Drought Tolerant Plants

Water is vital for all living things to survive. Certain plants have built-in protection from heat and drought enabling them to survive in adverse conditions. Placing these plants in the driest areas of a garden will prove rewarding. When creating garden capable of remaining attractive during the hot and dry summer months it is important to combine proper soil preparation and careful selection of plants.

Meadow species are naturally drought tolerant due to deep root systems and rapid growth in hot weather. The following list contains late summer perennials that naturally thrive in dry soils.

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Black-eyed-Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Gayfeather (Liatris spp.)
Bee-balm and bergamots(Monarda spp.)

Recent weather patterns have made overwatering a potential issue as well. To determine if a plant needs watering, feel about 1/2” into the soil. If the soil feels dry then it is time to water and if it is still wet, refrain. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other possible challenges. However, if planned and planted properly, ornamental flower gardens will survive and remain attractive within a variety of weather conditions.

Today's photo of Black-eyed-Susan was taken at the Community Gateway Garden at Bedford Street in Johnstown.

Our Website has a new look. Check it out at www.paconserve.org.

E-mail Today's WPC Daily to a Friend!

Sign Up for WPC Daily