The Benefits of Xeriscaping

As we get into fall, dry crisp weather can wreak havoc on lushly landscaped yards. Now is a great time to abandon the high maintenance of water-reliant yards, and consider landscaping with plants that are native to your area. Natives are often plants that can survive with minimal water and care, and survive on their own. In states that have predominantly more sunny dry days than wet, rain days a year, xeriscaping may be a good solution.

Xeriscaping refers to landscaping in ways that do not require supplemental irrigation. It is promoted in areas that do not have easily accessible supplies of fresh water.

In 1978, the concept of xeriscaping was actually trademarked by the water department in Denver, Colorado. (Sorry, we mean Xeriscape™).

Some common plants used in xeriscaping are agave, cactus, lavender, juniper, sedum and thyme.

In some areas, terms such as drought-tolerant landscaping, zeroscaping, and smart scaping are used instead.

The advantages of xeriscaping are vast. The most obvious perk is lower water bills, and water conservation. Not only do dry-gardeners save money, but they also save time. There is less work needed for maintenance, making gardening more simplified and stress-free.

With a La Nina coming, southern states may have a water shortage due to the forecasted dry weather. When water restrictions are implemented, xeriscape plants will tend to survive, while more traditional plants may not.

Dry scape plants are often those that also attract butterflies, bees and other fauna as well.

You can see a full list of xeriscape plants here.