An attractive yard that is landscaped with vegetation that reduces water use is going to be a healthy option for the environment, especially during a drought. As you are planning your yard's new landscaping, there are many ideas you can utilize to conserve water and protect your property and its soil. The following recommendations provide you with some insight into planning your yard's landscaping to be drought-tolerant and water-conserving.
Work on Your Soil's Composition
The soil in your yard's bedding areas and garden where you will be planting vegetation needs to be of good quality so that it can hold in the moisture that you provide it. Soil that contains a lot of clay is not going to hold in moisture and the plants growing within the soil will struggle in the heat. Likewise, soil that is sandy and does not contain a large number of organic materials will allow the water to quickly drain. When your plants are growing during a drought and extreme heat, you want the water to remain in the soil and hydrate your plants for as long as possible.
For this reason, look at adding organic materials to your soil, such as compost and manure. This material is going to combine with the soil that is already present and it will hold in moisture. The organic materials are also going to decompose over time, adding back nutrients that your plants need for healthy growth and sustained health.
Reduce Your Lawn Area
The amount of lawn that you plan for your yard is going to affect how much water your yard is going to need. Unless you plan to plant your yard with a drought-resistant lawn, such as Zoysia, your yard's water needs are going to be high during the hottest part of the summer. Instead, look at reducing the size of your lawn or planting it between various bedding areas that you have managed with water-wise options.
You can also look at planting clover on your lawn, which is a green ground cover that requires very little water or leaving the soil open for native grasses and other plants that can also go without a lot of water. Check into your local area's native vegetation and options available with local nurseries. You can also inquire at your local University extension office for some great recommendations or check with a local landscaper for recommendations.
For more information, contact a company such as C & J Landscaping.