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Laramie receives less than 11 inches of precipitation per year.
It only makes sense to plant trees, shrubs, and grass that can
thrive in our semi-arid climate. Yet, conventional aesthetics
often determine what goes in our lawns. Trying to support high-water
use plants in a semi-arid climate squanders water resources that
are often stretched just serving basic human needs.
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Quick Links
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Conventional Lawns
Even if you have a bluegrass lawn, there are ways to reduce
the amount of water you use. These techniques are especially
important during drought, when lawn-watering restrictions are
the first line of defense against water shortages.
- Does the lawn need watering? Unless the grass blades are
curling or turning grey, then it probably doesn't need water.
- Water after sunset to reduce evaporation losses; between
midnight and 4 pm is best.
- Check your irrigation system for leaks and repair if needed.
- Make sure your system sprays droplets, not mist that can
easily be blown away.
- Make sure there is even spray coverage with no pavement overlap.
Try the "catch can" test!
- Use more efficient drip irrigation for trees and shrubs.
Place the system around the drip line for maximum benefit.
Your plants will develop deeper roots, grow faster, and be
less susceptible to disease as well.
Xeriscaping
Xeriscaping is landscaping that uses less water than conventional
systems. The harsh climate of Laramie at 7,000 + feet in elevation
with high winds and less than 11 inches of precipitation per
year demands hardy, low-water use plants. Xeriscaping can:
- Save money by reducing water use and maintenance costs
- Save time by reducing the time spent watering, fertilizing,
and mowing
- Create a beautiful, colorful, oasis-like landscape
- Attract birds, butterflies, insects, and other wildlife
Planning
List your needs. Are there views you want to preserve
or emphasize? How do you use your lawn? Where are the high traffic
areas? How much expertise and money do you have?
Sketch your lawn and house area and locate areas of high use, special
areas and views, etc. Keep in mind areas that receive the most sun or
wind. In general, evergreens should be located in the west to block winter
winds, while deciduous trees are good in the east. They shade and cool
the house in summer but let light and warmth into the house during winter.
The home's southern exposure should have low-lying shrubs, grasses, or
deciduous trees to let in the maximum amount of winter solar radiation.
Remove plants that don't fit your new design. Expand structures such
as decks or walkways if necessary.
Reduce the area of bluegrass. You can kill bluegrass by spraying with
Roundup or vinegar.
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Planting
Plant your xeriscape plants. Ask your nursery professional
if you need to make any soil improvements. Many xeric plants
prefer alkaline soils. If you are using native plants, you probably
won't have to do much beyond loosening the soil.
Mulch can be beneficial if your plants are spaced far enough apart that
bare ground is exposed. Mulching can hold water and prevent weed growth.
Small diameter gravel is especially useful in windy conditions. Don't
use too much gravel and rock, though, as these materials can absorb and
retain radiation, increasing the surrounding temperature and harming
nearby trees and plants.
If your plants are spaced so densely that they are touching and there
is not much ground showing, then the plants themselves form a protective
barrier against evaporation and weed growth. Mulch may not be necessary
in this situation.
Water newly planted grass, trees, and shrubs. Even xeric plants need
to be watered the first few years after planting. You can reduce watering
after two or three years..
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Resource
The Library
Garden at the Albany County Library at 709 Garfield Street
is an excellent demonstration area of xeriscaping. There are
also many good xeriscaping books in the library. A double-good
resource!
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