Chapter 1

Developing a Plan

 

1 - Set a Budget. When you know how much you want to spend, you'll be prepared to choose your landscape elements accordingly. Itemize your list and always plan for incidentals. If a pipe breaks during the construction process, or an area looks sparse and you want to add more plants, you'll know you have a reserve for unexpected expenses.

 

2 - Take a Drive. Drive around the uninhabited areas where you live and take photographs of the plants you like. You can also get ideas by checking out other landscapes in your area and online.

 

3 - Visit Local Nurseries. Be sure to bring a notebook and your photographs with you. Ask the nursery personnel to show you drought tolerant plants. Most of the plants are in one or five gallon containers. To get an idea of what the plants will look like when they mature, look at the ones in the nursery that have matured. A plant that is in a small container might fit into your design now, but knowing how big it will get in the future will ensure you give it the space it needs.

 

While you're at the nursery, take a look at the types of mulch. There are many choices, from rubber to crushed or decomposed granite, rock, bark, recycled glass, and several types of soil. Rubber is a new design product and becoming very popular due to the fact that it won't disintegrate - go into the ground and need to be replaced.

 

One of the most common elements in a xeriscape landscape is decomposed granite or DG. DG looks like really small, crushed rocks in a reddish-brown color. As it breaks down in the landscape, it sparkles in the sun. Crushed granite is another good choice for xeriscaping. The rocks are bigger than DG and resemble gravel. Make a note of the prices. Shop around before you buy your ground cover. Rock and stone dealers might be able to offer you a better price than the nursery. If you're ordering a large amount of cover, it's easy to have it delivered. If you spend a good amount of money at the nursery or the rock yard, ask for free delivery. You might not get it, but it doesn't hurt to ask.

 

4 - Make a List. Make a list of the plants you like and use categories to get it organized. On a piece of paper, create 5 columns. Write the name of the plant in the first column, the color in the next column, the blooming season, the amount of sunlight required, and any notes you want in the last column (i.e. cost, height at maturity, attracts hummingbirds, deer-proof, attracts butterflies, etc.).