Time to Landscape!
Okay, you just built a green home and your looking at the lot. The builder only removed enough trees and brush to get the home correctly orientated on the lot. The builder also recommended several people who could landscape the lot for you. This is where you will face another test! Do you stick with a green concept and put in less water intensive (Xeriscape) landscaping. Yes, I know almost every one wants that perfect carpet of grass. Ask yourself this; is it practical here in south Texas?
Would it not be better to limit the amount of grass in your lawn and leave as much of it native as possible? You leave habitat for birds and other small creatures and you do not invite deer to munch your expensive ornamental plants.
Now, if you just have to have that lawn there are ways to do it and be water wise! A rainwater collection system can be used to keep that lawn watered and also if filtered can be used as a primary source of household water. Grey water (water from sinks, tubs, laundry, etc… can also be used to water lawns. This water can be recycled as a primary source of household water too but it is rather involved. Sewage water is not to be connected to gray water systems.
If your thinking I’ll just put in a well and use what I want you still will be using potable water for lawn maintenance. The more that goes on your lawn the less there is to drink or grow crops we actually eat. Grass has been called the most wasteful crop in America. Think about it! How much money is spent on watering, fertilizing, cutting and trimming grass? What do we do with the clippings? Most of the time they end up in the landfill. A lot of money spent to fill a landfill!
There is a better way...go native!