Golf Engineering Associates Technical Help - Public Education Series

Xeriscape is a style of landscaping and irrigation which minimizes
water use through careful design and plant selection.

• Careful landscape design.

• Strategic placement and minimization of turf areas.

• Efficient, well-planned irrigation systems.

• Soil improvements.

• Use of mulches, gravel, decomposed granite and rock.

• Utilization of low water use plant materials.

• Regular maintenance of plants and irrigation system.

Xeriscaping is not just for the Desert! Anywhere on Earth where saving drinking water is a priority, Xeriscape can be used. South Florida is a "hot spot" for Xeriscape even though they have more than enough water to go around. Some of the benefits of Xeriscape in any climate:

• Less turf = less fertilizer, less mowing.
• Substantial water bill savings.
• Less water means less weeds.
• Low water use plants are easier to maintain than other plant types.
• Distinctive design look -- out of the ordinary -- something different.
• Screen plantings can lower outside/inside temperature of buildings.
• Xeriscape plants are naturally tough; can thrive with bad site conditions.

Other Ways We Can All Conserve Water

• Adjust your irrigation timer for each season: less in Winter, more in Summer.
• Check all pipes and faucets for leaks; inside and out.
• Turn off water while brushing teeth or shaving instead of letting it run.
• Use dishwashers and clothes washers only when full.
• Avoid using toilet as an ashtray or wastebasket.
• Placing a one-quart bottle of water inside the toilet tank can save 5 gallons a day.
• Don't spend all day long in the shower!
• Mulch in and around plants reduces evaporation.
• Keep a pool cover on your swimming pool.
• Use a hose with a shut off nozzle when washing cars.
• Use a blower or broom to clean drives and steps, not the hose.
• Always water during the early morning hours, 1 to 5 a.m.
• Adjust sprinklers so that driveways, walks, etc., aren't being watered.
• Fix Your Leaks Right Away!