Xeriscape: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Frequently Asked Questions
What is Xeriscape?
Xeriscape is a word derived from the combination of a Greek word "Xeros"
meaning dry and "scape" from the word "landscape." It's used to describe
landscaping with water conservation as a major objective. Our definition of
Xeriscape is "an attractive, sustainable landscape that conserves water and is
based on sound horticultural practices."
How does Xeriscaping differ from conventional landscaping?
Xeriscaping is a method of landscaping, not a style of landscaping. It differs
from conventional landscaping primarily in the way irrigation water is used in
the landscape. By grouping plants with similar water needs together into
watering zones, each plant receives the amount of water it needs to be healthy -
not too much and not too little. This is the basic hydrozone concept. If plants
native to this area are used extensively, the water savings will be greater. Many
conventional landscapes are based on the assumption that enough rain will fall
over the entire landscape to meet the needs of high water-use plants that are not
suited to this area. Xeriscape restricts these higher water-use plants, including
bluegrass, to areas where it will serve a purpose.
What sort of plants should I use?
Not all plants need the same amount of water. This is the
basic hydrozone concept. Further, plants should be chosen by their adaptability
to the site and their ultimate size, color and texture. Virtually all plants have a
place in Xeriscape as long as they are grouped and irrigated with plants that
have similar water needs.
The Xeriscapes I have seen are rocks with cactus and yucca. Is this it?
No. A well-designed Xeriscape is attractive, water efficient and requires less
maintenance compared to traditional landscapes that are largely bluegrass.
Xeriscape does not require a change in lifestyle and can, in fact,
include Kentucky Bluegrass.
But I thought all I had to do was get a few “dry” plants and put them in.
Plant selection is only one of the seven principles of xeriscape. Yes, if you
plant more “dry” plants, your landscape will require less water. All of the
principles of Xeriscape are also a part of any good conventional landscape.
How much water will I save?
How much water you can save depends on your previous water use habits in
your landscape. A 25 percent to 50 percent savings in outdoor water use is a
reasonable expectation.

2. What about cost?
There is not that much difference between Xeriscape and a good conventional
landscape. The initial costs for Xeriscape will probably be slightly higher,
primarily due to the higher cost of plant materials. The savings in irrigation and
maintenance makes it very cost-effective after the first few years.
How do I get started?
Start with a good plan and do it in stages. Visit the How to Xeriscape section of
our site for more details. Your Xeriscape doesn't have to be completed all at
once. In fact, most landscapes evolve over a period of years. The information
provided on our site is designed to introduce you to the concept of Xeriscape.