Xeriscaping

Perfect for the prairies

I was impressed with the Garden-ideas of Xeriscaping - Landscaping with drought resistant plants and materials that are well adapted to our local area is often the best water conservation strategy. While visiting the Cypress Hills area and the Town of Maple Creek, Saskatchewan.



It is important to have a variety of trees and shrubs for color and texture. I love the look of the red and burgundy leaves contrasting against the grey stone. Smartscaped with different colored gravel and large rocks adds visual interest to this frontyard.

Hydrozoning, grouping plants with similar watering requirements together is quite necessary. Plants that require more water (for example, vegetables, fruits, and certain flowers) are grouped together. These less water-efficient plants may also be sheltered from the wind and/or sun by planting them in the shade (under trees, beside a house etc.) to decrease the amount of water they need.

Xeriscaping does not mean no flowers ~ Compact flowerbeds full of brightly colored perennials and annuals make better use of space and water. Bird feeders and houses will attract birds for year-round enjoyment.

A lush green landscape can still be attained by appropriate choice and arrangement of trees and shrubs with dark green leaves. Junipers and evergreens will also provide winter color.

Newly planted trees were being saved from the stress of being transplanted with the use of these water buckets