As the world steadily progresses in its state of crisis, it’s time for us to take action and do our part in preserving nature. One of the ways we can contribute is by implementing sustainable practices. Xeriscaping, also known as water-efficient landscaping, is a fantastic solution for water conservation that often goes unnoticed. As facilities maintenance managers, operations directors, and CEO’s, it’s crucial to consider the impact of landscaping on the environment. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to xeriscaping and discuss its benefits
What exactly is xeriscaping?
Xeriscaping, a term coined by the Denver Water Department in 1981, refers to landscaping practices that minimize water consumption. The root word, “xeri,” means “dry,” and “scape” means “view.” These two words come together to mean the creation of a beautiful view with drought-resistant plants and other landscaping features while using little to no additional water.
What are the benefits of xeriscaping?
There are many benefits to xeriscaping, one of which is the reduction of water usage. With our proper planning and implementation, xeriscaping can reduce water usage by up to 70%. It means that we can save millions of gallons of water annually, which can make a significant impact on our planet.
Moreover, xeriscaping requires less maintenance and is therefore less expensive in the long run. Drought-resistant plants are less likely to wilt or die during periods of drought, requiring less upkeep. Additionally, xeriscaping reduces the amount of grass in landscapes, reducing the cost of mowing.
What are the different elements of xeriscaping?
In xeriscaping, there are seven fundamental elements to consider. These include:
- Planning and design
- Soil amendment
- Appropriate plant selection
- Practical turf areas
- Efficient irrigation
- Use of mulches
- Proper maintenance.
When these elements come together, they make up a xeriscape garden that is not only easy to maintain but also visually appealing.
Xeriscaping is a fantastic solution for water conservation while enhancing the beauty of our landscaped areas. By incorporating xeriscaping in your organization’s landscaping plan, you are not only contributing to the sustainability of our planet, but you’re also reducing your organization’s future expenses. A green landscape makes for a happier and healthier work environment, and it’s time for us to make the change. With small steps in the right direction, your organization could be contributing to the solution instead of the problem. We hope this post educates and inspires you to partner with Powerhouse to implement xeriscaping in your organization.