Sustainable landscaping takes root

The term “xeriscape” evokes puzzled looks from most people.  But it’s a concept that’s simple, powerful and common-sense, even if awkwardly named.  Instead of a grass yard which has come to be thought of as traditional, landscaping can be sustainable by using plants and trees that are native to the area and require little if any supplemental water.  Opting for xeriscaping saves time from mowing, saves water from irrigating, and can save money, too.  And the results can be just as — if not more — attractive.

Aurora, Colorado installed a large xeriscape garden when it built a new municipal center just a few years ago.  Not only was it the right thing to do for its own sake, but the site is very much intended to be an educational demonstration garden for the city residents, to see what plantings they might like and dislike as alternatives to grass.  And here’s what might really make residents take notice: a rebate program.  Replace your turf lawn with a low-irrigation alternative and the city will pay you $1 per square foot.  This isn’t the only such program in the country, but it’s rare. 

Other cities may or may not want to replicate the rebate program, but the xeriscape concept is ripe to spread across the country, especially in regions where water conservation is already a priority.

Advertisement