The 5 Rules of Xeriscaping

The current water shortage is reviving interest in gardening methods that use little to no irrigation.  The term for this type of landscaping is “xeriscaping” (sometimes called “xeroscaping.”)  Xeriscaping allows landscape designers to create beautiful outdoor spaces that need no irrigation, with plants that can survive only on rainfall or with very occasional hand watering.

Because xeriscaping is rising in popularity, this is a good time to learn the principles involved in this type of landscaping.  Knowing the five rules of xeriscaping will help you plan your outdoor spaces mindfully and use less water.

The Five Rules of Xeriscaping

There are five basic rules for xeriscaping that allow designers and homeowners to plan, plant, and maintain beautiful outdoor spaces.  These rules are:

• Start with the right soil. The type of soil in which you grow your plants will, in large part, determine how much water you use.  You can choose the right, drought-resistant plants, but destroy your efforts if your soil is not properly prepared or maintained.  In general, xeriscaping requires soil that can capture and hold on to moisture in order to prevent drying out and the need for constant watering.  In addition, the soil must be maintained at the proper pH level to keep plants healthy.  Stressed plants often require more water when compared with healthy plants.
• Reduce “thirsty” plants and growth. Choosing the right plants is one of the most important aspects of xeriscaping.  Within any plant family, there are usually varieties that require a great deal of water, and others that use less.  Furthermore, some types of plants, such as succulents, have a natural ability to store water, making them perfect for xeriscaping yards. 
• Water efficiently. Watering properly, when watering is required, is one of the most crucial elements in saving money and resources.  Often, broadcast sprinkling or spraying is not the best way to water plants.  Instead, an integrated drip watering system or hand-watering with a can will often use much less water and will cut down tremendously on waste.
• Mulch properly. Many people understand how to water and choose drought-tolerant plants, but forget the true benefit of mulching plants properly.  Mulch not only looks attractive but serves a very important purpose in preventing evaporation of water and keeping water near the plant’s roots. 
• Provide proper maintenance. Proper maintenance to keep plants healthy is critical for a xeriscaping yard.  Because your plants will receive less water, they must rely on rainfall and the soil to provide what they need.  You can help them succeed by providing the right nutrients, trimming and pruning, and thinning when necessary.

At Juniper Landscape Company, we have been helping San Diego homeowners and business owners design, build and maintain beautiful landscapes for many years.  With our expertise in xeriscaping, you can plan and build a wonderful, relaxing outdoor area that requires little to no water maintenance.  This can help you save money and have a positive impact on the environment.  Call Juniper Landscape Company today to learn more about how we can help you build the perfect xeriscape yard!