Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping is garden and open-space design built to use as little water as possible. The name comes from the Greek root for “dry”, but the goal is not a barren, desert-like garden. The aim is a landscape that is green and still saves water, through good plant choice, sensible layout and efficient irrigation.

Principles of xeriscaping

The approach rests on a few key decisions. Drought-tolerant plants suited to the local climate are favoured; Mediterranean plants such as lavender, rosemary and sage, along with ornamental grasses, are common. Plants are grouped by water need. Lawn is limited to the areas people actually use. Soil is improved with organic matter, and the surface is covered with mulch such as gravel or bark to cut evaporation. Where irrigation is needed, it is done by drip at the right time of day. Once established, a well-made xeriscape needs little maintenance.

Xeriscaping in visualization

Rendering these gardens relies on variety of texture and colour: grey and silver foliage, the fine blades of grasses, gravel and stone. Plant groups placed with a natural irregularity, lit by soft low evening sun, show this kind of landscape at its best.