Xeriscaping

Landscape Management Practices

Xeriscaping encompasses a range of landscape management practices selectively adopted to conserve water. The precise selection of particular combinations of landscape elements and management practices is adapted to local and site conditions but typically integrates soil management, composting, mulching, and the planting of drought-tolerant plants with deep root systems. Xeriscaping practices vary by region depending on climate, native vegetation, soil types, land use, and other environmental factors. Landscape plans are typically developed to suit particular characteristics of a residential yard, such as soil types, exposure, slope, and grade, in order to maximize water retention. Xeriscaping often requires conversion of an existing turfgrass lawn to new ground covers that typically include native and drought-resistant grasses, shrubs, trees, and nonliving surfaces. Mulches are often used to retain water and control weeds. Retention of areas of turfgrass is compatible with xeriscaping principals if located in appropriate water-use zones. Those who adopt xeriscaping often integrate personal aesthetic preferences into landscape design. Xeriscaping advocates often emphasize [Page 3144]the individuality of landscape design that can be incorporated into landscape plans, in contrast to the relatively uniform conventional lawn.

Funded in part by a grant from the Arizona Department of Water Resources, the Tempe Women's Club Park was converted to a Xeriscape Demonstration Garden in 1995 to promote low-water-use plants and desert landscaping practices.

Source: Richard Bond, City of Tempe Water Conservation Program.

Other Environmental Benefits

Although the term suggests management for reduced water consumption, xeriscaping is commonly associated with a range of environmental objectives that residents seek to realize through their landscape choices. Due to health concerns, especially for children and pets, eliminating or reducing applications of chemical pesticides has been highlighted as a benefit of xeriscaping. Regional environmental impacts of landscaping choices are also highlighted by xeriscaping proponents. For example, in coastal Florida, environmental scientists believe that the incorporation of native vegetation into residential landscaping practices will reduce the impact of nonpoint source pollution on coastal ecosystems. However, additional environmental amenities, such as the restoration of wildlife habitat and increased urban biodiversity, can be problematic for residents who fear that wildlife may interfere with their enjoyment of their yards.

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