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Drought Tolerant Landscapes
Writer, editor, entrepreneur, consultant and hobby farmer...I am a passionate gardener and happiest developing and writing about our 17 acre farm, Seven Oaks. I specialize in herbs and herbal remedies.
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Drought tolerant landscape utilize the concept of xeriscaping, or landscaping uses water-conserving techniques. Xeriscaping focuses on plant choices suited to the native climate, using water conservation methods such as mulch. Xeriscaping also calls for homeowners to minimize water-guzzling lawns and use the natural terrain as part of the garden design. As you can see from these photos, many natural elements such as stone and wood blend seamlessly to form elegant minimalist landscapes. These landscapes are easy to care for an provide a modern counterpoint to many home styles.
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Landscape design using the seven principles of xeriscape gardening makes sense, especially in the south, southwest and other areas typically hit by droughts. Use of natural plants and stones adds beautiful shades of gray and green to the garden without costly watering.
Xeriscape gardens incorporate appropriate plant material, such as this ornamental grass, that thrives under harsh conditions.
| Mulching remains a core principle of xeriscaping. A four inch layer of mulch retains moisture and provides optimal soil conditions in the garden. |
Xeriscaping doesn't have to be plain or boring. This beautiful outdoor room features areas for quiet contemplation amidst natural elements such as stones, wood materials and plants.
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No matter where you live, designing a garden to use minimal water makes sense. Many plants such as this cactus thrive in desert environments.
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This backyard oasis contains many xeriscaping elements. The use of wide stone floored spaces and rocks as decorative elements adds dramatic flourishes without plants that drink a lot of water.
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Zen-like charm creates an overall feel of simplicity and serenity in this drought tolerand landscape. Bamboo is a tough plant that thrives in most any condition. Rocks add a great protective layer, allowing moisture to penetrate the soil but decreasing the amount of evaporation.
A clean, modern look exemplifies this border. Native plants like these use less water than other plants, and the thick mulch at their base prevents water evaporation and loss. Dramatic lights along the concrete path highlight the plants and create stunning shadows at night.
Ideabook updated on Sept. 6, 2009.
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Your local options abound, and unless you live in the desert, you don't need to resort to rocks and cacti unless you really like it.