Xeriscaping - North Carolina

Xeriscaping - North Carolina

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  XERISCAPING With droughtconditions in North Carolina it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep a healthy garden. P2pays.org would like to offer some assistance on making the most of the rain that does fall, with tips on xeriscaping. This type of landscaping makes the most out of rainfall, and can significantly lower the amount of water needed for a landscape’s upkeep. Xeriscaping Tips: ~ Create a Plan! Determine the placement and grouping of plants based on the amount of sunlight and water they will need and receive. Place the taller plants in the back and shorter plants in the front. ~ Limit the amount of grass in the landscape. In shaded and dry areas replace grass with plants that can thrive with little sunlight and water. In areas of high traffic replace grass with patios and walkways. ~ Group plants with similar water needs together. This planning allows more efficient irrigation. ~ Improve the soil by applying an organic layer of manure or compost to it; this will help the soil retain the water longer. A thin layer of mulch on top of the soil will reduce the amount of water lost through evaporation. ~ When irrigating, do not over water! Watering plants at a slow rate will allow better absorption and reduce erosion. Do not water during the hottest times of the day if avoidable. Sources and Further Information ~ www.xeriscape.org/ Why Xeriscape? ~ www.eartheasy.com/grow_xeriscape.htm ~ Reduces water usage by 50%-75% Databases ~ http://plants.usda.gov/ ~ Improves soil ~ http://ncbg.unc.edu/pages/44/ ~ Less work is required for planting, irrigating and weeding your garden. DPPEA-FY07-10