional sprinklers or hoses.  These irrigation methods can be substituted in a xeriscaping plan for traditional irrigation, allowing the home or business owner to water when needed during prolonged dry periods with minimal waste.  Examples include drip irrigation, which delivers water directly to the base of the plant, and soaker hoses, which minimize water use while suturing the ground around the plant.
• Put it all together. Once the perfect design is created, it is time to install hardscape, plants, and irrigation.  A landscape designer can bring it all together and offer beautiful, durable, and water-saving results.

There are many ways to design and build xeriscaped lawns in San Diego.  At Juniper Landscape Company, we have been working with San Diego homeowners and businesses for years and helping them find the perfect solutions to their water-friendly landscaping goals.  If you are interested in saving water and money, as well as doing something great for the planet, call us today to learn more about how we can help you xeriscape your yard.