Xeriscaping Tips for Calgary Gardens

With Calgary’s hot summers and frequent water restrictions, keeping a lush garden can feel challenging. But you do not have to choose between beauty and sustainability. Xeriscaping is a smart, eco-friendly way to create a vibrant outdoor space while using much less water. It is the perfect match for Calgary’s dry climate.

What is Xeriscaping?

Xeriscaping is all about designing beautiful landscapes with drought-tolerant plants, efficient irrigation, and thoughtful garden planning. It reduces water use and garden upkeep, helping you enjoy a thriving yard with less maintenance.

Benefits of Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping is not just about saving water. It comes with other great benefits too:

• Water Conservation: Xeriscaping cuts down on water use, which is a huge advantage during Calgary’s seasonal water restrictions.

• Low Maintenance: Drought-resistant plants need less frequent watering and care, saving you time and effort.

• Cost Savings: Using less water and doing less maintenance can lower your water bills and reduce plant care costs.

• Better for the Environment: Xeriscaping supports local ecosystems, eases the demand on water supplies, and reduces the need for chemicals.

Xeriscaping Tips for Calgary Gardens

Try these simple ideas to create a healthy, drought-tolerant garden that will thrive in Calgary’s climate.

1. Choose the Right Plants: Pick native and drought-tolerant plants like ornamental grasses, succulents, lavender, and juniper. These plants are hardy and well-suited for dry conditions.

2. Install Efficient Irrigation: Use a drip irrigation system to water plants directly at the roots. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.

3. Use Mulch: A good layer of mulch keeps soil moist, cools the roots, and cuts down on how often you need to water.

4. Group Plants by Water Needs: Place plants with similar water requirements together so you can water more efficiently.

5. Improve Soil Health: Add organic compost to help soil hold moisture longer, giving your plants more to work with.

6. Collect Rainwater: Set up rain barrels to collect and store rainwater for use during dry spells.

Overcoming Water Restrictions

Calgary’s water restrictions do not have to limit what you can grow. Xeriscaping helps you keep your garden looking its best while working with the climate instead of against it.

A few simple water-saving habits can make a big difference:

• Water When It’s Cool: Early mornings and evenings are the best times to water, as cooler temperatures mean less evaporation.

• Harvest Rainwater: Use rain barrels to collect water for your garden so you rely less on city water.

• Keep Mulching: Mulch acts like a shield for your soil, locking in moisture and protecting plant roots.

Learn More About Xeriscaping

Want to get better at water-wise gardening? Join local xeriscaping workshops to learn about drought-friendly plant choices, garden design, and sustainable practices that work for Calgary’s unique conditions. The Calgary Horticulture Society is a great place to start.

Create Your Water-Wise Oasis

Xeriscaping is not just a trend — it is a lasting solution that helps you grow a beautiful, low-maintenance garden while saving water. With the right plants, smart irrigation, and thoughtful design, you can create an outdoor space that thrives in Calgary’s dry climate.

Your garden can still be full of color, texture, and life while protecting one of our most precious resources. Make the switch to xeriscaping and enjoy a more sustainable, stunning garden this season.