hin soils, hot weather, periodic droughts punctuated by torrential downpours make gardening in Central and South Texas a challenge. You can meet this challenge by addressing four things in your landscape:

1. Soil is the foundation of a healthy landscape. Use minimum of 6 to 8 inches of compost amended soil under turf and landscape plants, to improve plant health and increase your yard’s ability to stay healthy through dry periods. Maintain 2 inches of mulch in your beds to combat weeds, keep soil cool and moist, and give your yard a finished look.
2. Plants are the performers in a landscape. Choose plants that are well adapted to the soil and climate conditions of your yard. Native plants are beautiful and tough. They maintain the look and feel of the Hill Country and provide a haven for birds and butterflies. Well adapted plants are easy to maintain, and less likely to be stressed by the thin soils and climate extremes of Central Texas area.
3. Design creates a feel and provides for the long-term success of your yard. Plant no more than 50 percent of your yard in turf grass. Give your plants sufficient space from structures and other plants to allow them to grow to full size without crowding. Avoid above and underground utilities when planting trees.
4. Efficient irrigation means only providing plants with the water they need. Group plants with similar water needs and zone your yard accordingly. Use modern, efficient irrigation equipment. Know your watering schedule and change it seasonally. Water no more than twice a week. Do your watering between dusk and dawn. Install a rain sensor to turn off your system during a rainstorm. Learn about efficient landscape irrigation.

The Hill Country Landscape Option is tool to help homeowners create a well designed, resource efficient landscape. By following these guidelines you can have a successful landscape that saves you time, energy and water. Get the details by downloading these documents:

• Hill Country Landscape Option general specifications for builders and homeowners.
• Hill Country Landscape descriptive brochure for new home buyers.
• Application for nomination of a Hill Country Landscape.
• LCRA WaterWise plant list brochure.

You can receive a form so you can audit your irrigation system
Call 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 2114, or e-mail waterconservation@lcra.org.

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