I read a great article on landscaping this past week and it had me reflecting on "gardens" here in Tucson, AZ.
When I first moved to our desert environment back in 2000, I have to admit it took more than a few months to get used to seeing folks rake their rocks rather than break out a lawn mower. Over time, I learned the value of water conservation, heat-loving plants and something called Xeriscaping.
Xeriscaping is a landscaping approach that focuses on creating beautiful outdoor spaces while conserving water and reducing maintenance requirements. The term "xeriscape" originates from the Greek word "xeros," meaning dry, and "scape," referring to a view or scene. Xeriscaping is particularly popular in arid and drought-prone regions where water conservation is essential, like Tucson, AZ.
Within the xeriscape plan, a local uses drought-tolerant plants and combines it with water-saving irrigation, or...not! Some of our native plants need little or no water, depending upon how often we get water. River stone is used to create "rivers of rock" and gravel walkways break up the landscaping terrain which is often finished with colored gravel.
Another thing quite important in our area is planting "local, native plants". Break out Google, Chatgpt, or your nearby landscaping nursery for advice here. Watch your ground cover placement as well! Realize that if you plant a few sprouts in a corner of your yard of aloe vera ...know that HALF your yard will be overcome in a manner of years! One of our local builders used a ground cover in their landscaping design...and cover it did -- taking over whole front yard areas. What I'm saying is, don't only choose native plantings...but keep your ground covers contained or in pots, and watch which trees you incorporate.
It's important not to overwater your trees. Low and slow is best...so the roots learn to dig deep and cement themselves to the land. Otherwise, your fast-growing Palo-verde or Mesquite will be down in a future windstorm, unable to take the summer monsoon ferocity!
So many rules, so much enjoyment...just a reminder to research before planning your SW Desert Garden here in beautiful Tucson. Consider me your reminder to visit the source, as I am not knowledgeable by any means. Simply pointing the way to the experts down the way.
Enjoy
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