Greenscaping
 Greenscaping is the creation of a
garden that uses less water than traditional landscaping. You can
do this by choosing plants that are drought tolerant and by using
techniques that use water efficiently. Taking these steps will
reduce your outdoor water use by creating a colorful, natural,
yard or garden that is easier and cheaper to maintain.
Seven Steps to a Water-Saving Garden
- Planning & Design - Consider soil and light conditions,
drainage, which existing plants you plan to keep, maintenance
level desired, plant and color preferences and your budget.
- Soil Improvements - Mix compost or peat moss into the soil
before planting to help the soil retain water. If your yard is
sloped, reduce water run-off with terraces and retaining walls.
- Minimize Lawn Areas - Limit the amount of area devoted to
grass. Plant groundcovers or add hard surface areas like patios,
decks or walkways. When replanting lawn areas, use drought
tolerant grass seed mixes.
- Plant Selection - Choose from among the many types of
low-water-using trees, shrubs, flowers and groundcovers. Many
need watering only in the first year after planting.
- Efficient Irrigation - Install drip or trickle irrigation
systems for those areas that need watering. These systems use
water efficiently and are available from garden centers.
- Effective Use of Mulches - Use mulches like pine needles,
shredded bark, or leaves in a layer 3 inches deep. This keeps
soil moist, smothers weeds and prevents erosion.
- Regular Maintenance - Properly timed pruning, fertilizing.
pest control and weeding will preserve your landscape's beauty
and water efficiency.
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