Landscaping Your Lawn

Tired of spending a lot of money watering your lawn? Do you feel no matter how much you water your grass, it still looks brown and crispy? Maybe it's time to rethink your lawn. Here are some ideas for implementing a technique known as Xericscaping - a way to garden that requires little water and energy to maintain:

• Test your soil. When necessary, add organic matter to your soil if it is performing poorly. You can take compost from your own pile or purchase organic compost and/or fertilizer from a local nursery or garden store.
• Group plants by watering requirements. Place high-need plants in areas that naturally receive more water from rain or the sprinkler, or where you can hand-water easily and conveniently.
• Plant native species. These varieties are more accustomed to the weather and soil conditions in the area which you live, will have a better chance of thriving, and won't require extra water as those imported from other areas.
• Reduce grass space. Grass tends to require a lot of water, so limit grass areas and plant varieties of flowers, shrubs, bushes, and plants that require minimal amounts of water.
• Mulch, mulch, mulch! Spread plant beds with grass shavings from the mower and fallen leaves to help retain as much moisture as possible.

The benefits of Xeriscaping include:

• Avoiding use of pesticides, fertilizers, and chemicals
• Improves the value of your property by offsetting costs of expensive landscaping
• Saves water
• Provides a natural habitat for local wildlife
• Reduces pollution of soil, air, and water

For more information on Xeriscaping, visit the Landscape Design Site.
Less maintenance and time invested is necessary