We all know that water conservation is important, especially during times of drought. But did you know that you can also conserve water by landscaping your yard in a drought-tolerant way? Here are 5 fast facts about drought-tolerant landscaping:
Fact #1: Drought-tolerant Landscaping Is Also Known As Xeriscaping
Drought-tolerant landscaping is often referred to as Xeriscaping. Xeriscaping comes from the Greek word “xeros” which means dry. So Xeriscaping is basically the art of landscaping using plants and techniques that require little or no irrigation water once they are established.
Xeriscaping was developed in the early 1980s as a response to the growing water crisis in the American Southwest. It has since become popular throughout the US and Canada as people have become more concerned about conserving our precious water resources.
Fact #2: It Helps You Save Up To 50% On Your Watering Needs
Drought-tolerant landscaping is designed to conserve water by using plants that are adapted to survive in dry conditions. These plants typically have deep roots that can reach underground water sources, and they often have small leaves that lose less water through transpiration. By using drought-tolerant plants in your landscape, you can save up to 50% on your watering needs.
There are a number of drought-tolerant plants for you to choose from. You can pick plants that have low water needs or that can survive in dry conditions. Some popular drought-tolerant plants include succulents, cacti, California natives, and herbs.
When planning your drought-tolerant garden, be sure to use plants that will grow well in your climate and soil type. Group plants together by their water needs so you can water them efficiently. Mulch around plants to help keep the soil moist and block out the sun so the roots stay cool. Be sure to water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Fact #3: Drought-tolerant Plants Have Built-in Features To Minimize Water Loss And Maximize Water Uptake
Drought-tolerant plants have features that allow them to survive in dry environments. For example, these plants may have deep roots that can reach water sources underground, or they may have a waxy surface that helps minimize water loss. Additionally, drought-tolerant plants often have a low growth habit, which means they don’t need as much water as other types of plants.
Drought-tolerant plants also tend to be slower growing, which means they won’t need as much water over the course of a season. Additionally, choosing plants that are native to your area can help minimize water usage, as these plants are already adapted to the local climate.
Fact #4: Some Drought-tolerant Plants Can Be Trained To Use Less Water
There are a number of drought-tolerant plants that can be easily trained to use less water, including California natives, succulents, and perennials. If you are looking for a low-maintenance landscape that will still look great in times of drought, be sure to consider plants that are known for their drought tolerance.
But it would be well to keep in mind that while it is possible to train some drought-tolerant plants to use less water, this is not always the case. Some plants may be more drought tolerant than others, but there is no guarantee that they will all respond well to training. It is important to research the specific types of plants you are considering using in your drought-tolerant landscape and to make sure you are comfortable with their water needs before investing in them.
One of the ways to train drought-tolerant plants to use less water is to install a rain barrel. A rain barrel is a container that collects and stores rainwater from your roof. This collected water can then be used to water your plants, saving you money on your water bill.
Another way to reduce the amount of water your drought-tolerant plants need is by mulching them. Mulching helps to retain soil moisture, which means you won’t have to water as often. You can either use organic mulch, such as straw, or inorganic mulch, like rocks or gravel.
Fact #5: Drought-tolerant Landscaping Improve The Community
Drought-tolerant landscaping is important for the community because it helps conserve resources, reduce water usage, and minimize the negative impacts of drought. By implementing drought-tolerant landscaping practices, communities can improve their overall water efficiency and protect their natural resources. Additionally, drought-tolerant landscapes often look more attractive and can be more functional than traditional landscapes, which can also benefit the community.
By incorporating plants that naturally thrive in dry conditions, homeowners can reduce their outdoor water usage by 50% or more. Communities that adopt drought-tolerant landscaping can lower water usage across an entire neighborhood or city block, helping to conserve this valuable resource.
So, if you’re looking to save on your water bill and help out the environment, drought-tolerant landscaping might be the way to go. And it doesn’t have to be difficult – our experts can help you get started with little effort on your part. Give us a call today and let us show you how easy it is to make this change for your home or business!
Are You Considering Drought Tolerant Landscaping For Your Front Yard Or Backyard?
At DPG Design and Build, we’ve been providing our customers with specialized Landscape and Hardscape Design and Build services for over 30 years. DPG Design and Build, headquartered in Danville and Walnut Creek, California is the best curb appeal and outdoor living space designer and installer in the San Francisco Bay Area. Appearing on HGTV’s Curb Appeal and featured on Discovery Channel’s program Renovation Nation, our team of skilled designers and landscape engineers provides top-quality service and professionalism our customers love. DPG Design and Build offers 2-D and 3-D conceptual home and landscape design plans that allow you to visualize your dream space and make that dream concept a reality. If you are considering Drought Tolerant Landscaping that covers the entirety of your yard contact DPG Design and Build to schedule your free consultation today!