Seven Principles of Xeriscape

The Seven Principles of Xeriscape will assure an attractive, healthy landscape with just the right amount of water.

Plan and design comprehensively
Have a plan. Find out where things are. Consider the view, slope, exposure and soils of the area. Take into account the existing vegetation and topography of the site and intended use. Decide where things will be. Decide when things will be done. Most landscapes are best done in phases.
Evaluate soil and improve if necessary
Soils can vary within a given site; an analysis based on random sampling can provide information for plant selection and soil amendments. The soils in Colorado Springs range from clay to sand, and both are low in organic material. Whether clay or sand, the soil in your landscape will benefit from the addition of sphagnum peat moss, compost, aged manure or other decomposed organic materials. This will improve root development, water penetration and retention. Improve the soil before planting and installing the irrigation system.
Create practical turf areas
The type and location of turf areas should be considered a major design element of the landscape. The selection and location of turf should be decided on the same basis as other plantings, such as your purpose and function of the landscape. The reduction or elimination of high-water-use turf areas, and locating them separately so that they may be watered more efficiently, can result in significant reductions in water use.
Use appropriate plants
Most plants have a place in Xeriscape - even those that have high water needs. Plant selection should be based on the intended use in the landscape. Use of more plants with low water needs and native plants will allow the maximum water conservation.
Water efficiently
If an irrigation system is to be installed, it should be well planned and well managed. Turf areas should be watered separately. Group plants with like water needs, and water each group on separate zones. Not all plants need the same amount of water. Irrigation needs change with the season and the weather. Irrigate according to the needs of the plants rather than watering on a fixed schedule. Even plants used in Xeriscape will require supplemental irrigation until they become established (two or three years).
Use organic mulch
Mulch minimizes evaporation, reduces weed growth, slows erosion and helps prevent soil temperature fluctuations. Organic mulch such as wood chips or bark is best, and although this mulch will decompose slowly over time, it will improve the soil by adding nutrients. The use of plastic is not recommended because it will cause organic mulch to slide and prevent air and water from filtering into the soil. Runoff will be increased. Inorganic mulch, such as rock, should be used sparingly. Surrounding a home with rock will increase the temperatures, making the environment too warm for plants and people.
Maintain appropriately
Proper pruning, weeding and fertilization, plus attention to the irrigation system, will preserve and enhance the quality of Xeriscape. A landscape adapted to the environment will require less maintenance, less fertilizer and reduce the use of pesticides and other chemicals.