Water Wise Plants

Table of Contents

• Trees
• Shrubs
• Perennials
• Ornamental Grasses

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As Lincoln's population continues to grow, new pressures will be put on available public water resources. Using water wisely in the landscape is a vital part of water conservation. When you plan your landscape, be sure to include specific goals to reduce water use.

Although the plants listed here are valued for their low water needs, they still require regular watering during the first year. Plants develop healthy root systems when they are watered slowly. This allows moisture to soak into the ground instead of running off.

When planting perennials, prepare the soil before planting by adding organic matter. To enrich the soil, improve aeration and drainage, spread a 2-4 inch layer of organic matter on the soil surface. Dig this layer in to a depth of 6 inches. While compost or well-rotted manure is best, chopped leaves or grass clippings can be used although they may tie up some of the available nitrogen in the soil, making an additional application of fertilizer necessary. In most instances, soil improvement is not recommended when planting trees and shrubs. Testing your soil before planting is always a good idea.

After planting, add a layer of mulch over the soil to retain moisture and reduce runoff. Mulching also helps to control weeds. Three to four inches of mulch is plenty. Lincoln nursery and garden centers will carry most of the plants listed in this brochure. If you have questions about a plant's suitability in your landscape, contact your nursery or the Lancaster County Cooperative Extension Service.

Special Thanks to:

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Horticulture Department

Nebraska Statewide Arboretum  arboretum.unl.edu

Campbell's Nurseries and Garden Centers

Finke Gardens and Nursery

Artwork by Renee' Lanik,  UNL Institute of Agriculture

We encourage you to visit the waterwise gardens at
Lincoln Water System
2021 N. 27th Street, Lincoln

Visit the Mayor's Water Conservation Task Force website at lincoln.ne.gov keyword: water