The Basics of Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping is the practice of landscaping with native plants. Native plants are essential to Hawaiiʻs ecosystems and are deeply integrated into Hawaiian culture. Additionally, xeriscaping with native plants requires water only during the period directly following transplanting. This is because native plants are uniquely adapted to Hawaiiʻs climate and soils, making them an excellent choice for water-wise landscaping. The Department of Water encourages the use of native Hawaiian plants in yards to both promote water conservation and potentially reduce water bills.

Fundamentals: 7 Steps to Xeriscaping

Planning & Design

Taking the time to plan and design your xeriscape is paramount to success. Begin by accessing the strengths and weaknesses of your land. Ask yourself: Is your property flat or on a slope? If it is on a slope, you may need to terrace. How does your property orient towards the sun and tradewinds? How much rain falls in your area? Is the drainage adequate?

Next, consider how you use your lawn. Is your backyard used for family activities or social gatherings? Do you need to store tools, cars, or boats in your yard? Do you have pets? Do you need to screen your property from view or preserve a view? All of these uses must be considered in your plan.

Finally, itʻs time to select your plants. Walk around your neighborhood and observe the plants that are growing wild in the field and woods. These are the same plants that will thrive in your xeriscape.

Soil Improvements

Take a shovel and dig a small hole. Observe how hard it is to dig and what the soil looks like. Pour a gallon of water into the hole. While noticing how long the water takes to be absorbed, take a handful of wet dirt and squeeze it into a ball. If you can crumble that ball of dirt, then the chances are that you have good soil. If not, then it is time to start a compost pile or bin.

Limit Turf Areas

Grass requires more water than most other plants because the mat of blades and roots is so thick that water has a hard time penetrating. A thick green lawn only absorbs about 1/3 of an inch of water per hour. Any extra water evaporates or runs off.

Xeriscaping limits grass to the areas where it is necessary, such as backyards where children play. Less frequently used front and side lawns are candidates for trees, shrubs and groundcovers.

Use Mulches

Mulches are a great way to conserve water. They also reduce the need to weed, cool the soil, check erosion and are attractive. You can use organic mulches such as grass clippings, pine needles or bark. Spread these in eighteen inch or larger circle around the base of a plant. To control weeds, spread your mulch to a depth of three to four inches. You can also sue a special black plastic netting under the mulch to control weeds. Other popular mulches include red and black lava cinders and crushed coral.

Use of Low-Water-Demanding Plants

Xeriscape in zones. Place exotic imported plants, such as roses, close to your house and near downspouts from your gutters. This is the moderate water use zone. A little further away is the low water use zone. Place shrubs that require little water in this zone. Furhter out will be the very low water use zone. Native shade trees, palms and plumerias belong in this zone.

Efficient Irrigation

If your xeriscape contains grass, a well planned sprinkler system can save money. Be sure to include moisture sensors so the system can shut down when the ground is wet or when rain is expected.

Drip irrigation works best for trees and shrubs. Soaker hoses are the simplest solution to drip irrigation. Slotted pipe is a slightly more permanent solution.

A good drip system consists of a pressure regulator, a filter, and anti-syphon valve and an automatic timer. Then, of course, there is the plastic tubing. All of this is available from your hardware store and will cost a few dollars. However, when you consider the cost of the water you now waste watering your plants, the return on your investment will not take that long.

Appropriate Maintenance

By maintaining your xeriscape, you can minimize the need for fertilizers, pesticides, and watering. Focus on deep, infrequent watering to establish roots, control emerging weeds early on, and apply 2-4 inches of mulch to retain moisture.