Some Principles of Xeriscape

Xeriscape landscaping promotes water efficiency by using plants that are native and adaptable to Colorado's semi-arid climate. A well-designed Xeriscape can invite wildlife and pollinators, provide year-round interest, and save water.

Xeriscape/Coloradoscape at Denison Park in Denver near 11th Ave & Quebec St

Many native plants thrive in lean soils

• Soil Amendment

Most plants will benefit from the addition of organic material like compost though desert plants and plants native to lean soils may not need it. For these just loosening the soil before planting can sometimes be enough. Colorado has many different ecosystems so “Native” can mean many different growing conditions: semi arid gravelly plains, riparian areas, mountain slopes, etc. Know your plants’ needs.

• Efficient Irrigation

Once plants are established, water deeply and infrequently to help them develop deep roots. If watering by hand, avoid oscillating sprinklers that throw water high in the air or release a fine mist. When using automatic sprinkling systems, adjust the controller to accommodate weather conditions and install a rain sensor to shut off the device when it rains. To reduce evaporation, never water between 10 am and 6 pm. Zone turf areas separately from other plants.

The hot, sunny berm west of the Orangery at Denver Botanic Gardens features beautiful Opuntia (prickly pears) bred by local grower/hybridizer Kelly Grummons, along with penstemons, native primroses and many other cacti, succulents, and dryland plants.

• Plant Zones

Different areas in your yard receive different amounts of light, wind and moisture. To minimize water waste, group together plants with similar light and water requirements, and place them in an area that matches these requirements. Put high-water-use plants in low-lying drainage areas, near downspouts, or in the shade of other plants. Dry, sunny areas or areas far from a hose are great places for low-water-use plants that grow well in our climate.

Denver Water's Raingarden with curb cuts and rock mulch near 11th and Quebec

• Mulches

Mulch keeps plant roots cool, prevents soil from crusting, minimizes evaporation, and reduces weed growth. Organic wood mulches should be applied at least 4 inches deep. Because they decompose over time, they're an excellent choice for new beds. As plants mature and spread, they'll cover the mulched areas. But many native and xeric plants prefer inorganic gravel mulches, which should be applied at least 2 inches deep. They rarely need to be replaced and work well in windy spots.

The Laura Smith Porter Plains Garden at DBG demonstrates a native prairie in late May, including blooming Blue flax (Linum lewisii), Blue Grama Grass (Bouteloua gracilis), Buffalo Grass (Buchloe dactyloides), other mixed-grasses and other wildflowers. Photos: Idelle Fisher

• Turf Alternatives

Traditional Kentucky bluegrass is lush and hardy, but requires a substantial amount of water. Allowing it to go dormant (turn brown) in the heat of July will save water without killing it. Reduce the size of your lawn area to also save water. Native or low-water-use plants, patios, decks or mulches can beautify your landscape while saving water. Try planting buffalo grass, blue grama grass, turf-type tall fescue and fine fescues.