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46 <br /> 1) Careful planning and design <br /> 2) Appropriate, smaller lawn areas <br /> 3) Thorough soil preparation <br /> 4) Appropriate use of plant materials <br /> 5) Effective and efficient watering methods <br /> 6) Use of mulch on trees, shrubs, and flower beds <br /> 7) Proper landscape maintenance <br /> IMiicro hmates <br /> Microclimates are areas within the design that have environmental conditions that differ from <br /> adjacent areas, such as the cool, shady north side of a building. Other microclimates would <br /> include the hottest places in full sun on the south side of a building. Areas that receive more <br /> water, such as rainfall runoff from the roof or low spots that collect water, should also be noted. <br /> Microclimates influence plant selection. For example, cooler, shady areas on the north side of <br /> buildings are a good environment for shade-loving plants. Some plants thrive in the cool morning <br /> sun of an eastern exposure, but wilt in the hot afternoon sun of a west-facing exposure. <br /> Il lydirozoines <br /> To achieve the greatest water efficiency, the landscape plan can incorporate "hydrozones" — <br /> areas within a design that receive either low, moderate or high amounts of water. All plants <br /> within a zone have similar water requirements and can be watered as a group. Plants groups in <br /> this way make the most efficient use of irrigation water. For example, certain planting areas may <br /> be designated low-water zones and would contain plants with low water requirements. These <br /> areas receive little or no extra water after plants are established. <br /> Approlpiriiate Lawin Arreas <br /> The concept of appropriate lawn areas is a key principle when designing Xeriscapes. Irrigated <br /> turf areas should be limited to the highest impact locations in the landscape. Lawn areas usually <br /> receive more water and require more maintenance than any other area in the landscape. <br /> Grasses should be carefully selected depending on location, use and desired maintenance <br /> programs. <br /> Common Bermuda grass is among the best grass choices for very low irrigation regimes. This <br /> grass is an excellent choice for many Xeriscape designs. Several other warm-season grasses <br /> become dormant and may wilt or become brown during severe water shortages if they are not <br /> irrigated, but they will often "green-up" as soon as rains return. These non-irrigated turf areas <br /> provide useful control of erosion and provide play areas without wasting valuable water. <br />