How to go through systematic steps to DIY your xeriscaping project
Designing your own landscape might seem daunting, but it’s actually quite feasible with a little planning and creativity. Xeriscaping is a type of landscaping that reduces the need for supplemental water from irrigation, making it especially suitable for regions suffering from water shortage or drought conditions. Although this approach originated in arid areas, its principles can be adapted to various regions and climates. Here are some simple, repeatable steps, that can help in developing a systemic process to tackle any xeriscaping project.
1. Map the land
Start by determining the scope of the project by mapping the land that you are planning on including in the project. You can simply use a tape measure to calculate the dimensions of the property. It’s best to chart these measurements on some paper, digital notes, or an iPad. The preferred method from many landscape architects is to sketch these measurements onto graph paper (10 squares per inch) and create a calculation to keep your measurements and initial mapping to size. Also, consider and take into account the existing slope, trees, existing landscaping, water runoff pathways, etc.
2. Determine your theme
Now that you’ve got your map of measurements and have considered the existing elements of the project scope and property, you can bring to sketch your plan. But first, you have to determine your theme. What’s the story or drama of your project? Is it about gathering? Highlighting a view? Creating a centerpiece? Functionally saving water? Going native on your plants? This thematic story will guide your decisions.
3. Sketch your plan
Once you’ve got your story, you can begin to sketh a plan. Consider both form and function. A plan that overemphasizes form, such as just considering the plants you want but not pathways or spaces for entertainment, may fall short of the impact and potential of your project. Similarly, a solely functional project may not carry the beauty that’s possible through xeriscaping. We recommend starting with function, including pathways and entertainment gathering spaces, water runoff, slope, and remaining elements in the project space. From there, it will create some confinements and boundaries for your format, beginning with the form of your functional components and moving into adding plants, hardscaping, and decor.
4. Choose your hero
The foundation of a cohesive landscape design lies in maintaining a balance and theme to establish a visual story. Landscapes filled with random assortments of plants often lack visual harmony. We recommend starting with a hero for your project. This hero could be picking a favorite tree, centering your design around a functional gathering space,
began by picking a favorite tree, three preferred shrubs, and a couple of beloved succulents, as this was a xeriscaping project. Your choices will depend on your location and local climate.
While I lean towards a native desert theme, any landscape theme is possible. The “theme” plants should collectively contribute to the look you’re aiming for.
5. Incorporate hills, hardscape, and walkways
The circular drive was a predetermined element. I then incorporated a dry creek bed, a walkway to the side gate, a few hills, and an informal courtyard near the main entrance.
6. Position plants onto design
Incorporate plants into the design while keeping aesthetics and practical concerns in mind. Avoid aligning trees in a straight line, consider areas where shade is needed, be mindful of root growth, and strive for a natural look. Group shrubs in clusters of odd numbers, which typically look best. Notice how professional landscapes use a variety of plants but always in repeating clusters. Don’t hesitate to imitate planting ideas from other gardens!
Bushes should be used liberally to create a lush landscape; aim for three times as many bushes as trees if space allows. We finally added succulents, given their smaller size, they were positioned for visibility from the front and along the walkways.
7. Organize a watering system
Whether you already have an irrigation system in place or are planning to build one, it’s crucial to plan ahead considering the water requirements of your plants and the capabilities of your irrigation system. For our project, we placed the entire front yard on one watering schedule, so all the plants there had similar water needs. You’ll need to tailor this step to your climate and the specific water needs of your plants.
8. Construct from the ground up
Begin with installing irrigation lines, followed by constructing hills and hardscape elements like cement features, fences, or gravel walkways. Significant hills might require a small tractor or bobcat and some extra fill dirt. Plant installation is the next step, with decorative rock added last.
9. Procure plants and plant in stages
If you’re working with a large property, consider planting in stages to gauge how the plants acclimate. Especially since, in my experience, a well-planned landscape is lush with plants. Begin with your trees and a section of shrubs, then observe how they handle seasonal changes – they might require extra watering in the first summer. If a plant doesn’t seem to thrive, it’s preferable to lose a few than many due to environmental stress. Succulents can be temperamental during the establishment phase, often prone to sunburn or rotting from overwatering.
10. Install rock and final touches
Once your plants are successfully established and thriving, it’s time to add landscape rock, boulders, potted plants, furniture, and enjoy the visits from local wildlife.
Remember, even the most gorgeous landscape needs ongoing maintenance, which might include checking water lines, pruning, or potentially replacing or relocating a plant. However, I adore xeriscaping as it creates a lush oasis with little water and care, adapting to the natural beauty of the local environment.
