XERISCAPE

 

Native p1ants need only about half as much water as imported varieties.

 

BACKGROUND

 

Xeriscape (from the Greek word Xeros, meaning dry) is a modern approach to landscaping which has become popular due to water shortages. Some years ago, experts realized that much of the water used in residential planting went to plants that were not suited for the regions in which they were being grown. Tests done wida equally attractive native varieties showed that it was possible to save as much as 54% of the water, keep plants healthier, and improve sod conditions. Xeriscape is not only practical, it's eminently satisfying‑‑because youÕll wind up with an aesthetically pleasing yard thaes also ecologically sound.

 

DID YOU KNOW

 

Droughtresistant plants aren't just limited to cacti and succulants. They include hundreds of species of colorful flowers, flowering shrubs, vines and ground covers that provide beautiful altema, tives to traditional landscapes. For instance, jasmine, bougainvillea, wisteria, sweet alyssum and daffodil are all lowwater use plants.

 

There are many lowmaintainance grasses, too. In Texas, for instance, where water can be scarce, the standard Bluegrass needs to be watered every four days. Buffalograss, better adapted to the climate, requires water only every 2 3 weeks.

 

SIMPLE THINGS TO DO

 

We're not suggesting you go out, rip up your fiont lawn, and instantly replace it with cactus. We are suggesting you take a new look at landscaping your home. Some of the principles of Xeriscape ‑‑drip irrigation, heavy mulching of planting beds, organic soil im, proverrients to allow for better water absorption and retentionare applicable to any garden design.

 

Contact a local horticulture society or nursery to learn more.

 

SOURCES

The Texas Water Development Board, P.O. Box 13231, Capitol

Station, Austin, TX 78711. Write for Xeriscape brochures.