Do you know one of the biggest pet peeves of most agricultural agents I know? Watching irrigation systems run while it’s actively raining outside. Only 0.3% of water on Earth is suitable for human use, and the U.S. uses over 407 million gallons of water per day. In Georgia, residents use an estimated 51-75 gallons of water per person each day. Of this, roughly 30% is used outdoors.
Building a water-efficient landscape or using xeriscaping techniques can not only save water, but save time and effort by requiring less care than many traditional landscapes do. The term “xeriscape” was established in 1981 by combining “landscape” and the Greek prefix “xero”, meaning dry. A landscape designed with Xeriscape principles in mind can use up to 50-60% less water than a traditionally designed counterpart.
The first principle or step of Xeriscape is proper design and placement of plants. When planning a landscape, consider differences in soil texture, length of sunlight, and plant water needs. Group your plants into three water-use zones. High water use zones are small, highly visible areas that are watered as needed, and should make up less than 10% of the landscape. Moderate water use areas are watered only when plants show signs of drought stress, and should account for 30% or less of the landscape. Low water-use zones are only watered at plant establishment and receive the rest of their moisture from Mother Nature – they should make up 60% or more of the landscape. Also consider things like slopes, swales, elevations, and microclimates in your planning phase.
The second Xeriscaping principle is one that I discuss often- take soil tests and make the necessary amendments to soil pH, fertility, and texture. Plants are living things that need proper nutrition and growing conditions in order to thrive!
The third principle is appropriate plant selection. Xeriscapes require that we select plants that are well-adapted for our local conditions. Sometimes this means prioritizing native plants, but not always. Be sure to consider the amount of sun exposure, light intensity, wind, average summer and winter temperatures, and soil type and drainage. Matching a plant to our soil and climates will ensure it’s survival in an Xeriscape over a poorly selected one.
Step four is to minimize the amount of turfgrass area in your yard. While turf has some great benefits, it requires much more maintenance (mowing) and supplemental irrigation to keep it attractive through our summers. If possible, use a drought-tolerant turf variety like Bermudagrass, and limit the amount of turf in your landscape.
Next is to use efficient irrigation. An irrigation system needs to be carefully designed and installed according to your water-use zones and overall landscape design. Many landscapes benefit from the use of drip irrigation for ornamental trees, shrubs, and flowers, which can use 30-50% less water than sprinklers and reduces the risk of foliar diseases. Additionally, be sure to time your irrigation for first thing in the morning, and don’t irrigate during periods of sufficient rainfall!
Xeriscape principle six is to use mulch in the landscape to help prevent water loss, reduce weed competition, moderate soil temperatures, and prevent erosion. Organic mulches are best – we do not recommend plastic mulch.
Finally, Xeriscape principle seven is to maintain your landscape as needed. Xeriscapes are low maintenance, but do still require some water, some fertilizer, some pruning, and general care to ensure plant health and longevity.
If you need recommendations for transitioning your traditional landscape to a Xeriscape, please let us know at rlstew2@uga.edu or 706-359-3233.
