Xeriscaping is a landscaping method that focuses on water conservation. It uses drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation techniques to minimize water usage. Great for dry climates or places with water restrictions.
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The essentials:
- Layout optimized for water use.
- Soil that retains just enough moisture, without drying or soaking.
- Drought-tolerant plants.
- Efficient irrigation.
- Application of mulch to maximize water retention.
- Pruning and weeding.
Layout
- Group plants with similar water needs.
- Consider the sunlight and shade each plant will get.
- Slopes and contours for efficient water runoff.
- Use permeable materials like gravel on pathways to allow water absorption.
- Keep plant sizes in check to prevent overgrowth and increased water use.
Soil
- Know and test the soil compatibility.
- Improve water retention with organic matter.
- Loosen any compacted soil to improve water infiltration.
Plants
- Prefer native.
- Pick the ones that require less water.
- Consider long roots.
- A good pick may be the ones that bloom during the wettest seasons.
Some options for Portugal’s central area climate below.
| English | Portuguese | Scientific |
|---|---|---|
| Lavender | Lavanda | Lavandula |
| Rosemary | Alecrim | Rosmarinus officinalis |
| Oleander | Loendro | Nerium oleander |
| Olive trees | Oliveiras | Olea europaea |
| Sage | Salva | Salvia officinalis |
| Thyme | Tomilho | Thymus vulgaris |
| Bougainvillea | Buganvília | Bougainvillea |
| Succulents | Suculentas | Suculentas |
| Cork Oak | Sobreiro | Quercus suber |
| Myrtle | Murta | Myrtus communis |
| Mediterranean Cypress | Cipreste | Cupressus sempervirens |
| Sea Lavender | Limónio | Limonium |
| Artemisia | Artemísia | Artemisia absinthium |
| Santolina | Botão-de-ouro | Santolina chamaecyparissus |
Mulch
- Gravel or stone for quick drainage.
- Pine bark to slowly decompose, for acid-loving plants.
- Coarse sand for succulents and other drought-tolerant plants.