Xeriscaping aims to reduce reliance on which resource?

• A. Nutrient fertilizers
• B. Irrigation water
• C. Sunlight exposure
• D. Pesticides

Answer: (B)

Xeriscaping concentrates on conserving water in landscape design by using drought-tolerant plants and water-saving practices. The goal is to reduce the need for supplemental irrigation, so less irrigation water is required. This is achieved through selecting appropriate native or well-adapted species, grouping plants with similar water needs, applying mulch to minimize evaporation, improving soil moisture retention, and using efficient irrigation methods like drip systems.

Fertilizers aren’t the primary focus—healthy soils in a xeriscape can reduce fertilizer needs, but that’s not what the concept aims to minimize. Sunlight exposure isn’t something xeriscaping seeks to alter, since site light is a fixed condition rather than a target. Pesticides aren’t the central aim either, though choosing native plants can sometimes lessen pest pressures.