1. Planning and Design
Think about what your
landscape will look like during each season
of the year. Will there be something
attractive to look at even during the winter
months? How will you use that backyard?
Will a hardscape patio area enhance your
lifestyle? Perhaps an herb garden would be
attractive and useful. Planning a landscape
for maximum enjoyment means thinking
about these questions and creating a plan
to meet your needs.
Discover how to use low-water flowers, plants and grasses in a variety of yards. Click here to learn more.
2. Soil Analysis & Improvement
Know your soil before you
plant. Having four to six
inches of good soil is best,
but may not be practical for
the entire yard in certain
parts our city. For instance,
for those with very thin soil,
sticking with native Hill
Country plants is probably
best. In areas well-amended
with compost or areas with
naturally deeper soils, some
semi-tropical plants will do
well. In any case, as a rule
adding more organic
material is better.
3. Plant Selection
Pick a good
shade tree or two. Enjoy some native plants
or ones well-adapted to our area. Click here for a list of native water-saving plants.
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4. Turfgrass
Think about why you
want some grass and where it will suit you
best. Ideally no more than half of your
landscape should be grass. Choose a grass
type that is drought-tolerant. There are
many attractive varieties available for our
area that can survive dry periods when
necessary. Having six inches of soil is
particularly important for keeping any
kind of grass healthy.
5. Efficient Irrigation
A wellplanned
Xeriscape will need little
supplemental irrigation once it is established.
If you decide to invest in an in-ground
irrigation system, plan one that allows you
to water in distinct plant zones. Shade
areas need much less water than sunny
ones. Grass and perennials should not be
included in the same zones because their
need is so different. Work closely with a
licensed irrigator and ask many questions
about how you can water only where and
when needed.
6. Use of Mulches
Laying down
several inches of mulch in garden beds is
an important investment. Mulch keeps
plant roots cool during hot weather. It
holds critical moisture. And, it helps
control weeds that can take over gardens.
7. Appropriate Maintenance
The San Antonio Landscape Care Guide
will help you maintain your landscape.
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