Save Water…And Beautify Your Garden
Outdoor sprinklers can account for 40 percent of household water use during the summer.
With some simple and easy garden planning, known as Xeriscape landscaping, you may be able to reduce your landscape water use by 50 to 60 percent.
From the Greek word “xeros,” which means “dry,” xeriscape gardens require less water than traditional gardens.
By selecting drought-tolerant plants and using water-wise gardening techniques, you can:
- Reduce your outdoor water use
- Create a colorful, natural garden
- Spend less time on garden maintenance
- Save water and lower your water bill
The seven principles of water-wise ("Xeric") landcaping are:
1. Planning and Design: a good plan includes plant grouping and placement, consideration of sun direction and total water and maintenance costs.
2. Practical Turf Areas: Put turf grass in areas where there is a functional benefit. Small strips and slopes might be better served with less water-demanding materials.
3. Efficient Irrigation: A well planned sprinkler system can save money! Make sure to use the correct type of sprinkler system for the area and plants you are watering.
4. Soil Improvement: Improving your soil with organic matter improves water holding capacity and allows for better water absorption.
5. Mulching: The practice is a great addition to any landscape. Mulches cover and cool soil, minimize weed growth, slow erosion and evaporation, and add interest.
6. Appropriate Plant Selection: Select plants for adaptability to the area. Grouping plants together based on water and sun needs save time and water.
7. Good Maintenance: A well maintained yard is necessary with any type of landscape. Weeding, pruning, appropriate fertilizing and regular irrigation adjustments help keep a yard beautiful while reducing wasteful water use.
Here are some natives and adaptive plants that work well in Boise.
Low-Water Demonstration Garden
United Water Idaho has installed a Low-Water Demonstration Garden at our Victory Road office. We removed a section of water-intensive lawn and replaced it with low water Xeriscape landscaping. You’ll see that with proper planning, native plants can make your yard beautiful and save water and money.
You’re invited to visit our demonstration garden by stopping by our offices at 8248 West Victory Road.
We have also partnered with the State of Idaho and the Idaho Botanical Garden to install low-water gardens in the community. Visit the Idaho State Capitol Building (north side) to view water-efficient landcaping at the Statehouse.
The Idaho Botanical Garden's new low-water garden is off of Warm Springs Avenue, between the State Archives Building and the Old Penitentiary.
Find out more about our water-conserving Xeriscaping program.
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Click here to view the plant list of the Xeriscape garden at our office.