How Dryer Climate Plants Could Be Right For You

The term xeriscape is derived from the Greek word xeros’ and scape’ which translates into the dry scene’. There is a misconception that drought-tolerant plants are dull and unattractive, when in fact many of them are vibrant and colorful. If you want to save money on your water bill, but still have a beautiful yard, xeriscape might be the new landscape for you.

More than 50% of your water usage goes to the landscape outside; having a xeriscape could reduce your water usage by 70% or more.

Principles of Xeriscaping

• Plan
• Plant low-water-use plants
• Incorporate turf sparingly
• Irrigate efficiently
• Consider improving the soil
• Use mulch
• Properly maintain your new xeriscape

Let’s Look at 3 Regions across the US, which are the best and the worst for xeriscape:

Region I

Plants: Coronilla varia, Cistus Albidus, Buddleia Nivea, Abelia x Edward Goucher, Phalaris arundinacea Picta

Maintenance: Water if the plants look very dry and cover during very cold seasons. Hand water, or install a drip that will provide water directly to the base of the plant.

Region II

Plants: Bougainvillea, Buccaneer Palm, Live Oak, Swamp Fern

Maintenance: Make sure any unexpected cold fronts are tackled by covering plants. Drip may need to be installed for certain plants.

Region III

Plants: Butterfly Bush, Juniper, Texas Red Yucca, Oat Grass

Maintenance: Very low maintenance and a few drip may be necessary, Drip Irrigation

Planning For Xeriscape:

• Look for partially exposed areas, and protected areas, and prep your soil
• Draw out your landscape (need help? Click here)
• Look for water-conserving and drought-tolerant plants. Water-conserving plants retain moisture rather than releasing it into the air. Drought-tolerant plants can survive bouts of dry weather.
• Visit the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, this provides users with helpful knowledge of your region based on temperature.

** It is important to note that very rainy, or very dry areas are perfect for xeriscape because the native plants will thrive almost entirely without drip irrigation or any further assistance.**