Above are two good examples of what is NOT xeriscape.
Xeriscape usually means less lawn area. Xeriscapedoes not mean only hot and dry, many times quite the opposite.
Xeriscape is not just a lot of rocks and gravel. Xeriscapecan be lush and colorful.
Xeriscape is certainly not only yucca and cacti.

"Fundamentals of a Xeriscape"

· Many people confuse ZERO-scape with Xeriscape. ZERO-scape is perhaps what most people have in mind when you speak of low water use landscapes. Images of vast seas of gravel with one forlorn tree and maybe a boulder or two. Xersicape can be lush and colorful. A properly planned garden will feel and look like an oasis in the desert and still be waterwise. Xeriscape is pronounced "zir i scape". Derived from the Greek word Xeros, meaning dry, and "scape" coming from landscape.

· PLANNING AND DESIGN: A good landscape must start with a good plan. Consider the obvious to start. What type of soil does the site have, exposure to sun and what existing vegetation are you working with. How much maintenance are you willing to put into the finished product? Are there certain views that you may not want to obscure or possibly there is something you would like to screen from view?

· ZONING OF PLANTS: Remember to group plants of similar water needs together. It becomes difficult to properly water a plant when the neighboring plants have different water requirements.

· MULCHES: Mulches reduce the amount of water needed on the landscape because it reduces evaporation and assist in keeping the soil cool.

· SOIL AMENDMENTS: Much of the soil in the Rocky Mountain region is quite poor in nutrients in combination with soil that is quite sandy or clay. Either way, composting and adding organic matter will help the soil properly absorb and retain water, as well as adding to the nutrient value of the soil. While many plants will appreciate this, there are some plants that do not need such amendments and will thrive without it.

·EFFICENT IRRIGATATION: A properly designed and installed irrigation system will reduce the amount of water the landscape demands.

· PROPER LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE: Mowing at the correct height, fertilizing when needed, reduction of weeds and pestilence and annual pruning when needed. Painted Desert Landscaping was just recently recognized by Green Co. of Colorado as a company that consistently implements the "Best Management Practices" Painted Desert Landscaping is committed to our customers and the environment.