Desert Landscaping for Homes
Authentic desert landscaping enhances homes in hot weather environments.. Because water is so precious, plants that maximize the use of water, along with those that have the ability to withstand harsh sunlight, make the best choice in terms of conservation, pleasing appearance, and ease of maintenance. With a little research and planning, you can have lush greens or even bright colors that will thrive in your desert garden. Does this Spark an idea?
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Principles of Xeriscaping
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Xeriscaping is the use of native plants and landscaping techniques to reduce water use, maintain an attractive appearance, and minimize plant loss in dry climates that often see drought conditions. Planning is an integral part of xeriscaping. Building up terraces that drain moisture down to more water-hungry plants should be part of your garden planning. Choosing good plants that will thrive in desert conditions is another crucial feature. Soil amendments that provide proper nutrients and adequate drainage are important in xeriscaping, as are the use of mulches that minimize moisture loss. Designing efficient irrigation and maintaining your plants correctly are the final principles of xeriscape landscaping.
Choose Native Plants
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It's best to choose plants that are native to your area when desert landscaping. These plants have already adapted themselves to harsh conditions and will not need expensive fertilizers and nutrients to thrive. Grouping plants that need the same amount of water is the first step to consider. This will require a little research on your part. Talk to your local nursery or garden center, where employees will be able to steer you to the best plants for your area.
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Plants for Desert Landscaping
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Maiden grass, pampas, blur oak, Mexican feather, deergrass, and purple fountain create good effects in desert landscaping when planted near large rocks or terraced areas.
Succulents like aloe, agave, sago palm, yucca, ocotillo, and candelilla can be used throughout desert landscapes to add drought-resistant greenery. They require minimum care and provide dramatic effects.
Flowers found in desert areas--like marigolds, African daisies, Indian blanket, desert coreopsis, blackfoot daisies, penstemon, sage, senna and mallow-- add color in your desert garden.
Bushes and trees--including Texas sage, oleander, palo blanco, bird of paradise, desert willow, Arizona rosewood, chaste tree, and feather bush--will provide greenery, shade and shelter for desert wildlife.
No desert landscape would be complete without well-placed, low-water cactus. Many species flower at certain times of the year. Try planting compass barrel, saguaro, Hildmann's cereus, or prickly pear for authentic southwestern flair.
Mulching
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Mulching your plants is one of the most important things you can do for your desert landscaping. Mulch protects the roots of plants during cold spells, keeps nutrients in the soil, and prevents evaporation of precious moisture. Chipped bark can be used generally, or choose gravel for succulents that dislike having their roots left damp.
Fertilizing Desert Plants
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Desert plants generally need little fertilizing. When in doubt, do a soil test which is available from garden centers or your local university extension. This will tell you what nutrients are needed for your soil.
Watering
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Even if you have designed your desert landscape to make the most efficient use of available water, some plants may require additional watering. Place plants that need more water together in one group and position your sprinkler heads properly.
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References
- Photo Credit cactus image by Philippe LERIDON from Fotolia.com
