Do you want a garden that is low maintenance, requires little watering and the pest problem is like nill? then xeriscape is the direction that you would want to head in. Also if you want to plant a garden but your concern is the increase in your water bill, then xeriscaping is the garden for you.
The advantage of this type of garden is water conservation but the disadvantage is there are only a certain variety of plants that meet this type of garden requirements. You may have to choose plants which you are not too happy about. Your selection must be plants that are drought tolerant or as we said a bit earlier, plants that require very little water.
Also, another benefit is this kind of garden reduces labour cost. Xeriscaping derives from the Greek word xeros meaning dry and scape meaning type of scene or view.
Examples of plants used in Xeriscape gardens
Cactus

Bromeliads

Desert Rose

Aloes

Tri-color

These are just a few of the many plants which can be used.
When planting this kind of garden it is good to use a good rich organic soil. Fertilizer is optional with this kind of garden. The organic-rich soil will provide the needed nutrients.
About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.
Hello!
I have only just recently started to look into gardening, but I would like to use it as a way to feed my family because I am concerned about pesticides and other chemicals that are being used on commercial crops. The plants that you speak of in this article are beautiful but I am curious what areas of the world would have the best climate for them? I live in Virginia, USA and it is generally a moist climate here. Would these plants be appropriate for my area?
Thanks!
Jess