Learn about xeriscaping, the concept that uses drought-tolerant native and adaptive plants to promote water conservation, as part of the USGBC LEED Green Associate certification Exam. Understand how xeriscaping differs from bioswales, monoculture, and weather-based irrigation.
Table of Contents
Question
Which of the following concepts uses drought-tolerant native and adaptive plants to promote water conservation?
A. Bioswales
B. Xeriscaplng
C. Monoculture
D. Weather-based irrigation
Answer
B. Xeriscaplng
Explanation
Xeriscaping is a landscaping practice that uses drought-tolerant native and adaptive plants to reduce water use and maintenance. Xeriscaping also incorporates other strategies such as mulching, efficient irrigation, soil improvement, and appropriate design and zoning.
By using xeriscaping, projects can conserve water, protect natural habitats, reduce stormwater runoff and pollution, and enhance the aesthetic and ecological value of the site.
Xeriscaping is a landscaping concept that focuses on using drought-tolerant native and adaptive plants to promote water conservation. The term “xeriscape” comes from the Greek word “xeros,” meaning dry, and “scape,” referring to the landscape.
Key points about xeriscaping:
- Native and adaptive plants: Xeriscaping utilizes plants that are well-suited to the local climate and require minimal watering, as they have evolved to thrive in the region’s natural conditions.
- Water conservation: By selecting plants that require less water, xeriscaping reduces the need for irrigation, thereby conserving water resources and reducing the environmental impact of landscaping.
- Low maintenance: Drought-tolerant plants used in xeriscaping often require less maintenance, such as pruning, fertilizing, and pest control, compared to non-native or water-intensive plants.
- Enhancing biodiversity: Xeriscaping promotes the use of a diverse range of native and adaptive plants, which can support local ecosystems and provide habitats for wildlife.
The other options mentioned in the question are related to landscaping and water management but differ from xeriscaping:
A. Bioswales: Bioswales are landscape elements designed to concentrate and convey stormwater runoff while removing debris and pollution.
C. Monoculture: Monoculture refers to the agricultural practice of growing a single crop or plant species over a large area, which can lead to reduced biodiversity and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases.
D. Weather-based irrigation: Weather-based irrigation systems adjust water application based on local weather conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall, to optimize water use efficiency. While this can promote water conservation, it is not directly related to the selection of drought-tolerant plants.
USGBC LEED Green Associate certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the USGBC LEED Green Associate exam and earn USGBC LEED Green Associate certification.