Water Saving Landscaping: Xeriscaping
Xeriscaping is a landscaping method that emphasizes water conservation techniques. The seven principles of xeriscaping are smart planning, plant selection, efficient irrigation, use of mulches, soil analysis and improvement, practical turf use and proper maintenance.
- Smart planning. A landscaping plan analyzing plant placement, existing structures and topography aids the designer(s) in considering important issues such as irrigation and maintenance needs. For example, planning irrigation according to plant type can minimize overwatering.
- Plant selection. Xeriscaping emphasizes the use of drought-tolerant and native plants. Plants that can withstand dry seasons and local conditions will require less water.
- Efficient irrigation. Plant-specific irrigation strategies and the use of more efficient irrigation systems enable the use of less irrigation water.
- Use of mulches. Mulch protects the soil from erosion and aids in moisture retention.
- Soil analysis and improvement. Adding organic matter to the soil increases its ability to hold and deliver moisture to plants.
- Practical turf use. Turfgrass requires more water than most plants and its use should be strategic. Drought-tolerant varieties of turfgrass do exist.
- Proper maintenance. Xeriscapes require less maintenance than typical landscape designs but will require some attention such as weeding and mulching. Properly maintaining the landscape means that the plants will need less water.
RATIONALE
According to the United States Green Building Council, outside water uses, primarily landscaping, account for 30% of the 26 billion gallons of water consumed daily in the United States. With limited water resources, maintaining a natural water supply is important in terms of current and future water consumption. Water-efficient landscaping measures conserve water, lessening the impact on limited supplies. Xeriscaping conserves water by reducing irrigation needs in landscaping.
EFFORT REQUIRED
Xeriscaping requires more planning but less maintenance than traditional landscaping.
BENEFIT
- Water conservation. Water conservation is the main benefit of xeriscaping. Water conservation limits the strain on water bodies and protects water resources for current and future generations.
- Reduced utility bills. Reducing water use for irrigation has financial benefits through lower utility payments.
- Less maintenance. Drought-tolerant plants do not require as much irrigation as other plants. Other xeriscaping strategies, such as the use of appropriate adapted and native plants, may also reduce the need for weeding or fertilization.
- To quantify the impact of xeriscaping on water consumption, it may be helpful to establish a water use baseline. From that baseline a project can demonstrate a percentage reduction in water use for irrigation.
RISKS
May not satisfy aesthetic purposes.
ACTION AGENTS
Landscape architect, architect, building or site owner, horticulturist, plant nurseries, and landscape maintenance providers.
COST
Costs vary. Sophisticated irrigation systems may cost more than traditional systems but the payback period may be short due to less water use, fewer maintenance requirements, and the potentially lower cost of installation.
