Xeriscape Design
Principles & Guide
The 7 principles coined by Denver Water in 1981. Hydrozoning explained. The 2-season establishment timeline every new xeriscape garden goes through.
← Back to Plant LibraryThe 7 Principles of Xeriscaping
Originally developed by Denver Water in 1981, these principles remain the most effective framework for designing water-efficient landscapes.
Thoughtful Planning & Design
Group plants by water needs (hydrozoning), consider sun exposure and soil type, and map out zones before purchasing anything. A good design saves water and money for decades.
Improve Soil Quality
Colorado's clay-heavy or sandy soils need organic matter worked in. Better soil retains moisture longer and supports root systems that survive dry periods without irrigation.
Choose Regionally Appropriate Plants
Plants native to Colorado's Front Range are pre-adapted to its altitude, temperature swings, and rainfall. They establish faster, resist disease, and need no supplemental fertilizers.
Reduce Unnecessary Lawn Areas
Kentucky bluegrass consumes 18–20 gallons per square foot annually in Colorado's climate (Aurora Water). Replacing it with native plantings or hardscape in non-functional areas is the highest-impact water-saving action a homeowner can take.
Install Efficient Irrigation
Drip systems deliver water directly to root zones, cutting evaporation by up to 50% versus spray heads. Under Stage 1 drought conditions, drip systems are exempt from two-day watering restrictions.
Use Mulch to Retain Moisture
Apply 3–4 inches of natural wood mulch around all plantings. Mulch reduces soil temperature, slows evaporation, suppresses weeds, and improves soil biology as it decomposes.
Maintain Plants Properly
Most native plants establish drought tolerance after 1–2 growing seasons. During establishment, modest watering is needed. Once established, natural rainfall handles most irrigation needs.
Hydrozoning:
The Key to It All
Hydrozoning groups plants by water need and runs separate irrigation circuits to each zone. Without it, every plant gets the same water, including the ones that need none. It's the single most effective water conservation design principle.
High-Water Zone
Entertaining areas, near entry, high-visibility beds
Moderate-Water Zone
Native perennials and shrubs, feature plantings
Low-Water Zone
Native grasses, xeric shrubs, rock mulch areas
Hydrozone Your Yard
Group plants with identical water needs together. Run separate irrigation zones for high, moderate, and low water plants. Never mix Kentucky bluegrass zone valves with native plant zones.
Convert the Hell Strip First
The narrow strip between sidewalk and curb is the hottest, driest part of your property. It's also what neighbors and the city see. Converting it to natives creates maximum visual impact.
The 1–2–3 Rule for Mulch
Apply 3–4 inches of wood chip mulch around all plantings, keeping it 2 inches away from plant stems, and spreading at least 1 foot beyond the drip line of each plant.
Plant in Fall or Early Spring
The two recommended windows (May 15–Jun 30 and Sep 1–Oct 15) coincide with natural rain cycles, giving roots time to establish before summer heat or winter freeze.
Expect a 2-Season Establishment
Native plants spend their first season building root systems, not top growth. They may look modest initially. By year two, drought tolerance kicks in and growth accelerates dramatically.
Smart Controllers Pay for Themselves
Weather-based smart irrigation controllers adjust schedules automatically based on temperature and rainfall. Most Colorado utilities offer rebates on smart controller purchases separately from turf rebates.
The 2-Season Establishment Window
First Spring/Summer
Root Building
Top growth looks modest. Plants are investing all energy underground. Water weekly during establishment, about 1 inch per week.
First Fall
Dormancy Prep
Reduce watering as temps drop. Mulch around root zones before the first freeze. Leave seed heads for overwintering birds.
Second Spring
Visible Growth
Root systems are established. Growth rate accelerates noticeably. Reduce irrigation significantly: water deeply but infrequently.
Second Summer+
Drought Tolerance Active
Most natives now survive on natural rainfall alone. Annual rainfall in Denver (14–15") typically sufficient without supplemental irrigation.
Ready to Apply These Principles?
We'll design a qualifying xeriscape plan using the right plants for your soil, sun, and HOA — and walk you through your city's rebate application.