As an added bonus they are more attractive. Located on the south side of the house are two deciduous plants. In the winter most of the leaves have been shed to allow sunlight to flow into the house through the glass door. Many local native plants do well with rainfall as their only water source, but most people prefer a little more plant diversity and color in their yards. A large number of gardeners are organizing their gardens around themes, i.e., hummingbird, butterfly, and vegetable gardens, and most of these plants require more water than what is available from rainfall.
Drip irrigation delivers water to plants in an economical and efficient manner.
Each plant receives water through a polyvinyl line of ever decreasing diameter. Emitters that regulate flow rates are positioned near each plant. Irrigation times and duration are controlled at Desert House by a solar powered photovoltaic timer. Drip irrigation dramatically reduces loss to evaporation because all irrigation water goes directly to the root zone of the plant. Other plants, such as trees and large shrubs which require more water, are watered by flow regulated bubblers.