Water-Wise Gardening

Super Soil

The final step for conserving water is to work with your soil before planting. Adding organic matter, such as compost, lends nutrients and structure to the soil, increasing its water-holding capability. Plants and grass should be fertilized only as needed. Over-fertilizing causes excessive growth, leading to weak and thirsty plants. Most landscape plants require fertilization only twice each year.

6 Water-Wise Principles of Xeriscape
• Planning and design
• Low water-use plants
• Appropriate turf areas
• Efficient irrigation
• Soil improvements
• Appropriate maintenance