Gibson HomeBuilders

Today’s Topic is Landscaping to Conserve Water ( Xeriscape).

My guest today is Leon Campbell with the Native Shade Tree Farm located at 7351 FM 1886, Azle, Texas, Phone 817-444-2977.

“Xeriscape” Landscaping To Conserve Water

An adequate supply of high quality water has become a critical issue for the future prosperity of Texas. Booming populations have increased the demand on the state's already limited supply of high quality water. In addition, seasonal fluctuations in rainfall and periodic droughts have created a feast-to-famine cycle in Texas.
In urban areas of Texas about 25 percent of the water supply is used for landscape and garden watering. Much of this water is used to maintain traditionally high water-demanding landscapes, or it is simply applied inefficiently.
In an attempt to reduce the excessive water use, the Texas Agricultural Extension Service is educating Texans in Xeriscape landscaping, quality landscaping that conserves water and protects the environment. This concept is a first-of-a-kind, comprehensive approach to landscaping for water conservation. Traditional landscapes may incorporate one or two principles of water conservation, but they do not utilize the entire concept to reduce landscape water use effectively.
Xeriscape landscaping incorporates seven basic principles, which lead to saving water:
1. Planning and design
2. Soil analysis
3. Practical turf areas
4. Appropriate plant selection
5. Efficient irrigation
6. Use of mulches
7. Appropriate maintenance

By incorporating these seven principles, you can help preserve our most precious natural resource-water.
Xeriscape landscapes need not be cactus and rock gardens. They can be green, cool landscapes full of beautiful plants maintained with water-efficient practices. The same green Texas-style landscape which we are accustomed to can be achieved and still conserve water.

Start With a Plan
Creating a water-efficient landscape begins with a well-thought-out landscape design. Sketch your yard with locations of existing structures, trees, shrubs and grass areas. Then consider the landscape budget, appearance, function, maintenance and water requirements. Local landscape architects, designers, nurserymen and county Extension agents can help in this decision-making. Implementing your landscape design can be done gradually over several years.
Soil Analysis and Preparation
To increase plant health and conserve water, add organic matter to the soil of shrub and flowerbed areas. This increases the soil's ability to absorb and store water in a form available to the plant. As a rule-of-thumb, till in 4 to 6 inches of organic material such as shredded pine bark, peat and rice hulls. For trees, however, incorporating organic matter is not necessary; for large turf grass areas, it is not economically feasible.
Plant Selection
Select trees, shrubs and groundcovers based on their adaptability to your region's soil and climate. Texas is blessed with an abundance of beautiful native plants, which are naturally adapted to the region. Most have lower water demands, fewer pest problems and less fertilizer needs than many non-adapted, exotic plants brought into Texas landscapes.
Through the support of the nursery industry, native Texas plants are becoming more available in retail nurseries and garden centers. Combining Texas natives with well-adapted exotic plants is a key to a beautiful, interesting landscape, which conserves water. Check with your local nursery or county Extension agent for recommendations on adapted landscape plants for your area.
Grass Selection

When considering a landscape's water requirement, it is important to note that turf grasses require more frequent watering and maintenance than most other landscape plants. Carefully select grass according to its intended use, planting location and maintenance requirements.
St. Augustine grass and Bermuda grass are most often used for lawns in Texas. Zoysia grass, buffalo grass and centipede grass are used less often but offer much promise for landscape water conservation.
Grasses available for use in Texas lawns vary significantly in water requirements. Planting the lowest water use turf grass adapted to the region is an effective way to reduce landscape irrigation requirements.
Achieving a significant reduction in water consumption and landscape maintenance may also involve reducing the size of water-sensitive lawns through the use of patios, decks, shrub beds and groundcovers.
Also, when designing or evaluating turf grass areas in the landscape, consider the ease or difficulty in watering the proposed area. Long narrow areas and small odd-shaped areas are difficult for any irrigation equipment to efficiently water. Try to eliminate long, narrow areas and maintain blockier, square areas.

Landscape Maintenance
An added benefit of Xeriscape landscapes is less maintenance. A well-designed landscape can decrease maintenance by as much as 50 percent through reduced mowing; once-a-year mulching; elimination of weak, un-adapted plants; and more efficient watering techniques.
Watering
Of the tremendous amounts of water applied to lawns and gardens, much of it is never absorbed by the plants and put to use. Some water is lost to runoff by being applied too rapidly, and some water evaporates from exposed, un-mulched soil; but, the greatest waste of water is applying too much too often. In addition to over watering the plant, excess irrigation can leach nutrients deep into the soil away from plant roots, increasing the chances of polluting groundwater. Similarly, runoff caused by excess irrigation can carry polluting fertilizers and pesticides to streams and lakes. The waste or pollution of high quality water through inefficient irrigation practices can be eliminated through proper watering techniques.
Lawns

Most lawns receive twice as much water as they require for a healthy appearance. The key to watering lawns is to apply the water infrequently, yet thoroughly. This creates a deep, well-rooted lawn that efficiently uses water stored in the soil.
To know when to water the lawn, simply observe the grass. Wilting and discoloration are signs of water stress. At the first sign of wilting, you have 24 to 48 hours to water before serious injury occurs. Apply 1 inch of water to the lawn as rapidly as possible without runoff.
Watering only when needed and watering thoroughly produces a deep-rooted lawn, which is more water efficient and drought enduring.
Trees and Shrubs

All trees and shrubs need more frequent watering from planting time until becoming well rooted, which may take two growing seasons. Once established, plants can then be weaned to tolerate less frequent watering. Proper weaning develops deep roots and makes the plants more drought enduring.
As with lawns, water established trees, shrubs and groundcovers infrequently, yet thoroughly. In the absence of rain, most trees and shrubs benefit from a once-a-month thorough watering during the growing season. Remember, normal lawn watering is not a substitute for thorough tree and shrub watering.
The feeding root system of a tree or shrub is located within the top 12 inches of the soil and at the "drip line" of the plant. The drip line is the area directly below the outermost reaches of the branches. Apply water and fertilizer just inside and a little beyond the drip line, not at the trunk. Simply lay a slowly running hose on the ground and move it around the drip line as each area becomes saturated to a depth of 8 to 10 inches. For large trees, this watering technique may take several hours.
Irrigation Systems
The goal of any irrigation system is to give plants a sufficient amount of water without waste. By zoning an irrigation system, grass areas can be watered separately and more frequently than groundcovers, shrubs and trees. Both sprinkler and drip irrigation can be incorporated to achieve water conservation in the landscape.
Sprinkler Irrigation

Sprinkler irrigation is the most commonly used method of landscape watering. The two most common types of sprinkler irrigation systems are the hose-end sprinkler and the permanent underground system. Even though a permanent sprinkler system can be more water efficient than a hose-end sprinkler, both systems require little maintenance and apply large volumes of water in a short time.
If you have a permanent sprinkler system, make sure the sprinkler heads are adjusted properly to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways. Also, a properly adjusted sprinkler head sprays large droplets of water instead of a fog of fine mist, which is more susceptible to evaporation and wind drift.
With either hose-end sprinklers or permanent systems, water between late evening and mid-morning to avoid excessive waste through evaporation.
Drip Irrigation

Drip irrigation offers increased watering efficiency and plant performance when compared to sprinkler irrigation. In areas of the state with poor water quality (i.e., high salt content), drip irrigation also allows safer use of "salty water" in the landscape and garden.
Drip irrigation slowly applies water to soil. The water flows under low pressure through emitters, bubblers or spray heads placed at each plant. Water applied by drip irrigation has little chance of waste through evaporation or runoff.
Seeking professional irrigation advice and experimenting with available drip irrigation products in small sections of the landscape are the best ways to become familiar with the many benefits of this watering technique.
Mulching Conserves Moisture
Mulch is a layer of nonliving material covering the soil surface around plants. Mulches can be organic materials such as pine bark, compost and woodchips; or inorganic materials, such as lava rock, limestone or permeable plastic, not sheet plastic.
Use mulch wherever possible. Good mulch conserves water by significantly reducing moisture evaporation from the soil. Mulch also reduces weed populations, prevents soil compaction and keeps soil temperatures more moderate.
Proper Mowing and Fertilizing Conserves Water
Mowing grass at the proper height conserves water. Mow St. Augustine grass and buffalo grass at 3 inches; for Bermuda grass mow at 1 inch; for centipede grass and Zoysia grass mow at 2 inches.
Applying fertilizer to the lawn at the proper time and in the proper amount can save time, effort and money through reduced mowing and watering. Fertilizers also can be a major source of pollution of streams and groundwater if excessive amounts are applied.
Fertilize the lawn once in the spring and again in the fall to produce a beautiful turf without excess growth that demands frequent watering. Use a slow-release form of nitrogen in the spring application and a quick-release form in the fall. Apply only 1 pound of actual nitrogen fertilizer per 1,000 square feet of lawn at one time. By using this fertilizer schedule, no other fertilizer is needed to maintain most shrubs and trees in the lawn area.
Other Cultural Practices To Save Water
Other cultural practices that add to the efficient use of water by plants are periodic checks of the irrigation system, properly timed insect and disease control and elimination of water-demanding weeds.
Water Conservation Commitment
For each person in Texas, water must always be a vital concern. Water is a limited and fragile resource. Many people consider the water used to irrigate landscapes a luxury use of water. Nonessential use of water implies a special responsibility to efficiently use the resource and to protect its quality.
Water conservation in the landscape does not mean planting a harsh cactus and rock garden. It means common sense landscaping to protect water quality and quantity. It also means following the principles of water conservation to insure continued prosperity for the residents and businesses of Texas.
By following these guidelines and tips, you can proudly create your own Xeriscape landscape.
Xeriscape Landscaping
Xeriscape landscaping, quality landscaping that conserves water and protects the environment, is the most exciting concept to hit the landscape industry in decades. The term Xeriscape was coined in Denver, Colorado in 1978. Whether called Xeriscape, water-wise or water-smart landscaping, landscape and water industry professionals throughout the nation have embraced landscape water conservation through education.
Texas has more than 20 educational projects currently active. Demonstration gardens and tours, seminars, television programs and design contests are just a few of the methods used to make the Xeriscape concept familiar throughout Texas and the nation.
The seven principles of Xeriscape landscaping are not new; they have been practiced in the landscape industry for decades. The concept of combining all seven guidelines into one effort toward landscape water conservation is what makes Xeriscape landscaping unique.
Remember The Seven Principles
Plan Ahead - A good design is the backbone of any great Xeriscape. Begin planning with a scaled drawing of the lot, including buildings and walks. Identify sunny and shady areas, slopes and views. Next evaluate the needs of the people that will be using the landscape. Is a big area necessary for kids or pets, or is a large deck for entertaining most important? With this information in hand, develop your landscape plan, incorporating the other six principles. Group plants with similar water needs into zones to make watering easier. Once you have a plan, the landscape can be phased-in as money and time allow.
Improve the Soil - Test the soil for nutrient content by collecting a sample and sending it to a soil lab. Most Colorado soils benefit from adding two to three cubic yards of organic matter, such as commercial compost or aged manure, for every 1,000 square feet of landscape area. Good soil absorbs and retains water much better than poor soil. You will be rewarded with healthy grass and good plant growth which requires less water. Be aware that some native plants may not benefit from adding compost.

Irrigate Efficiently - Decide how you will water your landscape while it is being designed. Even the lowest water-using Xeriscape needs supplemental water during extended hot, dry periods. When designing an automatic system, select the irrigation method that will water the plants in each area most efficiently. For grass, low-volume, low-angle sprinklers irrigate the best. Drip, spray or bubbler emitters are most efficient for watering trees, shrubs, flowers and groundcovers. To meet seasonal needs and weather conditions, re-program the system regularly and install a rain shutoff device.
The most efficient hose-end sprinklers throw large drops of water, not a mist, close to the ground. Whether watering with an automatic system or manually, water deeply and infrequently to develop deep roots. Several short repeated watering cycles may be necessary to avoid runoff on hills or in clay soils. The best time to water is between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. to reduce water loss due to evaporation.

Limit Turf Areas - Replacing a portion of a lawn area with other attractive landscaping will decrease maintenance and water costs. Confine the lawn to high traffic areas and areas where it will be used. A typical home's landscaping is up to 90 percent Kentucky bluegrass lawn. Bluegrass requires 25 to 30 inches of water each growing season. Wildflowers and native grasses make excellent lawn substitutes, especially in large open spaces and low use areas.
Consider other alternatives to traditional turf areas. Shrubs, perennials and groundcovers use less water and provide a cool, green appearance in a landscape. Areas of mulch can be used around driveways or as paths. Areas used frequently, can be expanded by installing decks, patios, fireplaces and walkways to extend outdoor living areas.

Select Appropriate Plants - A wide selection of plants are suitable for a Xeriscape. Nurseries carry numerous trees, shrubs, perennials and ground covers, which are low water-using. Planting a variety of plants with different heights, colors and textures creates interest and beauty in the garden. Choose plants for their seasonal interest, including fall color and/or interesting berries, bark or seed heads. Most important, zone together plants with similar water and sunlight needs.

Use Mulch - Cover planting areas with 2 to 4 inches of mulch to help conserve soil moisture and control weeds. Mulch adds interest to the landscape too. Organic mulches, such as bark chips, shredded wood chips or pole peelings, decompose and improve soil texture but need to be restored from time to time. Inorganic mulches, such as gravel or crushed stone, should be used in limited, unplanted areas. Be aware that inorganic mulches can increase heat retention and reflect sun glare. Apply mulch directly to the soil surface or over a landscape fabric. Do not use black plastic; it prevents air and water from reaching plant roots.

Maintain It - Preserve the beauty of a Xeriscape with regular maintenance. Maintenance needs are similar initially to a traditional landscape, but decrease over time. A properly maintained yard is hardier and better able to withstand drought, freezing and pest problems.
Woody plants such as trees and shrubs should be checked for pruning needs once a year. Flowering perennial plants will need frequent pruning to stimulate blooming and, once they have gone dormant, to keep a neat appearance. Mowing is one of the most time-consuming maintenance tasks. Proper mowing heights can help lawns use less water. Mow the grass when it is about 1/3 higher than the desired height. Clippings can be left where they fall, recycling nutrients into the soil.