If the term "xeriscape" evokes desert-like images of rocks and cacti in your head, think again.

Xeriscape doesn't have to mean "zeroscape," said Wayne Sasaki, president of the Friends of Halawa Xeriscape Garden.

There are a variety of "unthirsty" plants (plants that require less water) that are quite hearty, especially native plants such as naupaka, 'akia and 'ohi'a lehua, Sasaki said.

Creating your own xeriscape won't just beautify your yard. An outdoor xeriscape can save from 30 percent to 80 percent in water consumption, meaning comparable savings in water charges.

Xeriscaping "is mainly using the appropriate plants, which will hopefully require less water, in their proper environment," Sasaki said.

If you're interested in starting your own xeriscape garden, Sasaki recommends following the Board of Water Supply's seven principles of xeriscaping:

1. Carefully plan and design your garden. This allows you to install your landscape in phases, which minimizes initial expenses.

2. Limit and separate turf areas. Grassed areas frequently require the greatest amount of watering. Turf is best separated from trees, shrubs, ground covers and flowering plants, so that it can be irrigated separately. Replace turf with less water-demanding materials, such as ground covers, less-thirsty plants or mulches.

3. A well-planned sprinkler system can save water. For efficient water use, group garden plants according to similar water needs. Turf areas are best watered with sprinklers. Trees, shrubs, garden flowers and ground covers can be watered efficiently with low-volume drip, spray or bubbler emitters. Moisture sensors — which shut down the irrigation system when the ground is wet or on a rainy day — also help reduce water waste.

4. Soil improvement allows for better absorption of water and improved water-holding capacity. Just remember that grading and soil improvements should be done before the installation of irrigation systems.

5. Mulched planting beds are an ideal replacement for turf areas. Mulches cover and cool soil, minimize evaporation, reduce weed growth and slow erosion. Mulches also create landscape interest. Organic mulches are typically bark chips, wood grindings or bagasse. Inorganic mulches include rock and various gravel products. Place mulch directly on the soil or on breathable fabric. Avoid using sheet plastic in planted areas.

6. Less-thirsty plants improve your garden in more ways than one. There are many attractive garden species available, including popular flowering trees, shrubs and vines, and turf grasses that require less watering than others. Ideally, native plants that thrive on natural rainfall do best in a xeriscape.

7. Regular maintenance preserves the intended beauty of your landscape and saves water. Because of their design, xeriscapes can help reduce maintenance costs. Pruning, weeding, proper fertilization, pest control and irrigation system adjustments further water savings. Always water according to plant needs.