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Xeriscaping (Planting to Use Less Water) Terry L. Yockey |
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Many assume that Minnesota, "the land of 10,000 lakes," is inundated with bountiful rainfall. Unfortunately, that isn't generally true. Most lawns and gardens need at least an inch of water every week and there are usually periods where we don't receive adequate rainfall to meet their moisture requirements.
Xeriscaping is one way to cut down on water usage while still having a beautiful low-maintenance yard and garden. (Xeros is the Greek work for "dry"). You don't have to make your entire area drought-resistant, but if you place all your thirsty plants in one section, you will concentrate your watering needs and save time as well as water. Another good way to cut down on watering is to reduce the size of your lawn. You can either plant more drought-tolerant groundcovers or increase the size of your hardscapes such as patios and decks. When beginning any new landscaping or gardening project start with a soil test. Your local extension office will give you a bag to collect soil samples and for a very modest fee you will get an analysis which will tell you exactly which amendments your particular soil needs. Good, rich, organic soil is fundamental in retaining moisture and making your garden more drought-resistant. Heavy clay will hold moisture but most plants will do poorly due to lack of oxygen to their roots. Sandy soil has very poor water-holding capacity and is usually very low in minerals. Both need to be amended with compost, manure or peat moss, before you can plant your garden. Mulching is also an important part of xeriscaping. It not only helps retain moisture, but keeps weed seeds from sprouting and using valuable water. I use my own compost around all my plants because it adds to the overall structure as it shades the soil. You can also buy packaged mulches at the garden center--although I don't recommend using peat moss as mulch because it tends to cake and shed water. Rock gardens can be an attractive way to xeriscape. Most rock garden plants are accustomed to dry, windy places and perform well in less then perfect situations. Rock gardens take a little more time and thought to do well, but are worth the extra effort when you do get it right. There are many flowering perennials that are drought resistant. One way to tell if a plant is a good choice for your xeriscape is the color of its foliage. Plants with a silvery foliage such as many of the herbs, are almost always drought-tolerant. Some examples of these are the artemisias, catmint, and perovskia (Russian Sage). Other perennials that can also be included in your xeriscape are: Sunny Spots .
Shadier Spots
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