Drought-tolerant landscaping reduces outdoor water use and maintenance. Which option best reflects this statement?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. It increases maintenance
• D. It has no effect on water use

Answer: (A)

Drought-tolerant landscaping lowers outdoor water use and maintenance. By choosing plants that are adapted to dry conditions and combining them with water-smart practices like mulch and drip irrigation, the landscape requires much less irrigation than a traditional lawn. Those plants need less frequent watering, which directly reduces water use. In addition, replacing high-water-demand turf with low-maintenance plantings cuts mowing, fertilizing, and other routine upkeep, so overall maintenance burden decreases. Initial establishment may need extra water, but over time both water use and maintenance are typically reduced. So the statement is true.