What is Xeriscaping? Is It Right for Me?
What is Xeriscaping?
The term “xeriscape” was coined right here in Colorado in the 1980s. The Greek word “xeros,” meaning “dry,” was combined with the word “landscape” to form “xeriscape,” literally meaning “dry landscape.”
This environmentally friendly style of landscaping requires little or no irrigation or other maintenance. It is most frequently used in dry regions, such as Colorado, and incorporates native plants that thrive in the local climate and conditions.
Benefits of Xeriscaping
When using plants native to Colorado, the plants tend to thrive in our local climate and conditions. Benefits of xeriscaping with locally native plants include:
Water conservation - less additional water needed
Less maintenance
Little to no additional fertilization
Fewer disease and pest problems
More sustainable plants
Beautiful landscaping
Plants Native to Colorado
There are many plants native to Colorado, which means you have a lot of options for your xeriscaping! Many of these plants can add color and variety throughout your yard. Here are just a few perennials, succulents, shrubs, and trees for you to consider.
Perennials
Common Yarrow
Bee Balm
Rocky Mountain Penstemon
Prairie Coneflower
Goldenrod
Cacti & Succulents
Plains Yucca
Prickly Pear
Shrubs
Western Sandcherry
Golden Currant
Western Wild Rose
Trees
Rocky Mountain Maple
Pinyon Pine
Gambel Oak
Ask us about our recommendations!
View a complete list of plants native to Colorado, courtesy of the Colorado Native Plant Society.
Is Xeriscaping Right For Me?
Are you looking to conserve water, minimize maintenance, and have beautiful, native plants in your yard? If you answered yes, then you’re ready for xeriscaping!
If you’re hesitant to transition to a fully xeriscaped yard, consider starting small. Incorporate xeriscaping in flower beds and edges of the yard to accent your space. This will help conserve water and beautify your yard without fully transitioning to xeriscaping.
Ready to Start?
If you want to start saving money on water and you’re ready for xeriscaping, call Skip Stone Landscapes at (719) 445-1950. Our experienced team can help with the design and installation of a beautiful xeriscaped yard.