E-mail this article to a friend | Printer friendly format | Submit A Comment

By Ramona Frances

There is a way to have beautifully landscaped property and not use an excessive amount of water. Voluntarily using a gardening method that conserves water now is more sensible than waiting for ordinances requiring it.

Several recent events, such as increased population, have dramatically increased the demand for water. Madera Valley Water, a private water company in north Madera County, uses designated watering days, a common conservation practice for over a decade. Since the company is owned and controlled by homeowners using the water, there is an invested interest to conserve.

The City of Madera also has designated watering days. For odd numbered addresses, watering days are Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Even numbered addresses may water Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Complaints from water users are common, whether they have lived in the valley for a long time or are new to the area. Often they have large thirsty lawns and water-loving trees and feel entitled to sufficient amounts of water to maintain the landscape they've become accustomed to and some refuse to consider new ideas until they see the possibilities for themselves.

Scientific-supported studies that claim urban water consumption can be significantly improved by using a specific horticulture practice known as xeriscape, which emphasizes water conservation by using design elements and management practices to achieve water conservation. Its method may include creating habitats using native plants or regional materials.

Practical by design, a xeriscape garden is planned for low-maintenance care, and it fits well with new measures designed to encourage property owners to use less water.



Xeriscape principals

• Group plants according to their requirements for sun and water. For example, tropical succulents and desert cactus have different water requirements.
• Zone irrigation systems to match plant needs. For example, shrubs may need water only once per week, flowers once per day during hot weather. Separate irrigation lines to meet the respective needs of the plants.
• Adjust irrigation needs according to season, at least four times a year. During winter, no irrigation may be needed. Over watering may encourage weed and disease problems in addition to wasting water.
• Design irrigation systems to emphasize uniformity, especially on turf areas. Make sure the delivery system is appropriate for the plants being watered. Drip irrigation is a practical alternative in many situations.
• Use turf for function more than appearance. Other plant materials can substitute for turf where frequent foot traffic or play does not occur. Warm season grasses are recommended because they require 50 percent less water in the growing season.
• Use islands of intensely managed and irrigated plantings for accent. A tasteful grouping of plants can make a strong statement than rambling shrubs or turf, using much less water.
• Use plants in climatic conditions to which they are adapted. Mediterranean climate plants, plants from South Africa and the dry parts of Australia are suited to our area. California natives should be considered, but not all are drought tolerant. Xeriscape is not limited to natives.
• Include hardscape design elements, which includes patios, decks and shelters, in the landscape to enhance outdoor environment. They require no water, and can add color through the use of container plants. Generally, container plants are higher maintenance than xeriscape, but with the use of lined or treated pots and a drip system, water evaporation can be slowed considerably.
• Fewer pest problems may occur when plants adapt to the site. Precise application of water limits weed growth and plant diseases.

A good xeriscape combines function and beauty. Crushed gravel from the street to the front door is not California xeriscape. Variations in plant and landscape color, texture, and form are part of a planned xeriscape design.

(Master Gardener Handbook, UC Davis publication contributed to this article.)

---

Ramona Frances Ramona Frances is a staff columnist, writer and photographer for the Madera Tribune. You may contact Ramona at 674.8134 ext. 222 or by e-mail ramona (at) maderatribune.net The Madera Tribune online subscription To subscribe or log on, CLICK HERE. For more information first, CLICK HERE.