- - AGRICULTURE CORE CURRICULUM - -

(CLF6000) Advanced Core Cluster: ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE

 (CLF6500) Unit Title: SELECTION, PLANTING, AND CARE OF ORNAMENTAL PLANTS

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 (CLF6506) Topic: BENEFITS OF XERISCAPE   Time              Year(s) 
                                             1 hour            3 / 4 
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         Topic Objectives: Upon completion of this lesson, the student
                            will be able to:

         Learning Outcome #:

           (I-7) - Discuss the benefits of drought-tolerant plants in the 
                     landscape (xeriscape).

         Special Materials and Equipment: 

         References: Breckenridge, Patti. (1990). OH 250, PRINCIPLES OF 
                       LANDSCAPE DESIGN. Self-published class materials 
                       available from El Corral Bookstore, California 
                       Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA
                       94307.
                     Perry, Bob. (1981). TREES AND SHRUBS FOR DRY 
                       CALIFORNIA LANDSCAPES. San Dimas, CA: Land Design
                       Publishing 

         Evaluation: Quiz or test.

TOPIC PRESENTATION: BENEFITS OF XERISCAPE

A. What is xeriscape?

   1. Xeriscape is defined as "water conservation through creative
       landscaping."

   2. This is not necessarily a completely dry (non-irrigated) landscape.

   3. Xeriscape is a blend of intelligent planting design and efficient
       water use.

B. A background of the California water picture relating to landscaping
   can be helpful in understanding the reasoning behind xeriscape.

   1. California's Mediterranean climate with its mild winters and
       abundant sunshine is great for growing a variety of plants.

   2. Rainfall is limited to the winter months and the majority of that
       falls in the northern part of the state.

   3. With an increasing population, unpredictable dry winters, and severe
       drought, the demands on California water are increasing.

   4. About half of all residential water consumption is applied to the 
       landscaping, with the greatest share going to lawns.

C. Benefits of Xeriscape 

   1. Less water is used.

   2. Less fertilizer is used.

   3. There is less maintenance because:

       a. Lawns are smaller.

       b. More ground covers are used.

   4. Costs are reduced due to changes in plant material used.

D. Some of the ways to put in a xeriscape yard:

   1. Reduce the size of the lawn.

       a. Make walks a little larger, increase size of patios.

       b. Cover large areas with ground cover.

       c. Plant a smaller lawn area.

   2. Select plants that are adapted to a Mediterranean climate.

   3. Install drip or low flow water systems.

   4. Water early in the day.

   5. Use mulches to reduce the loss of water and reduce weeds.

 NOTE: The nursery industry has recently replaced the term "drought-
       tolerant" with the term "water-wise."

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         ACTIVITY: 
 
         1. Have the students make a list of plants that can be used
             in a xeriscape.

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1/6/91 MT/clh

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