*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