Xeriscape landscaping, or xeriscaping, is landscaping done with water conservation in mind. In fact, most xeriscaping attempts to design landscaped areas that use little to no supplemental water.
Sound impossible? Think again. Xeriscaping can actually create landscaped areas that are as beautiful as they are environmentally friendly. But whether or not the look of xeriscaping appeals to you, no one can deny that there are some amazing upsides to this style of landscaping.
Here are some of the biggest benefits of xeriscape landscaping.
Water conservation
Of course, this benefit has to go at the top of the list. Xeriscaping is specifically designed to use very little supplemental water, making it the best option for drought-prone areas (like Arizona) or anyone who is concerned about conserving water (for environmental or even financial reasons). It’s estimated that a well-xeriscaped landscape can reduce water use by up to 75%.
Good for all climates
While xeriscaping is particularly beneficial for dry climates in areas that are concerned about water usage, it can actually be successfully practiced anywhere. Using your natural landscape, knowing what plants thrive naturally in your area, and adapting things accordingly can help you create a beautifully xeriscaped space.
No need for pesticides or fertilizers
Because you are using plants that thrive naturally in your climate, you probably won’t have to use chemical-laden pesticides or fertilizers to help your plants grow. Xeriscaped plants typically do very well on their own, without added chemicals.
Use native plants
Xeriscaping focuses on native plants that will survive and thrive naturally—using your area’s natural soil, sunlight, and rainfall. Allowing these native plants to take the spotlight means a xeriscaped landscape that is naturally beautiful and low maintenance.
Low maintenance
Speaking of low maintenance, that is another huge benefit of xeriscaping. There’s no watering schedule to stick to, no window of opportunity for fertilization, and so on. Xeriscaping also promotes putting plants with similar care needs close together, so they can all be watered at once, further reducing wasted water and adding to xeriscaping’s low maintenance appeal.
Bonus: Tips for xeriscaping in Arizona
Xeriscaping appeals to any Arizonan who would like to conserve water or pay lower water bills. As water is a precious commodity in Arizona, xeriscaping is a fantastic option if you can make it work in your yard. Here are some quick tips that might help.
- Use turf (fake grass) whenever possible
- Group plants that need more watering together in the same area
- Choose plants that don’t need a lot of supplemental water
- Adjust irrigation or watering schedules seasonally
- Only prune when necessary
- Work with a landscape designer to determine the best spots to place certain plants in your yard
By following some simple tips and taking some time to do careful planning, you can enjoy all the benefits of xeriscaped landscaping. Need a little help or expert advice? Don’t hesitate to talk to a professional landscape designer to help you get the low-maintenance, environmentally friendly, xeriscaped yard of your dreams.
