Xeriscape: The Seven Principles of Landscape Water Conservation

A Xeriscape is a yard or garden that follows certain principles that are both practical and environmentally friendly. It is not the same as zero-scaping and does not focus on rocks, stone and gravel, but on greenery.

The seven principles of xeriscaping are:

1. Planning and design
2. Improve the soil
3. Select appropriate plants and group by water needs
4. Create practical lawn areas
5. Water efficiently
6. Use mulch to reduce evaporation
7. Maintain your xeriscape

"Xeriscaping creates beautiful urban environments where owners spend more time enjoying it then maintaining it," says Heather Gowland, Waste and Recycling Coordinator at the City of Lethbridge.

Xeriscaping also conserves water and uses less pesticides and fertilizers which can save residents money while reducing the risk of polluting storm water.

More information and xeriscaping resources can be found by visiting http://bit.ly/LWgFAP, www.prairieurbangarden.ca, or from the Oldman Watershed Council at www.oldmanbasin.org.