Xeriscape
You don't need to go as extreme as Xeriscaping. But the misconception of Xeriscape landscapes consisting of only succulents and a dry landscape is wrong. There is a wide variety of textures and unique plants that are appropriate in the Xeriscape design. Because it requires very little water, this type of landscaping has become popular. You can still have a lush feel in your yard. There are wonderful grasses that come in colors from purple, gold, red and green. There are also lots of architectural trees that bloom and make dramatic focal points. You don't need a carpet of plants to have a beautiful yard. By putting down a textured or colored ground cover such as DG, pebbles or rocks you can use less plants to save money and maintenance. It will serve as an interesting base for well placed plants. Strong architectural plants such as New Zealand Flax make a statement on its own. There are so many creative options and varieties of low-water-use plants.
As seen on channel 39 Consumer Bob's report
on waterwise landscaping
Drought tolerant and colorful plant choices
Interesting ground cover and textures keep this landscape from looking boring. There is no need to over plant. Save in plant material by adding stones.
www.waterwisesandiego.com
We specialize in drought tolerant native and drought tolerant plant designs.
June 2009 the city will be implementing mandatory water rationing. Now is the time to start planning strategies to cut your water usage. The investment you make now will insure you stay within the limits. Residential and commercial properties will be required to cut back by 20%. We import 90% of our water supply. It is crucial we all do our part to save this precious resource.
Design smart
Simple changes can yield dramatic results in your water bill and landscape. Bring the garden out front and center! Get rid of high maintenance and outdated lawns. The current trend is to bring curb appeal and color to front yards. Instead of being a pass through, it can be a show stopper! Native and drought tolerant plants can be flowering and come in many colors. The addition of irrigation and timers make this type of landscape virtually maintenance free. A front garden will save water, money and time. You can have your turf as long as it is in an area where it provides functional benefits. Place it away from your other plants, so it can be irrigated separately. Turf is best watered with sprinklers. Other plants can be efficiently watered with bubble emitters or drip systems. Most of us don't have large front yards we can actually use. It makes sense to do away with water thirsty lawns. It is better to have a front yard you can enjoy year round beauty. Drought-tolerant, native plants and grasses thrive in San Diego's semiarid climate. They are many to choose from. Think outside the lawn. You don't have to have a southwestern garden or barren landscape to save water. Planting natives is an environmentally smart and beautiful alternative with lots of flowering plants to choose from.
Successful water wise gardening
1. Plan and design
2. Soil analysis
3. Choose the low-water-use plants
4. Set aside lawns in practical areas
5. Irrigation and drip systems
6. Use mulches to cool the soil and minimize evaporation
7. Aerate the soil for maximum water absorption
8. Replace the lawn
9. Don't over water be aware of run off
10. Set your timers in the morning hours
11. Water deeply and infrequently
Visit our landscape page for native/drought plant list
Use mulch to control weeds, cool the soil and control erosion. Choose from organic wood, gravel or recycled products that are environmentally friendly.
Plant native California Poppy Full sun. Plant in early fall of spring 6-12" tall. Annual that will self seed. Drought tolerant
