The X - Files

Flower_bee Xeriscaping is a way to garden using a minimum of water and energy. The following techniques are a must in dry-weather climes, but also provide useful guidelines for environmentally conscious gardeners everywhere. 

  • Group plants by their water needs. When possible, put high-need plants in naturally wetter areas of your property.
  • Test your soil. Add organic matter when necessary - maybe from your own compost pile - to increase your soil's water-holding capacity.
  • Mulch. Cover plant beds with composted leaves or grass to help retain moisture.
  • Plant native species. Plants that have evolved in your area's climate are more naturally adapted to its water conditions.

 

The City of Boulder Colorado offers these tips, as well as answers to misconceptions about xeriscaping. 

  • Seek out turf alternatives like patios, decks, and mulches.
  • Locate grass or turf only were it provides functional use.
  • Add compost and use native plants.
  • Water less often but thoroughly to encourage deep root growth.
  • Terrace slopes to prevent water runoff.

 

More Resources: 

 

 

Bookmark and Share

TrackBack

TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://www.typepad.com/services/trackback/6a00e554936bef8834010534b2a41b970c

Listed below are links to weblogs that reference The X - Files:

Comments

Feed You can follow this conversation by subscribing to the comment feed for this post.

Kaferine De Nerve

Take caution with turf alternatives like decks and patios--try not to increase the impervious surface area. Impervious surfaces increase storm water runoff. Look for permeable material for outdoor patio areas.

Posted by: Kaferine De Nerve | August 03, 2010 at 12:10 PM

Post a comment

Comments are moderated, and will not appear on this weblog until the author has approved them.

If you have a TypeKey or TypePad account, please Sign In.

EARTH SAVING NEWS