Xeriscaping, simply, is working within your hardiness zones to select and grow plants requiring less water usage.  With the effects of global warming becoming more apparent everyday, water conservation will be an important issue for the future.  Xeriscaping is especially important for year-round gardens because of the extra water required- though, in Canada, we have a relatively short growing season, the issue is an important one.

The next few pages will help you grasp the basic ideas of Xeriscape gardening.  In Canada, our basic zones are 1& 2 though in some areas we can range from 1 in Northern Alberta to 9 on Vancouver Island.  We present a selection of trees, shrubs and plants for these regions, but check with your local greenhouses for additional recommendations.