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Water conserving landscapes can be as lush as desired |
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Turf area replaced with succulents and other water-wise plants in this California front yard. |
Water conservation is becoming an increasingly important issue as drought cycles coupled with increasing urban population growth is putting pressure on water supplies in areas thoughout the US.
Traditional landscape practices tend to promote inefficient water use. A shift in thinking is necessary in order to promote water conservation in the home landscape.
Sources of Water Waste in the Home Landscape
- Leaking outdoor faucets and irrigation pipes
- Car washing
- Hosing down driveways and sidewalks
- Evaporation from bare soils
- Inefficient landscape designs
- Improper irrigation design and installation
- Inappropriate plant placement and grouping
- Overwatering
Seven Principles of Water-Wise Design are currently being promoted to reduce water use in the landscape. These principles include using native or plants adapted to the local climate, reducing the amount of lawn, using mulches, hydrozoning, and applying appropriate amounts of water for plant needs.
Additional Resources
West
California - Xeriscape
Colorado - Xeriscape Basics
Water Conservation in and Around the Home
Northeast
Delaware - Landscape Design for Water Conservation
Southeast
Arkansas - Water Conservation Tips for Landscaping
Southwest
Texas - Landscape Water Conservation… Xeriscape
Xersicape - Landscape Water Conservation