Question 2 of 21

What does xeriscaping mean?

... Xeriscaping often is mistaken for "zero landscaping," but it really is about using native plants, often those requiring the least amount of water. It's also about smart design, placement and maintenance to conserve water use.

Question 3 of 21

Where did the term xeriscape come from?

... At a 1981 meeting, Denver environmental planner Nancy Leavitt coined the term xeriscaping from the Greek word for dry, and scape for vista. The idea of landscaping to conserve water in dry regions had been around for some time, and its popularity began to grow in the warm and dry Southwest.

Question 4 of 21

Which state is the driest?

... Based on station measurements of precipitation averaged over a 30-year period, Nevada tops the list of driest states with an average of only 9.5 inches (24.13 centimeters) of precipitation a year. Several scattered areas in the Southwest -- and even spots of extreme northern Montana and Alaska -- receive only 0 to 8 inches (20.32 centimeters) of precipitation a year. For comparison, Louisiana receives about 60 inches (152.4 centimeters) a year.

Question 5 of 21

Can any plants live -- and especially flower -- with the kind of rainfall Nevada gets?

... There are many native plants that survive -- and thrive -- in dry climates. Trees such as native mesquites and even some evergreens, such as the carob tree, grow in desert climates. The Nevada Cooperative Extension Service lists shrubs, perennials, annuals and even herbs, fruit trees and vegetables that grow in the state's climate.

Question 6 of 21

What are xeriscaping water zones?

... You can section your yard into three zones to create a well-designed, xeriscaped lawn and make the best use of water and natural sun, heat and shade. Using the three zones -- mini-oasis, transition and arid -- can make for a more effective and appealing xeriscape.

Question 7 of 21

Where should you plant the most drought-tolerant plants in your landscape?

... It's best to plant the most drought-resistant plants in the arid zone, farthest from your home and out of active traffic areas. The low-watering zones use little to no extra irrigation, depending mostly on natural rainwater.

Question 8 of 21

In California, the typical lawn accounts for ________ of a household water bill.

... Rainfall varies all over the coastal state of California, and on average 50 percent of residents' water bills go to keeping their lawns and gardens lush.

Question 9 of 21

How does mulching help reduce water use?

... Mulching is one of the best things a gardener can do for a tree or plant. A thick layer of mulch cools the soil, and helps reduce weeds, both of which keep the plant healthier and probably in need of less water. It also helps keep water that you give the plant in the ground instead of evaporating into the air.

Question 10 of 21

Which of the following planting designs probably saves the most water?

... Gravel and cactus can add to water demands of other plants. Too much grass can use too much water, especially if it's not native to your area. The same goes for ornamental plants and trees. It's best to buy and plant native trees, grasses and ornamentals, so be careful when shopping at big box stores; they don't always consider local climates. The best combination, then, is gravel, with grass closer to the home or around a tree that uses more water, and some native ornamentals.

Question 11 of 21

How can you increase a plant's root depth?

... Infrequent but deep waterings help create deeper and stronger rooting systems for plants, and help them become more drought tolerant.

Question 12 of 21

When do plants need the most water?

... Plants need more water when you first plant them, and for a few days afterward until they become established. After that, water according to the directions provided by your nursery or check with local master gardeners or cooperative extension offices. Water in the morning -- to prepare the plant for the heat of the day. Overwatering also stresses a plant, so adding water to a stressed-looking plant can make it worse.

Question 13 of 21

What is the best type of cycle for efficiently watering grass?

... Most people overwater their lawns because sprinklers apply about 1.5 inches (3.81 centimeters) of water per hour, but the grass can only absorb about a half-inch (1.27 cm) per hour before it's saturated. Running sprinklers for a short cycle, an off cycle to allow the water to soak into the roots, then another short cycle, is the most efficient watering method.

Question 14 of 21

Albuquerque, N.M., is a high desert city that averages only ________ of rain in June.

... Albuquerque averages only 8.5 inches (21.6 centimeters) of rain and snow all year long and 0.6 inches (1.52 centimeters) in June. The city restricts watering from April 1 through October 31 each year. Residents and businesses cannot use sprinklers between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., the hottest and windiest times, when more water is likely to evaporate. Albuquerque also promotes xeriscaping.

Question 15 of 21

Which of these grasses needs the most water?

... Cool season grasses require the most water, and are great for areas that receive plenty naturally. That's why Kentucky bluegrass is named for a state that receives 40 to 50 inches (102 to 127 centimeters) of rain a year. In drier climates, homeowners have to add about a half-inch of supplemental water a few times a week to make it thrive. Bermuda is a warm-season grass, so it requires less water, but still needs more than Blue Grama, a native range grass that grows so well in arid climates that it's New Mexico's state grass.

Question 16 of 21

How can you conserve water in your vegetable garden?

... There are several strategies the Colorado State University Extension Office recommends: Check the soil first, and only water if it's dry about 4 inches (10 centimeters) down; plant in blocks instead of rows to create shade for roots; control weeds; and group plants with similar water needs together. Don't wait until vegetables wilt before watering. Bugs and disease will beat you to them.

Question 17 of 21

How many gallons of water could a 1,500 square-foot (139-square-meter) home collect in a rain barrel with just 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) of rainfall?

... You can collect up to 930 gallons (3,520 liters) on an average-sized house after just an inch of rain, or even more, depending on the type of roof your house has. Most commercial rain barrels hold about 60 gallons (227 liters) of water.

Question 18 of 21

What are other ways to harvest rainwater?

... You can use all of these water harvesting techniques, depending on the yard's design. Most require some combining of the natural landscape and planning or modification. For instance, underwater storage tanks can help prevent standing water after rain in low-lying areas, or you can use a dry river bed made of rocks to divert roof runoff to a nearby tree. Catchment areas, French drains and holding areas all help capture rain to water your lawn and plants.

Question 19 of 21

Why do many cacti have thorns?

... It's believed that the reason many plants in arid regions have evolved thorns is to protect any leaves or pads from being eaten by animals. Replacing the eaten portion of the plant would require the type of energy moisture provides. Still, many cacti display magnificent blooms, but usually only once a year.

Question 20 of 21

Does xeriscaping mean having no trees in the landscape?

... Xeriscaping is about Earth-friendly landscaping and using plants suitable to the local region. By selecting shade trees indigenous to your area and placing them wisely, you can save money on home energy from the tree's shade and water for the plants that benefit from its cover during hot times of the day.

Question 21 of 21

If you tear out your grass, but want to keep the cottonwood tree that's been in your landscape for years, how should you handle the new design?

... The tree roots have been getting their water from grass irrigation, and grow outward far from the tree and close to the ground. They'll need to be protected and will need water. Black plastic prevents weeds, but also stops air and water from reaching the roots. Use permeable landscaping fabric under gravel and add a few beds of low-water ornamental plants beyond the tree's branches; they can share water with the tree -- water from your rain barrel!

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