Living Green on the Front Range
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I Want to Xeriscape But I Don't Want a Rock Lawn |
| Posted by Administrator (admin) on Feb 01 2008 at 10:52 AM |
| Living Green on the Front Range >> Green Homes and Green Building |
by Bill Combs, landadesignstudio.com
Based on the combination of the Greek word xeros meaning dry and scape from landscape, Xeriscape seeks to provide beautiful and aesthetically pleasing spaces to enjoy, relax and revel. To have a successful Xeriscape experience it is necessary to understand its seven guiding principles:
1. Plan. As with anything a good plan goes far in achieving the desired result. What do you like? Where are the high use areas? Where is the sun? Where is the shade? Can I plan seating areas away from the structure? Do I want to provide wildlife habitat? What texture, color and form do I want? Will it complement the architectural style of my project? Keep a notebook with your ideas. Talk with your landscape architect or designer.
2. Know your soil. The soils in Northern Colorado are notorious for their need for amendment through the addition of organic matter. Take a sample to your nursery for evaluation and suggestion. Mulch when you mow. This simple step will keep the equivalent of fifteen to twenty bales of yard waste from entering the landfill while providing free mulch and nutrients to your lawn and help retain the water you do need to apply.
3. Create manageable/practical turf panels. There’s a reason they call it Kentucky Blue Grass. It belongs in Kentucky. While formally very pleasing, reducing the size of these panels can significantly reduce water demand. Border areas are typically very capable of conversion to a more native palette and the juxtaposition of the textures often results in an even more dramatic effect.
4. Know your plants. There are an amazing number of plants that qualify as xeric. Colorado State University Extension Service has introduced a number of plants through their Plant Select program and continues to do so every year. Visit the City’s Xeriscape Demonstration Garden at 300 LaPorte Ave. The Natural Resources Department also has plant lists and free native seed.
5. Water Wisely. Understand your irrigation patterns. Many of us just turn the irrigation system on in April, off in October. By understanding the differing needs at differing times of the year water consumption can be reduced significantly. Make the adjustment in your program on the first of the month. In your planning and design stage consider which zones might be capable of conversion from a spray system to a drip system.
6. Mulch Your Beds. A simple application of three inches of mulch reduces water need, helps with weed control and over time decomposes, amending the soil. Select a color and composition which complements your overall plan and design.
7. Maintain the Magic. You’ve worked hard to plan, design and implement and as with all landscape projects maintenance is the key to their continued success. Weeding, pruning and proper mowing are essential.
Keeping the above principles in mind everyone is capable of being water wise, which is really what Xeriscape is all about. Responsible water and beautiful place. And while you may end up with a little rock, Xeriscape is capable of far more.