Xeriscaping is the practice of designing our boulevards, parks, and islands in such a way as to use as little water as possible. By using native plants, naturalized plants, trees, ground covers, and other features we can create environmentally friendly, attractive, efficient, and cost-effective outdoor space.

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What’s Involved in Transitioning to Xeriscaping Landscaping?

Xeriscaping involves the use of multiple strategies to create environmentally friendly and climate appropriate landscapes that are aesthetically pleasing. These can include:

Use native & naturalized plants:

• Perennials
• Shrubs
• Plants providing nectar, seeds and berries for pollinators, insects, birds, animals and people
• Adapted to local climate

Plant trees to:

• Provide shade that helps retain ground moisture
• Act as a wind buffer
• Create natural air conditions in the summer
• Control soil erosion
• Increase property values

Use groundcovers to:

• Reduce/eliminate mowing requirements by replacing grass with mulch, decorative stones, and low-growing plants like fescues or micro- clover
• Retain moisture, reduce maintenance, eliminate irrigation, and save money

Foster sustainable water use by:

• Reducing run-off, maximizing absorption
• Encouraging water conservation, re use
• Minimizing water loss and waste

Reduce maintenance by:

• Minimizing lawn mowing, trimming, pruning, and cultivating etc.
• Mulching leaves in the fall
• Reducing or eliminating pesticides/ herbicides
• Using natural fertilizers
• Reducing noise, lowering costs, and enabling re-allocation of funds