Xeriscaping is a type of landscaping or gardening that reduces or eliminates the need for irrigation. A lawn requires a huge amount of water, fertilizer, and attention to keep it lush and green. With the possibility of draught-like conditions in Calgary this year there are great alternatives to having a lawn. You might want to consider removing a portion or all of your grass and replacing it with Xeriscaping.

There are a variety of plants and shrubs that do not require much water and can be a great substitute for grass especially if the yard only acts as a focal point; like many front yards in Calgary. There are lots of colourful perennial flowers that bloom at different times. Sun-loving plants like Peonies, Salvia, Coneflowers, Blackeye Susan, as well as sun-loving grasses like Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass or Blue Fescue can add definition and interest to the yard. Or shade-loving plants like Hostas, Astilbe, or Soloman’s Seal that do fairly well under evergreen trees. Or add fruiting bushes like gooseberry and honeyberry to create more height and coverage. There are many options to fill your yard with other interesting plants that require less water.

Installing a rain barrel and using the water collected from the rain will also reduce water usage and your utility bills! Consider the possibilities! You can find more information about this at
www.greencalgary.org/garden.