We're back with a little more on a certain type of specialty gardens: xeriscape gardens. We covered xeriscape gardens more generally in our previous post under environmental gardens, but it's unique design calls for more attention to be given to it.
Just to reiterate what these gardens are all about, xeriscape gardens seek to minimize the amount of water used while retaining a beautiful, unique garden. Even though the plants of such gardens need less in the way of moisture, they still require careful planning in their placement and a caring hand to help them continue to grow.
Xeriscape gardens are increasingly an attractive choice of garden in places where droughts are common or imminent, such as in the American Southwest and, currently, California. You can, however, implement them anywhere, either out of a desire for plants that need less water or for love of the look of the plants.
When planning your xeriscape garden, observe where there may be areas that may be hard to water and maintain. Some examples of these problem places are steep hills, narrow pieces of lawn, rocky spots and spots that tend to be dry. Especially on hills, watering can be a problem, as it may become runoff and be wasted instead of watering your plants. You may try drip irrigation to normalize the water level through long, slow administration. You could also use ground covers to help out these areas.
Also consider where the high traffic areas will be. For those places, use a high tolerance grass like bluegrass. If there are spots that tend to be drier, you may try using buffalo grass, which cannot stand as much wear but can survive with less water. Alternatively, problem spots could be converted into paths with stepping stones or flagstones.
Low traffic areas can be converted into shrub borders, flower gardens, or ground covers, which can really balance out your garden and bring a greater sense of liveliness to it. If the spots are shady, look into shade-tolerant grasses that can thrive despite the lack of sunlight.
Have some rocky spots? Don't worry, these don't have to be ugly and barren, as there are certain plants, like bluebell and cranesbill, that can grow successfully in such an environment. On the other hand, you could opt for using raised beds and avoid the issue entirely.
Again, the most important thing here is to select the right plants. These should be, preferably, both native to the area and drought-tolerant. Also, group plants by their respective needs for water to ensure they get the proper amount.
There are many styles of xeriscape gardens from regions across the world. If the Southwest isn't doing it for you, try a Mediterranean type garden, or another kind from a dry area.
If you want more information on xeriscape gardens, read an article about them here.
Image by Mark F. Levisay
