Utah is experiencing one of the highest recorded droughts in its history, and Utahns throughout the state must do what they can to minimize their water use. One of the ways that homeowners can effectively reduce their water usage is by switching their landscaping to xeriscaping! Now, what is xeriscaping? Xeriscaping is based upon making landscaping choices that require little to no water to maintain, all while keeping up a stylish look to your home.

Since Utah homeowners need to conserve water, many cities are offering incentives for those who convert to xeriscaping. Many cities also have resources available to help evaluate your watering systems and collect data reports about your water usage.

Where Do I Begin?

Homeowners can begin their xeriscaping journey by first accessing their yard to determine where the best use of their water usage will be. For example, if you have a garden area you would like to dedicate most of your water usage, the other areas should have minimal water needs. Next, check to ensure that your sprinkler system, if you have one, is set up for water conservation measures. Finally, check your city’s specific water restrictions that are in place, and check to make sure that your sprinklers are watering what needs to grow and not being wasted in gutters, streets, sidewalks, or driveways.

For residents of Park City, watering is prohibited between 10:01 AM and 6:59 PM during the irrigation season. Homeowners should alternate their watering schedules. Homes with even addresses will water on even days, odd homes on odd days.

Prepping the Area

Xeriscaping does require some work to get it established. However, a combination of good soil, fertilizer, and mulch can help minimize water by keeping the moisture levels good and providing nourishing soil for your plants to prosper.

Remove the grass from areas you plan to convert to mulch or rocks. Once the grass is removed and sprinklers diverted or closed, consider laying down weed guard to prevent any pop-up grass or weeds from coming up through. Mulch can be beneficial in reducing weed growth, and it comes in various complementary shades and colors.

Rockscaping and hardscaping, which parts of your yard do you want to have no water need? Consider expanding your patio, having a rock garden, or a fire pit area. There are lots of fun, family-engaging ideas to transform parts of your yard to be functional and reduced or water-free.

What Types of Plants Should Be Used?

A common misconception when people hear xeriscaping is the assumption that it is just decorative rocks and mulch. While effective and stylish xeriscaping includes rocks and mulch, it also involves living plants. When selecting your plants, consider the year-round look that they will provide. Just like with traditional landscaping, it is essential to consider how much light the plants will receive and how much space they will need to prosper. When considering your drought resistant plants, be sure to have a good mix of heights and colors,

Drought-friendly plants include the following:

Succulents – Indigo Bush, Yucca, Evening Primrose, etc.
Flowers, Shrubs, and Trees – Silvery Lupine, Utah Mountain Lilac ,Great Basic Sagebrush, etc. perennials, evergreens, etc. Having potted flowers, herbs, and vegetables can also be a great, beautiful way to accent your yard!
Ground coverings – Periwinkle, Creeping Thyme, Evergreen Moss, etc.

What’s Next?

Once xeriscaping has been established, the maintenance involved is relatively low. Maintenance tasks include pruning, weeding, and mainly fertilizing. Once your xeriscaping is complete, you can feel good about the water conservation efforts you have made to help keep Park City’s water level at a more sustainable level!

Contact Jensen and Company in Park City for all your Utah real estate needs!