Out
On A Limb / December 2006
X Marks the Garden
Over twenty five years ago, the city of Denver came up with a new concept and a new word to help fight the landscaping devastation of a serious drought. Trying to promote a landscaping philosophy in tune with the time and the climate they combined landscape” and the Greek word “xeros”, meaning “dry, for xeriscaping. The innovative utility company then developed seven principles for their idea: planning and design, limiting turf areas, selecting and zoning plants appropriately, improving the soil, using mulches, irrigating efficiently and doing appropriate maintenance.
Originally targeted for commercial and public properties, homeowners became the most enthusiastic fans of xeriscaping. Xeriscaped gardens are marked by large patios, recirculating water features and perennial plant beds. Homeowners spend a little more money up front, but get it back in the long run with savings on water and maintenance. They also can spend more of their time, money and energy on interesting outdoor décor and plants than on plain lawn care. Drought-tolerant plantings translate into variety, not lack of color or green space.
Homeowners say it makes landscaping a lot more fun. By reducing 5,000-square feet of grass down to 1,000 square feet of grass, they can use the freed-up space for outdoor family rooms, fire pits and perennial garden beds. Water usage goes way down while the lawn remains lush, plush and green during warmer months and still looks welcoming during cold months. The family can enjoy it all even more.
Economically, environmentally and aesthetically, xeriscaping is good gardening, not just for long hot summers, but all year round.
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