Xeriscape Gardens

Outdoor water usage can account for about 40 percent of household usage in summer months.

Xeriscape gardening is an integral part of our water conservation program. Derived from the Greek word “xeros”, meaning dry, Xeriscaping is the creative establishment of a garden that uses less water than a traditional garden. This is done by selecting plants that are drought tolerant and using horticultural techniques to make the best use of water. Homeowners can easily reduce their outdoor water use while creating a colorful, natural garden that tends to be low in maintenance.

Planning & Design:
Take time to plan your future garden. Items you should consider include: soil and light conditions, drainage, plants to retain, maintenance level desired, family interests and plant or color preferences, and your budget.

Soil Improvements:
If your yard is sloped, use terraces and retaining walls to reduce water run-off. Before planting your garden be sure to mix compost or peat moss into the soil. This organic matter will help the soil retain water.

Practical Lawns:
Outdoor water usage can account for about 40 percent of household usage in summer months.

Limit the amount of area you devote to a lawn. Plant groundcovers and add hard surface areas such as patios, decks or walkways. When replanting lawn areas, use drought tolerant seed mixes.

Efficient Irrigation:
For those areas that need it, install drip or trickle irrigation systems. These are designed to use water efficiently and are available from local garden centers.

Effective Use of Mulches:
Use mulches such as shredded bark, shredded leaves, pine needles or gravel in a layer three inches deep to keep the soil moist, smother weeds and prevent erosion.

Maintenance is Essential:
Properly timed pruning, fertilization, pest control and weeding will preserve your landscape’s beauty.

Plant Selection:
There’s a wide variety of low water use trees, shrubs, flowers and groundcovers that can be used to plant your garden. Many of then require watering only in their first or second year of establishment.

Here are samples of plants which will thrive in a conservation garden in the New York/New Jersey area. Check with your local nursery for other suggestions.