‘Smart scaping’
By SUNITA VIJAY
Intelligence lies in the ability to adapt to change. I have observed that many plants have largely adapted to the changing environment, yet not all. Those resistant to change soon perish. As gardeners, we need to identify delicate plants and should propagate native or hardy species.
Climate changes have led to mood swings in weather. We are witnessing water scarcity, drug-resistant diseases in plants, stunted growth, untimely flowering, withered flowers, and many other environment-related issues. Plants struggle to withstand harsh weather conditions, toxic air, and water. The need of the hour is to abandon the old norms and adopt practices beneficial for our holistic sustainability.
One of the options could be xeriscaping, which is the process of landscaping or gardening that reduces or eliminates the need for irrigation. Public perception often equates Xeriscaping with landscapes comprising cacti and gravel. However, I suggest not limiting ourselves to pure xeriscaping but instead embracing water-conserving or drought-tolerant landscaping. This involves using plants whose natural requirements align with the local climate and minimising water loss due to evaporation and runoff. A harmonious blend of water-conserving and native plants may be ideal. Strategies that have worked in the past may no longer be suitable. While some may believe that steadfastness signifies strength, the willingness to adapt often proves most advantageous in the current context. Some may not favour this approach if they have existing rainwater harvesting and water recycling arrangements or consider their current landscaping ideal.
The concept of smart-scaping focuses on minimalist gardening that is still results-oriented.
- Reduces watering: A lush, green lawn is traditionally appealing but isn’t the sole draw of gardening. We can adopt landscaping strategies that minimise watering hassles. Utilising pebbles or gravel with interspersed plant clusters, or opting for artificial grass with pores can help rainwater reach the soil and replenish the water table.
- Cost-cutting: Gardening can be costly. Many plants succumb to rain, heat, or cold despite careful maintenance. Fewer plants mean more focused care, reduced costs, and diminished water needs. A smaller number of robust plants can create an aesthetically rich environment. The attempt to rescue fragile plants is often a significant drain on time and energy, and it can be in vain.
- Boost to local flora and fauna: Cultivating local plants promotes vigorous growth and supports the nesting and flourishing of local birds and wildlife.
- Reduced fertiliser use reduces pollution: Nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilisers and other chemicals intended to enrich the soil can contaminate the air and water, leading to air pollution and algae blooms that harm fish and aquatic ecosystems. Cultivating hardy plants and curbing fertiliser use can mitigate these effects.
How to go about it
- Use bold plants that are fit to survive.
- Use local grasses that flower. They are an excellent choice for landscaping.
- Use native plants to create lush green landscapes. Arrange them thoughtfully to make the right impact.
- Assess the sunlight, water, and soil conditions before planting. Check the drainage and slope. Be aware of your yard’s ecological and climatic conditions before commencing work or choosing the right plant and its ideal spot. Mindful pre-planning and observation can achieve this.
- Decide what to keep and what to let go! There’s no need to start over for smart scaping. Eliminate plants that demand more water and are difficult to maintain. Replace them with those that require less water. Plant those needing more water in shaded areas or where water naturally accumulates.
- Reduce lawn area. Use pebbles, gravel, or artificial grass instead, or create clusters of plants complemented with grasses, large boulders, stones, vases, and gravel.
- Native plants are your best bet when creating a water-conscious garden. Use native ground cover plants for lush spots.
- Initially, native plants will require more water. Don’t expect miraculous results immediately. Once established, they will need less irrigation.
- Consider choosing drought-resistant flowers, shrubs, and plants such as Lavender, Aloe Vera, Lantana, Artemisia, Sedum, Verbena, Sage, Junipers, Bougainvillea, Portulaca, Cosmos, Bamboos, Wormwood, Sedum, Snake plants, Pothos, Philodendron, Monstera, Spider plants, Aglaonema, Dracaena, and Date palms, just to list a few.
- Gardening is not a ‘one-and-done’ job; it’s an ongoing process. You must be observant of the plants’ needs. Many may require replacement or relocation. Remain vigilant and sensitive to their requirements. Continually explore new ideas; don’t be disheartened if some plants disappoint you. Persistence will undoubtedly lead to the creation of a welcoming garden.
(Duly licensed images taken from Canva)
