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| Drought tolerant plants, gravel mulch, and walls were used to create this lush feeling no water back yard in New Mexico. Note that there is no turf in this yard. Photo credit: Steven A. Gunther in Sunset.com |
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| This xeric garden, planted on a gravel berm, showcases yuccas, agaves, desert willows, native grasses, and cacti. Photo credit: Digging |
Xeric gardening is becoming increasingly popular as increasing urban populations coupled with drought take their toll on water supplies nationwide.
The term xeric (pronounced zerik) simply means 'dry' in Greek. Xeric plants are adapted to dry conditions and require little to no water during the growing season. Planting a xeric garden does not mean zeroscape! Many beautiful drought tolerant plants are available to meet the needs of your landscape.
Use plants adapted to the natural rainfall patterns of the local area. Native plants may be the best choice as they tend to be adapted to naturally occurring periodic drought cycles and help blend the garden into the local landscape.
Seven basic principles were developed to create a xeric garden and reduce water use in the landscape.
- Planning and design
- Soil analysis
- Practical turf areas
- Appropriate plant selection
- Efficient irrigation
- Use of mulches
- Appropriate maintenance
For more information on the seven principles of xeriscape design and plant selection please visit the following sites:
West
Colorado: Xeriscaping: Retrofit Your Yard
Colorado: Xeriscape Plant Coices
Colorado: Water-Wise Landscape Design
Oregon: Xeriscaping in te High Desert
Texas: Landscape Water Conservation... Xeriscape
Northeast
Southeast
South Carolina: Xeriscape: Landscape Water Conservation in the Southeast
Florida: Xeriscaping