Zero$cape

I have a mess of a yard. No question. I also live in sunny San Antonio, Texas. We've had little rain this year and the temperatures have remained at a scorching 100°+. I have patches of yard that I'm grateful to have anything growing on it; the direct sunlight and little moisture have left only the hardiest of plants (not including most of my grass) to survive on these islands of death.

As a teacher, I have the summer "off." I've put a lot of thought into what to do with my yard when my time comes. Please allow me to introduce my philosophy:

1. The $ in Zero$cape refers to a lack of money spent on this project. All materials must be free or downright cheap. Fencing project may bend this rule.
2. Recycle, recycle, recycle.
3. The yard and garden must be low-maintenance, meaning it must have low water consumption and require little pruning.
4. Local plants and materials must be used as frequently as possible.
5. The landscaping must improve priavcy and utility. Blocking neighborhood trash from the yard and providing shady, clean places to rest outside take high priority.
6. Sources of open water must be minimized to reduce mosquito infestation.
7. Natural processes like rain and decomposition must further reduce the cost and improve the benefit of the landscape.

Some goals:

• Create pathways from the front yard to the backyard that allow access between the mailbox, driveway, front door, water hose, patio and air conditioner.
• Create a shaded sitting spot in the front yard.
• Showcase local flowers in the front yard.
• Add trees and shrubs in both the front and back yard to improve shade and reduce soil erosion.
• Landscape the back yard (somehow) to prevent further erosion or reverse the effects of what has already happened.
• Insert a koi pond to eat mosquito larvae and provide nutrient-rich water to certain plants.
• Grow herbs vegetables and / or fruit.
• Use rain capture methods for watering instead of city water.
• Use a compost heap to produce fertile soil for continued gardening.
  
  

I look forward to sharing my experiences. Hopefully, I can inspire others to find creative and inexpensive ways to improve their yards while respecting the environment and natural resources!