Your Water Conservation Plan for July

Good things come in sevens – ancient wonders, oceans, dwarves. Now you can add principles of xeriscape design to that list. In just seven easy steps, you can landscape your yard to be both water-wise and attractive. Get to know your yard – the areas that receive the most sunlight, the soil types – and be creative. Map out a design for your yard that includes shady spots and low water-use plants and turf that will maximize both conservation and aesthetic appeal. Check out our guide, and make seven your lucky number with xeriscape.

Water Conservation Month-by-Month

Conserving water is a year-round activity. In fact, the best way for you to conserve water is to make it a regular habit. This 12-month planner can help, with dozens of easy ideas and a new focus each month. Check out this month's feature, and make a note in your calendar to check back here every month. Better yet, sign up for our monthly reminder email.

• January: Take a home water audit
• February: Using and conserving water indoors
• March: Technologies for conserving water
• April: How to program your irrigation controller
• May: Preparing your landscape for summer
• June: Tools around your home that save water
• July: Principles of Xeriscape – water-wise landscape design
• August: Planning, installing, and maintaining irrigation systems
• September: Choosing and planting low water-use plants
• October: Public Xeriscape demonstration gardens for relaxation and inspiration
• November: Container gardening with water-wise plants
• December: Holiday fun and games and gift ideas