Drought tolerant annuals and perennials are plants that can withstand dry soil after their roots are established. No plant is drought-resistant until it become established.
All plants require a steady supply of moisture when first planted. Once a plant is established and has a deep root system, it requires less water.
Annuals and perennials started in spring when the soil is relatively moist can set down roots and then survive dry weather. It is best to start drought-tolerant annuals and perennials in the spot they will grow through dry weather rather than transplant them into the garden when the weather is hot and dry.
Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.
Many trees, shrubs, and perennials are grown especially for their autumn foliage color. Autumn is a time when many deciduous plants and a few evergreens make their presence known. Many people find the colors of autumn the loveliest of the year. Autumn plant color is part of the natural processes which begin with the shortening…
Asarum is a low-creeping plant grown more for its glossy roundish or heart-shaped leaves than for its flowers. It is a good ground cover for shaded or woodland gardens. Asarum–commonly called wild ginger–is not used for seasoning like true ginger. Asarum gets its common name from the scent of its crushed leaves and roots–which smell…
Texas Bluebonnet, Lupinus texensis, bears blue, pealike flowers in midsummer. Flowers are borne on long, graceful spikes from 1 to 3 feet tall. Bluebonnets are a good fit for meadows and long drives. They quickly reseed and naturalize. Get to know Texas Bluebonnet Where to plant Texas Bluebonnet When to plant Texas Bluebonnet Planting and…
Senecio is a large genus of bedding plants, tender perennials, and houseplants that all bear daisy-like flowers. The flowers usually appear in clusters but sometimes appear singly. In most species, the eyes are surrounded by ray florets or petals. The two best-known members of the Senecio genus are Dusty Miller, Senecio cineraria, and Florist’s Cineraria,…
Reseda–commonly called mignonette–is a sprawling annual usually grown for its spicy-sweet flower fragrance. Mignonette bears small greenish flowers often tinged with copper or yellow. The dense flower spikes become loose and open as they mature. Reseda odorata is a good choice for borders where it can be planted in a mass to get the full…
Hyssop, Agastache, is an erect perennial with fragrant foliage and mauve and light pink or purplish flower spikes. It is a good choice for mixed borders and cottage gardens, and it attracts butterflies and bees to the garden. Agastache is native to North America and parts of Asian. Like other members of the Mint family,…
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