Care is taken in the construction of new homes to preserve existing trees and plants. The island's roads and paths use only sand or mulch to allow 100 percent restoration of the island's underground aquifer. The characteristics of the native soil, the type of plants to be grown and the time of year when planting affect soil preparation. Each soil has its own structure and texture, drainage pattern, pH, nutrient content and need for amendments. The best course is to have the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil tested.
Many states offer free, or inexpensive soil testing.
Be sure to test all types of soil on a particular site, especially if fill dirt has been brought to the site. Plant Selection Plants need to be compatible with the overall landscape design, and fit into the water-use zone requirements. Keep in mind sound landscaping principles of size and form, growth rate, texture, color and functional use. Check with local horticultural experts. There are hundreds of native and introduced species appropriate to any xeriscape.