Recently, xeriscape gardening has been spreading roots to other areas of the country where homeowners are finding the ease of a low maintenance garden appealing. There is a misconception that xeriscaping consists of prickly cactus-like plants intermingled with rocks. Most good xeriscape designs are more concerned with proper irrigation and water use reduction than eliminating water use altogether.

The core idea is to mix low water use plants with a few carefully chosen areas of irrigation. Rather than having a large lawn, it would save water to have a smaller lawn bordered by low water plants and flowers. The result can be a colorful array of plant species that require little maintenance. It is not necessary to have only indigenous plants when planning a xeriscape design. Irises, roses and tulips are examples of plants that will thrive in a dry garden.

Following are a few examples of plants that are appropriate for xeriscape gardens:

• Lavender
• Mount Atlas Daisy (ground cover)
• Lamb's Ears
• Oriental Poppy
• Yarrow
• Purple Coneflower (Echinacea)
• Dusty Miller
• Black Eyed Susan
• Indian Paintbrush (Celosia)
• Spirea
• Columbine

One of the pleasures of xeriscape gardening is knowing you can leave your garden, even in a time of drought or extreme heat, and it will still be alive when you return.

-- Tips courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com