A Plug for Eco-Landscaping or Xeriscaping

Here in Texas, we are in a severe drought and have had more days of 100°F+ temperatures than I can remember.

However, here is a picture of our front yard: local trees—cedars, water oak, winged elm, replanted as babies from other parts of our property—and lots of naturally present yaupon.

Using local plants for landscaping saves water and energy. Consider it for your home. Xeriscaping is the term for landscaping that greatly reduces the need for extra watering. Since climate patterns appear to be changing, xeriscaping is more and more important.

Although our “grass” is brown, as soon as it rains, the natural grasses and wildflowers will green right up. Look at the trees—green, lush without watering.

Yaupon bushes (I’ll talk more about them in the next blog) take center stage. Although it’s difficult to tell, the yaupon in the middle of the photo are more than 10 feet high. And in the fall, the female plants sport bright red berries. I’ve discussed yaupon before, but I’ve had input from readers that I want to share next time.