Xeriscape

(CC) Image: Jerry Friedman
New Mexico Xeriscape landscape and garden.

History

The term Xeriscape was created by the Denver Water Department in 1981 to help promote water wise gardening. The name Xeriscape is trademarked by the DWD.

Implementation

Xeriscaping uses environmentally appropriate plants to help maximize natural resources. Gardeners use a zonal approach to gardening called hydrozoning. The zones are broken down into:

Oasis zones are usually close to the house to benefit from rain runoff or the protection of shade.

Transition zones combine drier areas with those needing low or moderate moisture.

Arid zones would be farthest from the house and in low-traffic areas; often these areas are natural habitat or planted with native or drought-tolerant specimens.

Drainage and Mulch

Other considerations when planning a Xeriscape garden include drainage and mulch.