What is Xeriscaping?
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
