Xeriscape contest winners rewarded with certificates

The desert is dry.

The desert may be dry, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be colorful. And the “Xeriscape Contest” which appeared in the Spring 2007 issue of HOME illustrated what some imagination can do to add color to low-water landscapes.

Western States Publishers, publisher HOME, partnered with Verde Valley Nursery to test the knowledge of area residents when it comes to plants to use for practical landscaping.

Xeriscape, a coined term, generally is used to describe “water conservation through creative landscaping.” In a desert, with water a precious commodity, Xeriscaping has brought a new look to people’s yards.

Instead of green lawns and deciduous non-native trees, a more practical use of native plants, along with compatible non-natives, can result in colorful, cooling landscapes.

Plants photographed by Fountain Hills Times staffers in early spring all were located in Fountain Hills and North Scottsdale. They are plants that are part of people’s landscaped yards, as well as in common areas around both communities.

We had lots of participation in the contest. There were entries from Fountain Hills, Scottsdale, Phoenix and Tempe. The winners were awarded gift certificates from Verde Valley Nursery. We appreciate all the people who participated.

Winners of the contest are Ms. Vaden Doyle of Fountain Hills, first prize, $100 gift certificate; Clarice Zenor of Fountain Hills, second prize, $50 gift certificate; and Charles Kroger of Tempe, third prize, $25 gift certificate.