Many homeowners use zeroscape vs xeriscape interchangeably, but they’re actually quite different. Understanding the distinction between zeroscape vs xeriscape can save you thousands in water bills and help you create the perfect landscape for Colorado’s climate.
Xeriscaping uses drought-tolerant plants and water-efficient techniques to create a lush, beautiful landscape while conserving water. Zeroscape, on the other hand, is a minimalist approach with minimal or no plants, relying primarily on hardscaping like gravel and stones.
This difference matters for your water usage, landscape design choices, and long-term maintenance requirements. You’ll learn the proper definitions, see a side-by-side comparison, understand the pros and cons, and discover which approach works best for your Denver property.
Definitions: Zeroscape vs xeriscape?
Xeriscape (The correct term):
Derived from the Greek word “xeros” meaning dry plus “landscape,” xeriscaping was actually developed by Denver Water in the 1980s. This landscaping method minimizes water use through smart plant selection, efficient irrigation systems, and proper soil management.
True xeriscaping includes native drought-tolerant plants, strategic mulching, and carefully planned turf areas. The goal is creating a thriving ecosystem that looks beautiful year-round while using 50-75% less water than traditional lawns.
Zeroscape (Common misuse):
Zeroscape isn’t a real horticultural term, but people often use it to describe bare, rock-heavy landscapes that aim for “zero maintenance” or “zero plants.” This aesthetic can appear dry, harsh, or desert-like.
While popular in extremely arid climates, zeroscape designs often miss the ecological benefits that make landscapes truly sustainable. They can actually create problems like heat reflection and soil compaction.
Comparison table: Xeriscape vs zeroscape at a glance
| Feature | Xeriscape | Zeroscape |
| Origin | Coined by Denver Water in 1981 | Slang term, often misused |
| Purpose | Reduce water usage while preserving natural beauty | Eliminate water and plant maintenance |
| Plant Life | Native, drought-tolerant species like blue grama grass, rabbitbrush | Little to none |
| Aesthetic | Lush, layered, natural with seasonal interest | Minimalist, rocky, sparse appearance |
| Wildlife Value | Supports pollinators, birds, beneficial insects | Provides little to no habitat |
| Soil Health | Enhanced through mulch, compost, organic matter | Often compacted or barren |
| Water Use | 50-75% less than traditional lawns | Nearly zero irrigation needed |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance, seasonal care required | Ultra-low maintenance |
| Ideal For | Water-conscious homeowners wanting beauty | Ultra-low-maintenance priorities |
| Cost | Higher upfront, significant long-term savings | Lower initial cost for materials |
Pros and cons of xeriscaping
Pros of xeriscaping:
- Massive water savings – Reduces water usage by 50-75% compared to traditional lawns
- Lower utility bills – Saves hundreds of dollars annually on water costs for Denver homeowners
- Supports local wildlife – Creates habitat for native pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects
- Less maintenance – Requires minimal fertilizer and deals with fewer weeds naturally
- Increases property value – Well-designed xeriscaping boosts curb appeal and home values
- Year-round beauty – Native plants like purple coneflower provide stunning seasonal color
- Perfect for Denver climate – Works naturally with Front Range weather conditions
Cons of xeriscaping:
- Higher upfront costs – Professional design and installation can be more expensive than sod
- Requires planning – Need plant knowledge and strategic design for best results
- Not maintenance-free – Still needs occasional pruning, mulching, and seasonal care
- Learning curve – Some homeowners disappointed when expecting zero maintenance
Tip: Xeriscaping isn’t no-maintenance, it’s low-maintenance and sustainable. The reduced watering, weeding, and fertilizing more than compensates for occasional plant care.
Pros and cons of zeroscaping
Pros of zeroscaping:
- Minimal water use – Nearly zero irrigation needed once established
- Ultra-low maintenance – No mowing, pruning, or regular plant care required
- Lower initial cost – Simple gravel or rock installation can be budget-friendly
- Practical for small areas – Works well for utility zones and narrow strips
Cons of zeroscaping:
- Poor curb appeal – Harsh appearance can detract from property value
- No ecological benefits – Provides zero habitat for pollinators or wildlife
- Heat island effect – Gravel and rocks make yards uncomfortably hot in summer
- Weed problems – Weeds grow through gravel, creating ongoing maintenance issues
- No rebate eligibility – Large zeroscape areas don’t qualify for Denver Water rebates
- Limited environmental impact – Misses opportunities for natural cooling and air quality benefits
Which one is right for your Denver yard?
Choose xeriscaping if you want:
- Long-term water conservation combined with natural beauty and seasonal interest.
- Xeriscaping qualifies for Denver Water rebates and utility incentives, potentially saving you money on installation.
- You’ll support local pollinators and reduce your environmental impact while creating a cooler, more comfortable outdoor space.
- The diverse plantings provide shade and natural temperature regulation.
Consider zeroscape elements if you’re:
- Landscaping small urban strips, utility zones, or back alleyways where plant growth is impractical.
- You prioritize absolute minimal upkeep over aesthetic appeal.
- You prefer a minimalist or contemporary desert-style aesthetic for specific areas of your property.
- Many successful Denver landscapes blend both approaches, using gravel paths and hardscaping combined with xeric planting zones for balance and visual interest.
Common myths about xeriscaping and zeroscaping
| Myth | Reality |
| “Xeriscaping is ugly” | Well-designed xeriscaping can be lush and colorful year-round with proper plant selection |
| “Zeroscaping is the same thing” | Zeroscape is not a technical landscaping practice with proven benefits |
| “You can’t have grass in xeriscaping” | Strategic turf use is allowed, it’s about smart placement in high-use areas |
| “It’s expensive to xeriscape” | Long-term water savings often offset upfront costs within 3-5 years |
| “Native plants don’t bloom” | Colorado natives like penstemon and Indian paintbrush provide spectacular flowers |
FAQs about Zeroscape vs xeriscape
Is zeroscape a word?
The term “zeroscape” is sometimes substituted for xeriscaping due to phonetic similarity, but it’s not an official horticultural term. True xeriscaping follows specific principles developed by landscape professionals.
Which is better for saving water in Colorado?
To effectively save water in Colorado, xeriscaping is superior because it combines water conservation with ecosystem benefits. Professional xeriscape design can reduce water usage by 50-75% while maintaining property value.
Can I xeriscape part of my lawn and keep grass in other areas?
Yes, you can xeriscape part of your lawn and keep grass in other areas. Many homeowners choose to replace some lawn areas with drought-tolerant plants while retaining grass in high-traffic zones like play areas or entertaining spaces.
Is zeroscape allowed in Denver residential areas?
Yes, both xeriscaping and zeroscape elements are allowed in Denver residential areas. Colorado law prohibits HOAs from prohibiting drought-tolerant landscaping, though they can maintain design guidelines for aesthetic consistency.
How much does professional xeriscaping cost in Denver?
Xeriscaping costs vary significantly based on your property size, plant selections, and design complexity. For accurate pricing tailored to your specific needs, contact Mile High Lifescape for a personalized consultation and detailed estimate.
Conclusion
Xeriscaping represents the practical, sustainable solution for Denver homeowners who want beautiful landscapes without excessive water use. While zeroscape approaches might seem simpler, they often miss the key ecological benefits that make landscapes truly climate-resilient.
By choosing professional xeriscaping, you’re investing in a greener, more valuable property that supports Colorado’s natural ecosystem. The long-term water savings, reduced maintenance, and increased property value make xeriscaping the smart choice for Denver’s future.
Ready to transform your landscape? Contact Mile High Lifescape for a professional xeriscape design consultation tailored to your Denver property’s unique needs and your family’s lifestyle.
