Grow drought resistant flowers this summer: help save money, time and the environment

It may not have felt like it in May just gone by but our summers are getting hotter and gardeners spend a good deal of time watering these days. Apart from the physicality of the job and the length of time it takes to carry out, we should always be aware of how precious our water supply is. Amazingly, an average ⅝” hosepipe will deliver 17 gallons of water per minute and the slightly larger ¾” diameter hosepipe 23 gallons. Multiply that by just how long it takes to complete the task and the amount of water used will stagger you.

In the recent past, some counties have experienced hosepipe bans and saw their plants wilt and their lawns turn brown and crispy. But, due to climate change, we all have the challenge of using less water in the garden to help the environment. In addition to conserving water the best way we can, rainwater butts etc, we also have the choice of growing drought resistant plants in our garden.

Some of these plants have leaves covered with a greasy film that has a similar effect to sunscreen lotion. Others have a deep penetrating root system reaching out for any available moisture and a number even store their own water for times of need. Whatever system the plant has for coping with drought conditions, they must be given the best start when planting.

• Mix in plenty of organic matter and if your soil is heavy, add plenty of sharp sand or grit
• Soak the plant well before planting
• Plant in a sheltered area
• Apply a mulch after planting to reduce evaporation. It also helps to keep down the weeds that compete for moisture.

Here are five examples of good drought tolerant plants that are easy to grow and once established,and shouldn’t require endless watering.

Sempervivum (Houseleek)

This small succulent plant seems to shrug off any drought conditions. Known also as ‘hens and chickens’ it is one of the easiest plant to grow. The leaves radiate around the centre forming fascinating rosettes in many shades from almost black through brown, red and orange to purple, pink, and grey plus various shades of green and yellow.

Helichrysum (Straw flower)

Thought by many to be the best of the ‘everlasting’ flowers, their blooms come in many shades. They are so easy to cultivate and almost thrive on neglect. When dried, their form and colour is preserved for years.

Cerastium tomentosum (Snow-in-Summer)

In late spring and early summer the woolly grey foliage is smothered in glowing white flowers. Use it to cascade down a wall or for something completely different; grow it to form a lawn. This will look spectacular providing it is not often walked upon.

 Ceanothus (Californian lilac)

These shrubs produce vibrant sprays of blue flowers above glossy green leaves in late spring and summer. They will grow well in a hot sunny position protected from cold winds.

Sedum Spectabile (Ice plant)

This sturdy perennial plant grows up to 45cm tall with fleshy bluish-green leaves. Clusters of pink starry flowers are produced in late summer and these are replaced with maroon seed heads. You can either prune it after flowering or admire the structure covered in frost over the winter.

Published June 8th, 2015 by Jordan. Article ref 3790

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