Horticulturist Toby Day from the MSU Extension Office recently provided a presentation regarding Xeriscape planting. 

Did you know?

Planting:

*Xeriscape does not mean to remove all turf grass but to reduce turf grass.

*Group plants according to: Light, moisture, and soil requirements.

*Always plant in groups of odd numbers for more pleasing aesthetic results. 1,3,5,7

*Remember texture and colors when you choose your plants.

Soil:

*A basic soil test will cost approximately $25.00 and can save a resident money.

*Use a tulip bulb planter and collect at least the upper 6 inches of soil in about 10         locations. Mix and sent to a lab.

*Improve your soil by incorporating organic matter depending on soil texture. 

* Any lab can help here are two:

MSE Laboratory                                              Soil Testing Laboratory

200 Technology Way                                       103 Waldron Hall, Bolley Drive

Butte, MT  59701 406-494-7334                    North Dakota State University

                                                                        Fargo, North Dakota 58105 701-231-8942

Lawn Care:

*Water your lawns in the mornings- never in the middle of the day.

*Industry standard is 1” of water per week on the average.

*A good way to test how much water you are putting on your yard is to scatter several tuna cans out in your yard, run the sprinkler. If watering 3 times per week, the can should be 1/3 full each time you run the sprinkler.

*Water new lawns less deeply and more frequently, established lawns more deeply and less frequently.

*Drip Irrigation is easier then you think and very beneficial.

Mowing:

*Core-aerating the lawn is more beneficial then power raking.

*Mowing height recommendation is approximately 2-3 inches.

*It is not necessary to remove clippings.

Trees:

*Mulch around the trees helps maintain moisture and improve growing conditions.

*Sprinkler systems do not provide enough water for trees.

*Water tree at drip edge of branches--- not the trunk of tree.

*If you can water in winter months your trees will flourish.

*Drip systems provide the most effective deep watering.

*Stop watering by Sept 1 to harden-off for winter months.