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Monday, August 1, 2011

Xeriscaping, not Zeroscaping


After two exceptionally dry years and record low water tables, the word "xeriscape" is becoming a new buzzword. Many assume that it means growing only cactus and yuccas and covering the soil with gravel. Nothing could be further from the truth. Lauren Springer, in her book The Undaunted Garden refers to her xeriscape as a "lush, dry garden." One needs only to learn which plants can be classed as xerophytic — they require less water or have better methods of obtaining water, (i.e. a long taproot system) or retaining it (i.e. waxy leaves that retard transpiration). Neither does xeriscaping mean never again being able to grow water guzzlers such as astilbe or ligularias. It is simply a matter or organization — grouping plants together according to the water requirements.

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