Xeriscaping yard

3po3
by 3po3
I am trying to replace almost all of my lawn with xeriscaping (and a playground) - an attractive combination of low-water, native plants. The previous owners made a good start on the project, and I am slowly finishing it.
*Options I considered for this project:
I am trying to figure out the best combination of plants for the site. I think I am going to consult with the city xeriscape expert next spring to get a solid design.
*Questions and unexpected events that arose during the project:
WEEDS. I laid down thick layers of newspapers and pine mulch to smother the lawn and create a foundation for the front patch of my new xeriscape garden. However, the lawn's cursed bindweed found a way to snake through all the layers of newspaper and peek out. I have pulled out bindweed with a green end on top of my mulch, a root in the grass and at least a foot of white stem snaking through the newspaper in between.
*My motivation to do this project:
To save water and create a more attractive, native yard.
*Project Steps:
1. Last year, I built a patio in front of the house, then moved all the displaced dirt to the back yard to smother some lawn and expand a small area of existing xeriscape in the back yard.
2. This spring, I planted a red yucca and moved a couple of mystery shrubs from the side of the house.
3. This summer, I put down a bunch newspaper and mulch all over the front yard.
4. Next spring, I will meet with a xeriscape consultant from the city and make a plan for the front space. I will plant a bunch of new stuff there.
Advice:
I've been pretty much winging it, which I don't recommend. I look forward to creating a solid overall plan with the help of the city xeriscape guru.
Materials:
Red yucca - $30.00
Rocks to surround front garden - $50.00
Pine mulch - $40.00
The front xeriscape area - a blank mulchy slate waiting for a solid spring planting plan.
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  • 3po3 3po3 on Oct 10, 2010
    Anyone have any suggestions for low-maintenance, low water plants that are attractive and a little unusual.
  • Sheryl S Sheryl S on Mar 17, 2013
    I'm planting ornamental grasses & native or adapted ground covers & flowers. Mulching heavily and having killed all grasses & weeds with Glyphosate. Hopefully being able to start planting in a week or so after confirming that all the weeds have died. I will rake only enough to get the dead debri off and not to uncover new weed & grass seeds. Low water and no mow slope is my aim. Wish me luck as I do the same for you !!
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