As our summers get hotter and water gets a lot scarcer, it's becoming more important than ever to plant trees and flowers that can take the heat. If you want your yard to look great all through the summer, you'll need to get smart about your plantings and find the best varieties for your area. The best place to start is your local nursery, but here are some great trees and plants that are wonderfully drought resistant.
Scotch Pines are a great landscaping choice that not only look great, but they are incredibly hardy. They'll be able to withstand hot summers as well as cold winters and they need a minimum amount of water to survive. These trees also grow incredibly quickly and can provide a great wind break or natural fence for your property. They usually reach between 25 and 35 feet in height and are a great addition to any property.
Cedar Trees also work well, but there is a downside. These trees are actually pretty thirsty, but do well in hot conditions. This is due to the fact that suck an amazing amount of water out of the ground. If you've got a lot of plants around your cedar trees, they are going to suffer from this. In addition, grassy areas around cedar trees can get a bit parched due to this trees thirsty ways. If you're going to use cedar trees, make sure that your other plants are far enough away so that they don't suffer too.
There are several varieties of roses that are drought resistant as well as blight resistant. Ask your nursery if they supply any of the known varieties, or you can also purchase them online. These roses usually have the upside of being able to withstand winters without being protected, so they are well worth the extra money.
Perhaps the prettiest drought resistant tree is the Russian Olive. This is a terrific shade tree and can enhance any yard. Surprisingly, despite its size, it is one of the few trees that does not need a large amount of water. It is also not picky about the soil it's in and can thrive just about anywhere. They grow to about 25 feet in height and also attract birds throughout the year.
If all else fails, consider trying a desert garden complete with cacti and rocks. It's a lot cheaper in the long run and it should be able to survive even in the most water deprived areas. After all, if they can make it in Death Valley, they should be able to take the heat in your yard.
If you're still finding it difficult to keep your lawn and trees alive, consider recycling water. You can reuse rain water, or even in extreme cases, your bath water if you do not use a lot of scented soaps. It's a little odd, but if you're facing an extreme water shortage, it is in an option if you don't mind carting water around.
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Originally posted 2008-08-11 05:52:14. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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1 comment so far ↓
I see that you are suggesting Russian Olives; someone needs to inform you of the bad side of these trees.
I may be prejudiced against them, but I am highly allergic, as are a lot of people.
They have a sickly sweet smell that carries for miles. Your neighbors may not appreciate them.
They are clogging the waterways here in New Mexico, crowding out the native species.
They may not need a whole lot of water, but they will use it anyway. The more they are given the more they will use.
You don’t say they have thorns either.
Someone needs to help you with your research.
Alice Barnard
Horticulturist
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