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All
plants need water; even cacti and yuccas need an occasional soaking
to keep them alive and growing. Nearly 50 percent of the water consumed
by the average house hold is used for landscape plantings and turf
grass, but with the proper planning, every landscape can conserve
water and still be beautiful and functional. Although
it may seem so, the object is not to turn the landscape into a sea
of gravel and plastic in order to save water. This only increases
the temperature around the home, which in turn increases the water
needs of the existing plants. The roots of established trees and
shrubs cannot get water or oxygen and they starve. An organic mulch,
consisting of pine needles, bark, or even chopped straw is preferred
over the rock or gravel. Many
plants are available for dry landscapes. Referred to as xeroscape
plants (xero=dry; scape=landscape), these plants are chosen for
their low-water requirements.SOIL
PREPARATION-
The soils of the dry Southern and Southwestern areas of the United
States are deficient in organic matter. They typically have an organic
content of 1 percent or less. Other than cacti and a few other succulents;
grasses, flowers, trees, shrubs, and other ornamentals are most
successful in soils with an organic content close to 5 percent.
In dry regions, where the soil is mostly clay or sand, organic matter
must be worked into the soil. A higher
organic content retains moisture more readily while preventing plant
nutrients from escaping from the soil. As the added organic matter
decomposes, it releases nutrients and acids into the soil. The nutrients
are then absorbed by the plants. Acids help to balance the dry land
soils, which are typically basic (alkaline). The released acids
also help correct iron deficiency. For
every 1000 square feet, three-to-six cubic yards of organic matter
should be worked into the soil at a depth of 9 inches. This results
in 1-to-2 inches of added material. Compost, coarse sphagnum peat
moss, shredded leaves, horse manure, or other coarse organic matter
can be used. The addition of manure to saline soils can increase
the salt level and reduce plant growth. Feedlot manures are especially
high in salts and should be avoided if at all possible. Finely ground
organic amendments should also be avoided as they block drainage,
and cause problems with root rot and salt buildup. Do
not pulverize the soil. Excessive tillage destroys the granular
structure necessary for air and water movement within the soil.
Organic
matter should be added to garden areas each year. Those who use
containers to raise flowers and shrubs should prepare the soil before
planting. In
the areas where turf is being planted, work the soil deeply, adding
organic matter in the process. Since these areas will only be prepared
once, they must be done correctly the first time.A soil
test will provide information concerning which soil nutrients are
lacking. A county agent or farm advisor can provide names and addresses
of reputable soil-testing facilities. The use of gypsum, sulfur,
or other chemical additives should not be applied unless specifically
recommended by a reputable soil-testing laboratory. PLANT
SELECTION-
A variety of plants can survive in many dry land areas. To help
select the plants most suited to a specific region, determine the
annual precipitation and hardiness zone. If the irrigation water
is limited in the region, select only those plants with very low
water requirements. Many
variations in soil types, water quality and climate can occur in
a relatively small area. The local nursery can provide further information
on the suitability of these plants. Select
plants that are suited to the exposure they will receive. When planting
on the north side of the home, or in the shadow of the trees or
shrubs, be sure to choose shade-tolerant plants. When planting in
full sun, use sun-loving plants. By
replacing turf with mulch, shrub beds, or ground covers, the total
water usage is reduced dramatically. Without the turf to irrigate,
the water saved can be used to maintain flower beds, shrubs and
trees.
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