Landscape Water Conservation... Xeriscape TM

Douglas F. Welsh, Extension Horticulturist
William C. Welch, Extension Landscape Horticulturist
Richard L. Duble, Extension Turfgrass Specialist (retired)
Texas Agricultural Extension Service
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:

Planning and design
Soil analysis
Practical turf areas
Appropriate plant selection
Efficient irrigation
Use of mulches
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.

Xeriscape and the Xeriscape logo are trademarks of the Denver Water Department.