Figuring out the right plants to add to your landscape is always challenging. You need to balance texture, colors, and size while ensuring that they can survive in your climate. However, there is an easier way to create the landscape of your dreams with less work. Xeriscape Landscaping is the answer to your problems.
What is Xeriscaping?
The word “xeriscaping” has been around for a long time, since the 1980s. It combines the Greek word xeros, meaning dry, and landscaping. Xeriscape landscaping is about using the right plants in the right place. Xeriscape landscaping focuses on using native plants. This has the advantage of being easier to maintain, but it is also better for the environment.
Xeriscaping is a method of landscaping that attempts to reduce or eliminate the need for supplemental irrigation. Using native plants that have adapted to the Florida climate with water-efficient techniques will make your yard more beautiful and easier to maintain than you ever thought possible.
There are many benefits to Xeriscaping, so let’s take a look at a few of them.
Some Advantages of Xeriscaping:
- Xeriscaping can reduce the need for supplemental irrigation.
A xeriscape can reduce or even eliminate the additional irrigation required for most landscapes with proper design. It can also help reduce the amount of runoff from your landscape after heavy rains. Native plants have adapted to the local climate and can handle all nature throws at them. While other people walk around a muddy mess, your landscape will look as good as new.
- It can save you money on your water bill.
Not only does Xeriscaping help conserve water (one of our most valuable natural resources), but it also saves you money (one of your most valuable resources). Less maintenance and watering plants mean more money in your pocket every month.
- Xeriscaping attracts wildlife.
Xeriscape landscaping is also great for the environment. This goes without saying, but we will say it anyway. Native wildlife like native plants. So, local wildlife is more likely to visit Xeriscape landscaping than traditional landscaping.
- Xeriscaping can even increase your property value.
Landscaping, in general, is a great way to increase your property’s value. After all, first impressions matter. Landscaping can make your home more attractive and inviting, potentially increasing its value. The only thing better than a landscaped yard is a xeriscaped yard. Just mention how much money you’re saving on your water bill!
Factors to consider when starting with Xeriscaping:
Although Xeriscaping can be easier than traditional landscaping, several factors still have to be considered.
- Selection of Plants
Choosing the best plants for Xeriscaping starts with knowing your landscape. Consider the amount of sun and shade in your landscape and the type of soil you have. These factors will help you choose drought-tolerant plants that require little water once established. Although with native plants, you have a better shot at choosing the right ones, it can still be a challenge. There are excellent resources available to help you choose the best plants for Xeriscaping. Better yet, have a professional help you. We know all the best strategies and plants to get the most out of your yard.
- Mulching
Mulching helps reduce evaporation, suppresses weeds, and helps conserve water. It also provides nutrients for the plants and helps to keep the root system cool in the summer months. There are many types of mulch available, so make sure you choose the best type for your Xeriscape landscape.
- Soil Preparation
Proper soil preparation is an essential step for Xeriscaping. The type of soil you have will determine what plants will thrive in your yard and how much water they will need. Xeriscaping in sandy soil will require different plants than Xeriscaping in clay soil. If you are unsure what type of soil you have, we can help you figure that out. We can even help “fix” your soil to give your new Xeriscaping the best opportunity to thrive.
- Irrigation
With certain soil types and plant selections, you may still need to water your yard occasionally. Installing an irrigation system is a great way to reduce the time you spend watering while ensuring all your new plants stay healthy. There are many irrigation systems available, so choose the best one for your landscape.
- Weed Control
Weeds are a Xeriscaper’s enemy. They compete with Xeriscape plants for water and nutrients, and they can quickly take over a Xeriscape landscape if left unchecked. Mulching is a great way to control weeds, but you may also need herbicides or weed killers. Read the labels carefully and follow the directions when using herbicide or weed killer.
Xeriscaping shows us that we don’t have to compete with nature. If you embrace it and use the right strategies, you can have a beautiful yard that’s easy to maintain and is excellent for the environment and your wallet.
