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Colorado
is a semi arid state with rainfall averaging 10-15” per year.
Over 50% of domestic water is used for outside landscapes and lawns.
Effective water use is something we don’t think of unless we have
a problem. Colorado in the drought of 2002 has a problem! Xeriscaping
is the process of reduction of outside water consumption by using these
fundamentals to save water:
- Planning
and Design.
A professional landscape design will greatly
enhance the look and practicality of your design. Designers trained
in proper plant selection and landscape principles can add quite a
lot to property values.
- Turf
Alternatives.
Considering other alternatives to sod are very
helpful in the reduction of water usage. Patios, decks, mulches and
rock with plantings beautify your home and add to it’s value.
- Mulches.
Mulches are an ideal replacement for turf areas.
Mulches cover the soil and minimize evaporation, reduce weed growth
and slow erosion. Organic mulches typically include fir fiber, bark,
pole peelings, ground recycled wood products etc. Non organic mulches
include rock and other gravel products.
- Zoning
of Plants.
This again is where it is helpful to have a professional design your
yard. Each plant has a specific water requirement. Plantings with
similar requirements need to be grouped for the specific microclimate
around your home.
- Soil
Improvements.
Rocky mountain soils are improved with the addition
of organic matter. This allows for better absorption of water and
improved water holding capacity of the soil. Soils that have organic
matter also provide beneficial nutrients to plants, as well as for
deep root growth. Newer technologies
using polymers (water absorbing crystals) add to your soils for water
retention
- Efficient
Irrigation. A well planned and
maintained sprinkler system can reduce a traditional landscape’s
water use by up to 40%! For efficient water use plan your sod zones
efficiently with the proper sprinkler heads. The drip system is the
most effective way of watering your trees, shrubs and perennials.
Selecting the proper clock that will allow your to water on the proper
days (eg water restrictions) and reduce the overall % of watering
time by a simple adjustment. Clocks having a minimum of 3 programs
are advantageous to watering vegetable gardens, flower beds, sod and
other areas with specific plant requirements.
- Appropriate
Maintenance. Regular landscape
and sprinkler maintenance preserves the intended beauty of your landscape
and saves water. Proper mowing, pruning, weeding, fertilization and
use of pest controls further water savings.
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