High Elevation Gardening Web Log "Blog"

An essential feature of a xeriscaped yard is the creation of water use zones where plants with similar water needs are grouped together. A vegetable garden needs more water than a low water perennial border, and drought-adapted native plants need even less. Grouping lets you water more efficiently with less waste from over watering.

In addition, a Xeriscape will be easier to maintain during extended periods of drought. If watering is restricted because of drought, inefficient water-thirsty landscapes will suffer the most. By installing a Xeriscape, you can protect your landscape investment.

Northern Arizona residents have the opportunity to learn more about Xeriscape through a series of classes being offered at Coconino Community College this spring. The first class in the four part series covers the concept of Xeriscape and introduces the seven Xeriscape principles which are appropriate planning and design, soil analysis and improvement, more efficient irrigation, practical turf areas, appropriate plant selection, use of mulches, and maintenance.

The second class in the series, Xeriscape II - Soils, Mulch, and Compost, starts with the basics of composting. Compost is one of the best soil amendments for improving garden soil. Soil improvement is the key to any good landscape and allows plants to develop bigger root systems that can access moisture more efficiently. Properly prepared soils allow for better absorption of water and improved soil water holding capacity.

Mulch is a layer of material covering the soil surface around plants and can be organic such as bark or inorganic like rock. Mulch plays an important part in a Xeriscape garden. It reduces evaporation from the soil surface, eliminates weed competition, and helps capture rainwater by allowing hard rains to soak into the soil. And, organic mulches keep the soil cooler. Plus, mulch gives the landscape a pleasing and tidy look.

Once you've installed a Xeriscape, it is important to water it correctly. Unless you have used only the most drought tolerant plants, irrigation is necessary for a xeric landscape especially during the first few years when plants are getting established. The key is to apply water as efficiently as possible. Xeriscape III - Water Management will focus on irrigation, alternative water sources, and methods to reduce water waste.

Using native and other drought-tolerant plants can significantly reduce water use in your landscape. Xeriscape IV - Plant Selection will introduce you to the many native and low-water use plants that are appropriate for our region and aide you in choosing plants for the many varied habitats found in and around Flagstaff. There are many attractive, colorful, and interesting plants available that will survive on less water; selecting these plants will help you create a beautiful, water-wise landscape.

Xeriscape I will be offered on March 31. Xeriscape II will be held April 14. Xeriscape III is on April 21 and Xeriscape IV will be April 28. You can sign up for any or all of the four-part series. Each class costs $25. For more information or to register, call 928-526-7644. All classes will be held from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the Lonetree Campus of Coconino Community College. The Xeriscape Workshop Series is brought to you by the Flagstaff Xeriscape Council.

By Hattie Braun
The author is the Master Gardener Program Coordinator for Coconino Cooperative Extension. For more information about the Master Gardener program, call 928-774-1868 ext. 17.