Saving water in your yard with Xeriscaping
This morning we're getting our hands dirty to give you tips on how to keep your landscape drought friendly.
Xeriscaping is a trend that uses drought tolerant plants to landscape your yard. It has a lot of benefits: you can save time, money and water by gardening in a way that requires less water and fewer resources. And, it's not just for water-thirsty yards. Homeowners who lack a green thumb or want a low-maintenance yard can take advantage of xeriscaping options. Pick out your favorite drought-tolerant plants and pebbles, and start making a plan for your new, low-maintenance yard.
Here are some tips from the Home Depot Garden Center:
Tip 1. Pick the Right Plants
It may seem obvious, but it's crucial to choose plants that don't require a lot of water. Succulents are a great solution that don't need a lot of water and are easy to grow. Aeonium, a succulent shrub, is a good option for rocky areas. If you're looking for something other than succulents, African Daisies thrive in the sun and come in a mix of hues. You can also find plants that are native to the region, especially for areas that consistently face dry conditions. These plants will have an easier time surviving since they are naturally equipped to handle the environment.
Tip 2. Soil Prep is Key
Finding the right mix of soil can be tricky, but necessary. Especially in a dry climate, the soil needs to be able to hold the small amount of moisture and nutrients available for the plant. Soil testing kits can be a good way to pH balance right for your garden. Mulch can also be helpful for retaining moisture and preventing weed growth. It's also important to take note of unleveled areas of the yard. These can affect water drainage and might increase evaporation, keeping certain plants from receiving water. You may need to decrease the slope, or reconsider where you place certain plants.
Tip 3. Watering and Irrigating
Determine the best irrigation plan for your plants. Drought-tolerant plants often need a lot of water in the beginning, but once they've established deep roots, require very little water. Irrigation systems are sometimes the most efficient way to give the plants the water they need. By supplying water directly to the base of the plant, there's less opportunity for the water to evaporate and be wasted.
Home automation allows you to customize your irrigation system-even while away on vacation-helping to decrease water waste.
Tip 4. Rocks Add Design and Texture
While succulent gardens and soil can play a big role in your xeriscaped yard, there are also ways to use non-living outdoor materials to add a unique design dynamic. Hardscaping elements, such as stones, pavers and pebbles, allow you to get creative with different patterns and colors while keeping out weeds and protecting soil from high temperatures. Landscape additions like marble chips and pea gravel come in a variety of shapes and sizes-ready for you to mix and match.
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