|
|
|
Xeriscape is a way to save water in our
arid climate of Denver. Xeriscape is a word derived from the
combination of a Greek word "Xeros" meaning dry and "scape" from the
word "landscape."
We define Xeriscape as an attractive, sustainable
landscape that conserves water, is based on sound horticultural
practices, and shows evidence of care. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Creating a water-efficient landscape begins with a
well-thought-out landscape design. Sketch your yard with locations
of existing structures, trees, shrubs and grass areas. Then consider
the landscape budget, appearance, function, maintenance and water
requirements. Local landscape architects, designers, nurserymen and
county Extension agents can help in this decision making.
Implementing your landscape design can be done gradually over
several years.
To increase plant health and conserve water, add
organic matter to the soil of shrub and flower bed areas. This
increases the soil's ability to absorb and store water in a form
available to the plant. As a rule-of-thumb, till in 4 to 6 inches of
organic material such as shredded pine bark, peat and rice hulls.
For trees, however, incorporating organic matter is not necessary;
for large turfgrass areas, it is not economically feasible. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Select trees, shrubs and groundcovers based on their
adaptability to your region's soil and climate. Texas is blessed
with an abundance of beautiful native plants which are naturally
adapted to the region. Most have lower water demands, fewer pest
problems and less fertilizer needs than many nonadapted, exotic
plants brought into Texas landscapes. Through the support of the
nursery industry, native Texas plants are becoming more available in
retail nurseries and garden centers. Combining Texas natives with
well-adapted exotic plants is a key to a beautiful, interesting
landscape which conserves water. Refer to the tables in this
publications, and check with your local nursery or county Extension
agent for recommendations on adapted landscape plants for your area. |
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
 |
|
An added benefit of Xeriscape landscapes is less
maintenance. A well-designed landscape can decrease maintenance by
as much as 50 percent through reduced mowing; once-a-year mulching;
elimination of weak, unadapted plants; and more efficient watering
techniques. |
|
| |
|
| |
Of the tremendous amounts of water applied to lawns
and gardens, much of it is never absorbed by the plants and put to
use. Some water is lost to runoff by being applied too rapidly, and
some water evaporates from exposed, unmulched soil; but, the
greatest waste of water is applying too much too often.
In addition to overwatering the plant, excess
irrigation can leach nutrients deep into the soil away from plant
roots, increasing the chances of polluting groundwater. Similarly,
runoff caused by excess irrigation can carry polluting fertilizers
and pesticides to streams and lakes. The waste or pollution of high
quality water through inefficient irrigation practices can be
eliminated through proper watering techniques.
Most lawns receive twice
as much water as they require for a healthy appearance. The key to
watering lawns is to apply the water infrequently, yet thoroughly.
This creates a deep, well-rooted lawn that efficiently uses water
stored in the soil.
To know when to water the lawn, simply observe the
grass. Wilting and discoloration are signs of water stress. At the
first sign of wilting, you have 24 to 48 hours to water before
serious injury occurs. Apply 1 inch of water to the lawn as rapidly
as possible without runoff.
Watering only when needed and watering thoroughly
produces a deep-rooted lawn which is more water efficient and
drought enduring. |
|
| |
|
|
All Proscape - P.O. Box 372024, Denver, Co. 80237 Phone: 720-300-4772, 303-753-5780 |
|
|
|
