Pros and Cons of Xeriscaping
Written by webtechs

Pros and Cons of Xeriscaping

Xeriscape landscaping is a sustainable design strategy with water-wise principles, drought-tolerant foliage, and lawn options like rocks, mulch, or gravel. Presently this kind of design is becoming more and more favorable since education concerning the environment is stepping up to a higher degree.

Pros of Xeriscaping

Below are the Pros of Xeriscaping

Little to No Irrigation

Decreasing environmental footprint should be a priority for all of us therefore water conservation needs to be implemented into every landscape design. That is precisely what xeriscaping is intended to do. Drought tolerant foliage with pebbles or mulch as a groundcover rather than grass is going to save a lot of water. Drip irrigation systems are suggested considering their capability to effectively deliver water and nutrients straight to the plant roots.

Eye Pleasing

Xeriscaping might be thought of as boring but appropriate plant selection and design can lead to excellent results. Choices are limitless with a lot of different types of succulents, flowy decorative grasses, blooming perennials, and shrubs in addition to a number of palm and tree species. Combinations of diverse textures of foliage and rocks bring interest every year.

Variability

Whereas xeriscaping is usually achieved in dryer climates it doesn’t mean that it can’t thrive in other areas as well. Try utilizing this method in stubborn areas of your yard where other plants don’t display their total potential. Be careful to select native and non-invasive species, speak with a landscape architect, and verify for any special requirements that your city might have.

Maintenance

One of the main reasons why people ask for this kind of design is because it provides low maintenance. Drought-tolerant plants require less pruning because they grow a lot slower, don’t require costly fertilizers, and their ability to resist diseases and pests makes them an ideal candidate for your yard. With people’s busy everyday plans, having a reduced-maintenance garden is a bonus. A lot of people would prefer to spend quality time with their friends and family instead of taking care of the lawn each weekend.

Frugal

The up-front investment in a good design and foliage material could be higher but when considered towards the future it is going to save you a lot of money through lower upkeep and reduced water bills. You aren’t going to have to spend money on costly contractor services particularly if the designed area isn’t that big, go online and look for some videos on how to put down gravel and plant plants on your own. The outcome is going to be much more rewarding, and you are going to learn new skills.

Cons of Xeriscaping

Below are the Pros of Xeriscaping

No Lawn

Lawns need a lot of water for irrigating, so it is a BIG NO when xeriscaping. For a lot of people, this could be a significant downside because many appreciate the look of a recently mowed lawn and wish to use it for relaxing, physical activities, or as a play area for children. Devise a list of the advantages and disadvantages of a lawn and decide if it is going to be a wise investment or just a spontaneous purchase.

Invasive

Xeriscaping might not be thought of as the most environmentally friendly design since the focus is shifted from native plants to drought-tolerant ones. Every native plant is not drought tolerant but is vital for ecosystem self-reliance. Creating an imbalance in the environment is going to impact diversity causing the spreading of invasive species, reduced insect pollination, and malfunction of natural processes.

Inappropriate For Children

A lot of succulents grow thorns and sharp leaves that can be a hazard for small children, and adults alike. Rough ground covers like blocky rocks that have sharp edges could be rough on their tiny feet, so be sure to use pea gravel rather than cinder rocks. From an early age, children should find out about plants and which ones are safe and which ones are not safe for them. Passing the time getting in touch with nature is truly important for children’s growth and development.

High Initial Costs

Initial stages of landscape installation could require a lot of time and money, particularly if you need to excavate the existing landscape. Additionally, gravel and rocks are harder to transport and more costly at first than a conventional lawn.

Lastly, the best option is to begin small, start with a test with a limited xeriscape area in your yard to follow the growth and outcomes. A good alternative to all xeriscapes would be to retain the backyards lushness and green, where at the same time carrying out a water-wise design in the front yard.

Landscaping Materials Phoenix by A&A Materials, Inc.

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers Landscaping Materials for your landscaping needs. Call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

Xeriscaping
Written by webtechs

What is Xeriscaping?

Xeriscaping or zeroscaping is terminology that was invented by Denver Water in the early eighties. It stems from the Greek preface xero, meaning “dry”. As a result, xeriscaping refers to a kind of low-water landscaping that has few or no plants. The practice is associated with water-conserving landscaping methods, and to drought-resistant landscaping. With more and more area throughout the world encountering droughts, landscapes with a decreased need for irrigation are an interesting road to explore.

Theoretically, a xeriscaped landscape needs little to possibly no water outside the water that the natural environment provides. In drier areas of the western US, like Denver, water is already thought of to be a limited and often costly resource. People are encouraged to restrict the use of drinking water to nourishment instead of irrigation.

The method of xeriscaping has environmental and monetary benefits. It comprises of vegetation that is suitable for the climate and is going to flourish with little additional irrigation, making it drought-resistant. Typically, xeriscaping means replacing current grass lawns with mulch, soil, or rocks, and native plant specimens. These include items such as cacti and flowers such as daffodils. There are also classes of plants that have adapted to dry climates, alleged xerophytes.

Why Xeriscaping is Important!

Adjusting to this sustaining practice not only decreases the amount of water that goes to waste, but it can reduce your water bill. Properties that choose to xeriscape have been seen to save an estimated a hundred and twenty gallons of water a day. With the extra money, you can buy even more xeriscaping items!

Xeriscaping is a perfect way to care for the planet and your community’s general water supply. You can help by water conservation and create a flourishing landscape that is going to never be devoid of aesthetic beauty. It’s the best of the two worlds. You are helping the environment and at the same time creating a visually pleasing and easily maintained landscape!

Fast Key Facts

  • This kind of landscaping is a straightforward idea in reference to low-water landscaping, and the term was initially conceived in the early eighties.
  • At least forty states in the US might face freshwater insufficiencies by 2024.
  • Only around three percent of the Earth’s water is freshwater.
  • About thirty to sixty percent of all household water is used outside, mainly for irrigating lawns and gardens.
  • Xeriscaping can save around fifty percent of water used outside compared to traditional landscaping.
  • By decreasing water usage, xeriscaping saves money on monthly water bills.
  • This kind of landscaping can increase property values by up to fifteen percent.
  • This kind of landscaping costs around $5 per sq ft to $20 per sq ft but is going to save more money eventually as compared to traditional lawns.

Landscaping Materials Scottsdale, Arizona

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers mulch and wood chips for your landscaping or gardening needs. Contact us or call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

Cost Of Xeriscaping
Written by Brian B

Xeriscaping Cost

The nationwide average cost of xeriscaping a typical 1,200 sq. ft. yard is $17,085. Costs can range from $6,000-$24,000 depending on the overall size of the project, according to Fixr.

Average Xeriscaping Installation Costs

This is look at average xeriscaping installation costs across the U.S. in 2022:

  • National Average Cost: $17,085.
  • Average Cost Range: $16,000-$18,000.
  • Minimum Cost: $6,000.
  • Maximum Cost: $24,000.

Xeriscaping Cost

Cost To Xeriscape A Yard

The exact price of xeriscaping a yard will be based on a few factors, including plant choices, size of the yard, soil, irrigation and hardscaping. Hiring a designer to help plan the project ahead of time is a good idea, but it will add to the bottom line. Total costs can be determined by the 7 steps of xeriscaping detailed below.

Planning And Design

An experienced landscape designer may charge up to $200 to plan out your xeriscaping needs. This is a very difficult process, so careful planning ahead of time is essential.

  • Average Cost: $200.

Mulch

When used in xeriscaping projects, mulch helps to hold in water and prevent evaporation. A typical delivery costs between $200-$500 for a 500 sq. ft. yard.

  • Average Cost: $685.

Concrete Slabs

Forming a walkway in your yard with concrete slabs can be pricey, but it will undoubtedly give your yard a unique look.

  • Average Cost: $1,200.

Desert Plants

You must make sure to get plants that are well adapted to the region. This means they will require minimal water. Prices will range depending on the type and size of the plants.

  • Average Cost: $3,000.

Soil, Rocks And Stones

The largest cost for soil, rocks and stones will come from the delivery. 20 sq. ft. of river rock can cost up to $1,000 to deliver.

  • Average Cost: $3,000.

Turf

It’s recommended to replace natural grass with turf in an effort to conserve water.

  • Average Cost: $4,000.

Irrigation System

An irrigation system will be optional for xeriscaping projects, with most homeowners relying on rainfall. Those living in extremely hot climates, though, should invest in irrigation systems.

  • Average Cost: $5,000.

Xeriscaping Cost Per Square Foot

These costs are usually calculated by square footage, with the price including plants, supplies and labor. Costs will typically range from $5-$20 per sq. ft.

  • 500 sq. ft. Average Cost: $5,500-$7,500.
  • 1,000 sq. ft. Average Cost: $11,000-$15,000.
  • 1,500 sq. ft. Average Cost: $16,500-$22,500.

Xeriscaping Cost Per Hour

Most professional landscaping services will cost between $50-$100 per hour, with a high of $200.

  • Average Cost: $75/hour.

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers native compost for your landscaping needs. Call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.