Xeriscape comes from the root words xeric and scape. Xeric means characterized by or adapted to extremely dry habitat. This term for ‘dryland landscaping’ was established by the Denver Water company in the early 1980’s. This technique can reduce water usage, soil erosion, maintenance costs, and maintenance time. These plants will also attract butterflies, native wildlife and beneficial insects. This is an ideal technique for South Dakota’s semi-arid climate.

The plants used in xeriscaping are native or adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. They can tolerate heat and drought. Plant leaves are often narrow, small or succulent. Many of the plants have silvery colored foliage or leaves with spines or hairs.  They have deep root systems that allow them to tolerate drought conditions.

There are many great plants that will add interest, color and texture to your space. Some perennials include yarrow (Achillea millefolium), curly onion (Allium senescens), hen-and-chicks (Sempervivum), poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrate), purple prairie clover (Dalea purpurea), purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), prairie smoke (Geum triflorum), blue flax (Linum perenne), evening primrose (Oenothera macrocarpa), penstemon (Penstemon grandiflorus) and prairie coneflower (Ratibida columnifera).

Ornamental grass choices include switch grass (Panicum virgatum), Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans), blue oatgrass (Helictrotrichon sempervirens), big blue stem (Andropogon gerardii), silver feather grass (Miscanthus sp.), little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) and prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis). Woody plants work in xeriscape as well. Some possible options include juniper, lilac, potentilla, spirea, bur oak and hackberry.

Be sure to select plants that are hardy in South Dakota, rated zone 4 or less. Conduct a soil test prior to planting to determine if amendments or organic matter are needed or if the pH is high and certain species need to be avoided.

The plants should be grouped by their water usage.  They will likely need to be watered regularly during establishment. Irrigate in the early morning from 4 a.m.-10 a.m., and if possible use drip irrigation and a 2-3” mulch layer to help retain the water. Since the plants used in a xeriscape garden have a low water requirement, after establishment they may only need supplemental irrigation in a drought situation.

Xeriscape gardens are low maintenance. With the use of perennial plants, time spent on annual planting is eliminated. Removing weeds is important, especially during the first year before the plants fill the space. Mulch will need to be reapplied as it decomposes. The perennials may need to be thinned or divided every few years. The plants should be pruned down during the dormant season, prior to the return of new growth in the spring.

The creative design work of a xeriscape garden will allow you to decrease your water usage while having a beautiful garden. The added benefits of lower maintenance time and costs make this technique even more appealing.