What is Xeriscaping? A Homeowner's Guide to Saving Water and Money

Today, I want to talk about a landscaping concept that’s been a game-changer for me and is becoming increasingly popular across the country: xeriscaping. Now, don't let the fancy name intimidate you. At its core, xeriscaping is all about creating a beautiful, sustainable, and low-maintenance landscape that conserves water. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to save a little money on their water bill?

As a homeowner, you're not just maintaining a property or remodeling a home exterior; you're cultivating a space for you and your family to enjoy. A big part of that is your yard. But depending on where you live, keeping that classic green lawn can be a constant battle against Mother Nature, and a costly one at that.

That’s where the beauty of xeriscaping comes in. It’s a smart, practical approach that works with your local environment, not against it, all while being an eye catching point of your exterior house design.

A xeriscaped home can be a beautiful way to decrease the amount of maintenance you have to do on your yard.

What Exactly is Xeriscaping?

The term "xeriscape" comes from the Greek word xeros, meaning dry. But this doesn't mean your yard has to be a barren desert of rocks and cacti (unless that's your thing!). It's an exterior house design philosophy based on seven key principles:

1. Planning and Design: A good plan is the foundation of any successful project. This involves mapping out your yard, understanding its sunny and shady spots, and deciding how you want to use the space.

2. Soil Improvement: Healthy soil is crucial. By adding organic matter, you can improve your soil's ability to absorb and retain water, which is a big win for your plants.

3. Efficient Irrigation: This is where you can see some serious water savings. Using drip irrigation or soaker hoses delivers water directly to the base of your plants, minimizing evaporation.

4. Appropriate Plant Selection: This is the fun part! It involves choosing plants that are naturally suited to your climate. Think native plants that are already adapted to your area's rainfall and temperature.

5. Mulching: A layer of mulch around your plants helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil cool.

6. Limiting Turf Areas: You don't have to get rid of your lawn entirely, but reducing its size can significantly cut down on water use. You can replace unused lawn areas with attractive, low-water alternatives.

7. Maintenance: Xeriscaping is low-maintenance, not no-maintenance. A little bit of weeding, pruning, and adjusting your irrigation system will keep your landscape looking its best.

Why Should You Consider It?

Beyond the satisfaction of having a great-looking yard, there are some very practical benefits to adopting a water-wise landscape.

For starters, the financial incentive is significant. In some parts of the country, outdoor irrigation can account for as much as 60% of total household water use. A well-designed xeriscape can reduce that outdoor water consumption by 50-75%. Think about what that could do for your monthly budget.

Then there's the environmental impact. With many regions facing recurring drought conditions, conserving water is more important than ever. By choosing native and drought-tolerant plants, you’re not only saving water but also creating a habitat for local wildlife like birds and butterflies.

And let's not forget about your property value. A thoughtfully landscaped yard can increase the perceived value of your home by 5-11%. A beautiful, low-maintenance, and water-wise landscape is a major selling point for potential buyers who are looking for a home that is both attractive and efficient.

Getting Started

Embarking on a xeriscaping project can be a rewarding experience in home exterior remodeling. You can start small, perhaps with a single flower bed, and expand over time. The key is to do your research and choose the right plants for your specific location.

As homeowners, we have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact, starting with our own yards. By embracing practices like xeriscaping, we can create beautiful, sustainable landscapes that not only enhance our homes but also contribute to a healthier planet. We at Homeowners United are here to help you on that journey to protect, renovate, and elevate your home.