Xeriscape Gardens: 7 Principles for Beautiful, Water-Wise Landscapes

Xeriscape isn’t a style—it’s a comprehensive philosophy for water conservation, coined by Denver Water in 1981. Seven integrated principles create resilient, beautiful habitats, whether you’re in a drought zone or simply want to tread lightly.

1. Comprehensive Plan

Design for your site’s realities: soil, sun/shade, drainage, views, existing plants. Match to lifestyle needs—dining, play, food, privacy.

2. Practical Turf Areas

Lawn where it functions: play, cooling. Use drought-tolerant/native grasses (dwarf tall fescue, Texas bluegrass, buffalo grass, blue grama). Less water, fertilizer, mowing.

3. Hydrozone: Group by Water Needs

Bulk of palette: drought-tolerant, native, well-adapted. Thirsty plants (edibles, containers) clustered for efficient irrigation. South-facing slope = low-water zone. Low damp area = moderate/high zone.

4. Improve Soil

Test before planting/irrigating. Local extension office pinpoints amendments. Natives may need little; food crops more. Benefits: drainage, water-holding, aeration, nutrients.

5. Water Efficiently

Smart clocks, soil moisture sensors, rain shut-off sensors save water, time, money. Water only when needed, not on a rigid schedule.

6. Organic Mulch (3 Inches)

Reduces evaporation, stabilizes temperature, slows erosion/compaction, suppresses weeds. Adds color/texture—include in planning.

7. Appropriate Maintenance

Proper watering, weeding, fertilizing, irrigation monitoring—keeps landscape beautiful and conserves water.

Xeriscape: a framework, not a formula. Apply the principles; the garden will thrive on less.