Whether you want to save money, go green or just hate dealing with sprinklers, xeriscaping is an excellent choice for low-water gardening. “Xeriscaping” is a landscaping method that requires little to no irrigation to thrive. They’re easy to maintain and look stunning. In just a few easy steps, you can be well on your way to your xeriscape design.

Finding Inspiration
The term “xeriscaping” usually describes landscapes of cacti and succulents, but think outside the box. If your plantings will thrive with minimal irrigation, it counts!

Rock gardens, Zen gardens, contemporary design or cottage-style gardens with native plantings are all ideal candidates for a xeriscape. Herbs like lavender and many types of meadow flowers do well in low-water beds. You can even maintain a “lawn” look using low-water alternatives like clover or creeping groundcover. Once you start to browse low-water garden plans, you’ll be amazed with how lush and refined they can look.

Picking Plants
Native plants or plants from a climate similar to yours are the easiest choices for a xeriscape. These plants evolved to thrive with the amount of rain your area gets. Many native plants or their tamed, hybridized relatives are gorgeous yet oft-overlooked landscaping choices.

You can shop outside your native climate as well, but be careful. Plants labeled “drought-tolerant” at the nursery may still require regular irrigation. Research any plant before buying it, and browse lists of low-water plants for ideas.

Choosing Mulch
Mulch is a crucial element of any xeriscape plan. By shading the soil surface, it prevents evaporation and keeps more water in the soil. It’s also a fantastic weed deterrent and even a design tool. The type of mulch you choose helps set the tone for your design.

Gravel mulch looks formal and rarely needs to be replaced, but it’s not as water-saving as wood mulch. Wood mulches are more relaxed and add nutrients to the soil, but they do need to be replenished every few years. “Live” mulch created with groundcover plants gives the most natural look and helps prevent soil erosion on slops, but it needs to be tamed every now and then.

Xeriscaping is a versatile method that can be used in key areas or for your whole yard. You’ll be amazed how much time and money you save with a low-water, low-maintenance planting.