Replacing Bluegrass with Xeriscape Plants to Save Water

If keeping your lawn green has become a chore and is hurting your water bill, you might want to consider replacing your traditional xeriscape plants. Over the long run, your yard will require much less water and be more resistant to extreme conditions, like drought. For people who live in arid to semi-arid climates, this is often a smart option.

What is Xeriscape?

To xeriscape, you have the option of replacing your existing plants with native plants and grasses that are more likely to thrive in the local climate. A good ground cover grass to use in a semi-arid climate is buffalo grass. It requires much less water than blue grass, and once established will be just as green and lush.

Plan Your Yard

Before beginning your xeriscape project, it is best to make a plan for your yard. Find out what plants are native to your area and climate. Determine how much grass you really need to have and where ideal spots for other native plants are. Base your choices on sun exposure, drainage, and water availability. Then determine the best type of mulch to protect your new plants, based on cost and availability. Then decide on an effective and conservative watering method to keep your yard beautiful and low maintenance for years to come.