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Water Zones
Very Low Water Zone
This drip-irrigated landscape uses little to no water once established. It is characterized by a variety of native desert plants and compatible exotics that are
spaced to expose a rich "desert pavement" of scattered quarry rock.
Low Water Zone
This lush-looking landscape includes evergreen trees and shrub masses and deciduous areas that are inspired by the mountains west of Reno. A deep wood chip mulch mimics natural forest duff and visually reinforces the concept. Mulches keep water evaporation to a minimum. This treatment can form visual screens and backgrounds for
garden areas and they create favorable microclimates by providing wind breaks. Deciduous trees allow warm winter sun while providing summer shade. Plants used
here flourish with low to moderate amounts of water supplied by drip irrigation.
Moderate and High Water Zones
Thirstier plants have a place in our landscapes, too. Dry streams constructed of rounded river cobbles and boulders can be used to visually enhance drainage ways,
correct erosion problems and provide a garden focal point. Planted with moderate water-use plants such as those which grow along mountain and dry streams have a beautiful, natural look. These areas are the oasis of our Great Basin landscapes. Wildflowers and meadow grasses are included as well as the turf areas so important for recreational use.
Plant selections can coordinate with the mountain theme or can include drier, native wildflowers to work with low water use plantings. Rounded river cobbles and boulders are used to evoke the region's native stream sides. Boulders can also add accents and informal seating to lawn areas. Lawns and wildflower meadows are often planted from seed and can be very water-efficient depending on the kind of seed.
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