What is Xeriscape Landscaping?

Xeriscape is a method of landscaping that utilizes drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation techniques to conserve water and reduce the need for frequent watering and maintenance. The term "xeriscape" comes from the Greek word "xeros," meaning dry, and "scape," meaning view or scene. The concept of xeriscaping was first developed in the 1980s by the Denver Water Department in Colorado as a response to the state's ongoing drought problems.

The principles of xeriscaping are based on the use of native and adapted plants that are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions. These plants are often able to survive with minimal irrigation and are resistant to pests and diseases. Xeriscape gardens also incorporate efficient irrigation methods, such as drip irrigation and soaker hoses, which deliver water directly to the roots of plants, rather than to the surrounding soil.

Benefits of Xeriscape

Save Water

One of the key benefits of xeriscaping is its ability to conserve water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, traditional landscaping can consume up to 60% of household water use in some areas. By using drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation techniques, xeriscaping can reduce water usage by up to 50%. This not only helps to conserve a precious natural resource, but it can also save homeowners money on their water bills.

Reduce Fertilizer and Pesticides

In addition to water conservation, xeriscaping also has other environmental benefits. Drought-resistant plants require less fertilizer and pesticides, which can reduce runoff and pollution in local waterways. Xeriscape gardens also provide habitat for wildlife, such as birds, butterflies, and other pollinators, and can help to reduce the urban heat island effect.

Designing a xeriscape garden is a process that starts with an assessment of the site, including factors such as sun exposure, soil conditions, and drainage. From there, a plan is developed that incorporates drought-resistant plants that are well-suited to the site, along with hardscape elements such as rocks, gravel, and mulch. These elements help to reduce water evaporation and retain moisture in the soil. Irrigation systems are designed to deliver water directly to the roots of plants, rather than to the surrounding soil, and are often set on timers to water only when necessary.

Plants Used for Xeriscape

The plants used in xeriscaping are typically divided into three categories: accent plants, specimen plants, and groundcovers. Accent plants are used to add color and interest to the garden, such as cactus, succulents, and agave. Specimen plants are used to create focal points, such as large shrubs or trees. Groundcovers are used to cover large areas of the garden, such as creeping juniper and creeping thyme.

Some examples of drought-resistant plants that are well-suited to xeriscaping include:

• Agave: These plants are known for their striking rosettes of leaves and their ability to survive with minimal water.

• Cactus: Cactus are well-suited to xeriscaping because they are able to store water in their thick stems and can survive long periods of drought.

• Succulents: Succulents are another group of plants that are well-suited to xeriscaping because they are able to store water in their leaves and can survive with minimal irrigation.

• Yucca: Yucca is a drought-resistant plant that is known for its tall spikes of white or cream-colored flowers.

• Sagebrush: Sagebrush is a drought-resistant plant that is known for its gray-green foliage and its ability to survive in poor soils.

When you work with SEF Construction and Landscape to install xeriscape landscaping at your Colorado Springs home, we make sure the plants and soil work for your unique environment. Click this link to get started with Colorado Springs xeriscape landscaping.