Water Blog

Xeriscape isn’t only types of plants; it’s a system.  Whether or not you install a full water wise garden, the 7 steps of Xeriscape are good landscape practices in Greeley’s semi-arid climate. Learn more about Xeriscape in Greeley's 2019 Landscape Lecture Series. Here are some of the classes that have a strong Xeriscape focus: 

Seven Steps of Xeriscape

1. Planning and Design:  Plan before you plant. Think about landscape needs,  backyard activities, and existing features to determine how you should plan it.
2. Soil Amendment: Soil will retain 30% more moisture when compost is added.
3. Reduced Turf:  Instead of a large expanse of bluegrass, plant shrubs, trees, ground covers, and other plants that require less water.
4. Efficient Irrigation:  Drip irrigation and bubblers are efficient ways to water plants at the ground level to reduce evaporation.
5. Appropriate Plant Selection:  Choose low water use plants. Group plants with similar water, sun, and soil needs in the same area of your yard. Visit PlantsForGreeley.com  for ideas on what can thrive in northern Colorado. 
6. Use of Mulches: To minimize evaporation, impede weed growth, slow erosion, and help prevent soil and temperature fluctuations.
7. Appropriate Maintenance: Proper pruning, weeding, fertilization and proper attention to the irrigation system will preserve and enhance the quality of your Xeriscape. A landscape adapted to the environment will require less maintenance, less fertilizer, and reduce the use of pesticides and other chemicals.

Check out Greeley's Xeriscape Garden at 2503 Reservoir Road. You can see how Xeriscape can offer year-round beauty.