There’s More to Xeriscape Than Gravel

In his June 7 letter “Who Wants More Dry Desert,” Leland T. “Tom” Taylor made some incorrect observations on contemporary xeriscaping. Xeriscaping embodies the principle of water conservation through creative landscaping. It’s possible to have a lush garden with far less maintenance than a traditional garden of blue grass lawn and water-intensive plants. While xeriscaping promotes the use of native, drought-tolerant vegetation, one can add a number of nonnatives such as iris, roses and daffodils that do well here in Albuquerque. You don’t have to have a yard of gravel and a few cacti. All one has to do is visit a local plant nursery to see the vast variety of plants that are drought tolerant and will thrive here.

Properly planned xeriscapes have zones requiring different watering needs, enabling quite a varied landscape. The garden doesn’t have to be lawn-less to be xeric, but it can be “less lawn” and still suit the needs of the homeowner. A properly done xeric garden adds value to a residence and enhances not just the curb appeal, but also the livability of the entire property.

A solid plastic membrane shouldn’t be used, as it does prevent water absorption into the garden. There are a variety of mulches that can be employed that add color, texture and interest as well as inhibit weed growth. Unfortunately there are too many examples of “zero scapes” in Albuquerque that are the bane of Mr. Taylor — but it needn’t be that way.

The members of the Xeric Garden Club of Albuquerque, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting landscapes that not only conserve water but also use it as efficiently as possible in the most creative ways possible, invite Mr. Taylor to attend one of its meetings to learn more. The club meets monthly with garden tours, demonstrations and speakers. We hope to see you there!

JANET TANI

Public Relations Xeric Garden Club of Albuquerque

Albuquerque