Xeriscaping A Beautiful, Low Mantinenance Solution To Landcaping

Xeriscaping is a style of landscape that dramatically reduces water consumption and the need for yard maintenance, like mowing

Xeriscaping is a style of landscape that dramatically reduces water consumption and the need for yard maintenance, like mowing. Xeriscaping also eliminates the need for pesticides, and fertilizers, when native plants are used. I know that the term xeriscape conjures images of yuccas and cacti, but there are many varieties of beautiful xeriscape perennials that provide a wide array of floral color, while reducing your need for supplemental irrigation. As with all perennials, it is very important to pay attention to planting zones, light requirements, and water needs. Most of the time, if the plants are purchased from a local nursery, they are suited to the climate of the planting zone where you live. This is definitely not the case if you purchase plants from online nurseries.It is important, when xeriscaping your yard, to enrich the soil, particularly if you live in the desert, as desert soil will soak up any rain water, and then allow it to evaporate quickly. It is best to add soil that is enriched with organic materials, compost is well suited for this purpose. Mulching around plants also helps to keep any moisture in the ground, where your plants can access it. Trees can also provide shade to area of you xeriscaped lawn, which also aids in preventing moisture evaporation.It is important that when you are planning out the plants that you want in your yard, that you make sure that you lay out the plants with similar water requirements together, to ensure the success of your xeriscaped landscape. Even though the goal of a xeriscaped yard is conserved water usage, it may be necessary to water occasionally. Soaker hoses and drip lines are the best suited irrigation tools for this purpose. It is also very important that the plants are not over-watered. As most of the plants that you will likely use are drought resistant, they very require little water. It is usually best to water deeply, but infrequently.When planning to xeriscape your yard, it may be wise to consult with experts from your local nursery and even a professional landscaper. Between the stone, sand, mulch, and plants, xeriscaping can be somewhat costly up front, but will save you an enormous amount of money on both watering your lawn, and maintenance. Stone patios and walkways can also add visual appeal to a xeriscaped yards, as well as create usable living space.