Dreaming of a lounge-worthy, low maintenance landscape? A xeriscape may be the answer. Just keep these seven principles in mind. Coined in 1981 by Denver Water, xeriscape (xeris is Greek for dry) refers to combining a low maintenance landscape with low water use. A xeriscape is not rocks, decomposed granite, cactus, agaves, or rain barrels …

Just because you have an irrigation system doesn’t mean you have to use it. Hand watering with a hose uses fewer gallons per minute and targets only what truly needs water. Hand-watering is guaranteed to use a lot less water than your irrigation system. And it puts you more in touch with your plants and …

An eco-friendly landscape is more than just a tidy yard with minimal bare spots. It’s enticing to wildlife and thrifty with water. Picturesque and inviting, I can’t help but stop by a landscape proclaimed “Yard of the Month” to admire its beautiful details, can you? As Earth Day approaches, I’m reflecting on the positive impact …

For those new to our city — and for residents who may have forgotten — we’ve compiled answers to a few frequently asked questions about Stage 2 watering rules. It’s not even May yet, but rainfall has been well below annual averages and the temperatures continue to climb, causing the Edwards Aquifer level to drop …

If you’re watering just once a week with an irrigation system, don’t be surprised when your water bill doubles — or triples. Although we are currently in Stage 1 watering rules, don’t be fooled into thinking your bill will not increase significantly. Even once a week watering could double your water bill. Don’t believe me? …

First tip: native plants are the non-gardener’s dream come true. Have you ever tried to grow plants, but constantly kill them? Or maybe you love the idea of plants, but are fully aware you don’t have the time or attention span to do it properly? I’m not going to lie, I’ve done some abominable things …

Turns out it’s no contest, and the answer may surprise you. Read this before you put in that new lawn. Turf installation may be the single biggest water user in the lifetime of a residential property. Hands down, putting in a new lawn uses way more water than filling a swimming pool. Even in San …

Under Stage 1 rules, outdoor watering with a sprinkler or irrigation system is allowed only before 11 a.m. and after 7 p.m., one day per week. Unseasonably dry weather has lingered on for months now — triggering Stage 1 watering rules. SAWS has significantly diversified San Antonio’s water supplies. As a result, the Edwards Aquifer …

No maintenance and no watering necessary — these are just two reasons to embrace this beautifully tough perennial. One frequently asked question I get is how to get rid of oxalis and clover. While they appear similar and are often confused, neither poses a problem and, in fact, both are beneficial. Oxalis, or wood sorrel, …

When done correctly, pruning in springtime increases foliage, flowers and pollinators. Shortly, our flowering perennials such as salvia, penstemon, lantana, and esperanza will awaken from their winter slumber. Much like overgrown hair in need of a haircut, perennials need a good spring cleaning in the way of pruning. We do this for three reasons: appearance, …