Irrigating Efficiently in your Xeriscape

Keys to watering cycles.

Calylophus serrulatus
Item # 28935 		Calylophus serrulatus
Dwarf Sundrops

each $5.49
3 to 6 plants $5.29
7 or more $4.99
  • Topics: Watering, Xeriscaping
  • Author: Mary Ann Walz
  • Keywords: watering, deep watering, irrigation, irrigating,, Garden Tips, gardens, xeric, xeriscaping, xeriscapes
  • Date: July 2005

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You’ve created a xeriscape design, selected appropriate plants, improved the soil and purchased mulch. Now, even though you have drought tolerant plants, watering your new garden is a critical step to insure its success.

The first year when plants are getting established, you may think you’re not doing much to conserve water. But new plantings need water more frequently than established ones.

Keys to Watering

The answer to irrigating a xeriscape garden is to water deeply and less frequently. This can be accomplished most easily with a drip irrigation system. The drip system can be set to water individual plants, shrubs, or trees. The water requirements of the plants can be met by using different sized emitters, and by placing several emitters on large shrubs or trees.

  • While a drip system is really nice, it’s not essential.
  • Soaker hoses work great and if well placed can water your whole garden. They can be hidden underneath mulch.
  • Hand watering is another option, but make sure the water is penetrating deeply.
  • The final way to irrigate is with a sprinkler. Make sure the spray hits all areas and that you leave it on long enough to water deeply.

“Rules” for Watering

  • Water should soak in deep enough so all roots are thoroughly wet. The first few times you water, test to see how deep it goes. After a few tries, you’ll know how long the water needs to run.
  • Always water during the cooler parts of the day to lessen evaporation.
  • Make sure you mulch.
  • Plant densely enough so plant roots are not overheated by the sun.

As your xeriscape garden matures and the plants become well established, you’ll be able to cut back on the frequency of watering.