Local Knowledge About Plants

Select plants that require a minimal amount of supplemental watering. Most Xeriscape plants will need no supplemental watering after an establishment period, unless there is an extreme drought. The establishment period after installation may require from 18 to 24 months. Almost any plant can be used in a Xeriscape landscape if grouped according to its water needs. Annual and exotic plantings can be located in small, easily accessible areas to make maintenance easier. Irrigation can then be zoned according to plant water needs to make efficient irrigation possible. Avoid planting large numbers of only one plant species, which can create a monoculture susceptible to pest or insect problems. Buy from reputable suppliers and nurseries. Well-established plant suppliers know the exact sources of their plant materials. Information on where plants are nursery-grown or field-dug should be available.