Agrotechnology

Xeriscaping A new concept in landscaping

International Conference on Agricultural & Horticultural Sciences

September 14-15, 2012 Hyderabad International Convention Centre, India

Pavithra C.B, Geeta Biradar and Vinaya Kumar Reddy P

Posters: Agrotechnol

Abstract:

Landscapes add value, beauty and livability to our homes and keeping them water wise is a critical part of being a good steward. Water has become a critical issue for the future prosperity of the generations to come, booming populations have increased the demand on the worlds already limited supply of high-quality water. In addition, seasonal fluctuations in rainfall and periodic droughts create a feast-to-famine cycle. In urban areas, about 25 percent of the water supply is used to water landscapes and gardens. In the summer, as much as 60 percent of the water the average household uses may be for landscape maintenance. Many traditional landscapes require large amounts of water, and much of this water is applied inefficiently.Xeriscaping and Xerogarden - ing refer to landscaping and gardening in ways that reduce or eliminate the need for supplemental irrigationand also one of the best tool in landscaping.Xeriscape utilizes native plants or plants that are native to a similar environment and requires minimal inputs (i.e. fertilizer, pesticides, maintenance, etc.)and also is aesthetically pleasing and functional. It is promoted in areas that do not have easily accessible supplies of freshwater, and is gaining acceptance in other areas as climate patterns shift.By adopting xeriscaping, from design-to ongoing maintenance, not only one can plan a gorgeous landscape for home or business, but also it can be done in a low impact, sustainable way. Less water, less maintenance, less chemicals, less run-off, less energy use, less worry. These are just some of the benefits that can allow more time to enjoy the many amenities of this region besides misconceptions of no lawns, rocks/dry landscaping only.