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Definition: Afforestation [af·for·es·ta·tion] The act or process of establishing a forest especially on land or areas not previously forested.
Xeriscape pronounced [zer-i-scape] afforestation incorporates seven basic principles which lead to saving water: 1) Planning and design, 2) Soil analysis, 3) Practical open space turf areas, 4) Plant and Tree selection, 5) Efficient irrigation, 6)Use of mulches, 7] Natural maintenance.
We worked with our planning and design contractor, Sally Allsup of Land.escape. Our garden contractor was Baldi Gardens, Arlington, Texas. We defined an open space for land repurposing. We cleared the land leaving sustainable old growth to become a part of the new design. New hardscaping terraces were added for proper drainage. Plant and new tree selection were limited to only native Texas species with low-water requirements. All planting material was designed to be at full maturity in 2 years. Soil was analyzed and pH-balanced backfilled earth suitable for new growth. Initial mulch was placed over the new soils.
Maintenance was limited to only annual rainfall and occasional trail and walkway clearing. Plant and tree section were of the type providing a year-round food source for local bugs, birds and animals.