SUMMER SURVIVORS

Drought-resistant plants

Why do some plants thrive during prolonged hot weather while others wilt, turn brown and barely bloom? The answer to this question lies in choosing the right drought-resistant annuals and perennials for the Central Virginia region. By selecting the perfect plants and following a few simple guidelines, you will have healthy plants regardless of how much rainfall we experience. 

Left Photo: Kathryn Feldmann

Developing survivors 
According to Martha Dudley of Rainfrost Nursery, “In order for plants to be drought-tolerant, they need a good established root system to be able to take care of themselves for periods of low to no water.” So, while certain flowers and plants are more tolerant of less water, a well-developed root system is a must. Following these strategies will also give your plants the best chance of thriving during the summer months: 

• Consider where you’ll plant. Select plants that are suitable for your specific growing conditions. For instance, how well does the soil retain moisture? How well does it drain? How much sunlight will it receive? You can improve soil performance by enriching it with compost, manure or mulch. 
• Water in early morning or in the evening to minimize loss of water through evaporation. Keep new plants well-watered for their first season or two to allow them to develop that extensive root system. Water all plants well when they first go into the ground. 
• Provide shade. The combination of too much direct sun and heat will stress even drought-resistant plants. Mulch is a great option for help with water retention since it absorbs moisture; however, mulch also creates heat as it decomposes. So, mulching at least 5 to 6 inches away from the plants provides protection, but allows the plants to grow. Shade-loving plants can be placed near physical structures that will provide some relief during the hottest parts of the day. 
• Group plants together with similar needs for sunlight, nutrients and moisture. Space out new plantings so that they are not overcrowded. Plant smaller annuals and perennials that will adapt to the soil conditions faster and require less water. 
• Keep weeds to a minimum to prevent competition with plants for the same moisture. 

Annuals & perennials
From plants to shrubs to succulents, summer survivors are plentiful. Take some time to wander through a local nursery and look for the colors and textures that will draw attention to your yard. Dudley has many suggestions for the perfect plants. Red Hot Pokers are among her favorites for their striking, upright flower spikes and their vibrant colors. 

“Monarda, also known as bee balm, is a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies,” notes Dudley. “Echinacea, commonly known as coneflowers will bloom all summer. Hostas are popular perennials that come in a variety of sizes and colors.” All of these plants fare well after their root systems have been established. 

Also, Agastache, a bushy perennial, produces orange, pink or blue flowers from summer to fall. This plant is deer resistant and can be planted in full sunlight. In outdoor pots or containers, the plant may require more frequent watering. Salvia, once established, are drought-resistant and require little care. They prefer full sun, showing off red, lavender, white, purple, orange or pink flowers. Mandevilla, flowering vines, make stunning additions to a trellis or garden wall. 

“Hellebore and the Shasta daisy are also good choices for perennials,” says Dudley. Black-eyed Susans are staples in wildflower gardens with their bright yellow blooms. 

As for a watering schedule, plants need a drink daily for the first week after planting and then every other day for the next two weeks. After that, simply water as needed. Feed blooming plants with a water-soluble fertilizer every 10 days. 

Enjoy combining the varieties of annuals and perennials to create a summer display that will offer pops of color throughout the season. 

Shrubs 
As for shrubs, forsythia and boxwoods make beautiful additions to a summer yard. Dudley notes, “It’s always a good idea to keep your eyes on anything newly planted. That first watering is so important.” 

Lantana, a flowering shrub, is known for its clusters of small bright flowers that come in a variety of color combinations and scream “party” on each bloom. Butterflies and hummingbirds also find their way to lantanas! “Barberry, caryopteris (bluebeard), and vitex (chaste tree) grow nicely during the summer months,” says Dudley. Mock orange, another favorite of Dudley’s, is known for its orange blossom scent and white flowers. 

Your choices are many for shrubs to give your yard a fresh and colorful look. 

Succulents 
A discussion of drought-resistant plants wouldn’t be complete without suggestions for succulents. Portulaca, a low-growing succulent flowering plant, is attractive to bees and butterflies. “Hens and chicks, sedums, delosperma and yucca are fun to have in pots or planted in the yard,” says Dudley. 

Low maintenance and low cost, succulents display a variety of shapes, colors and textures. Perfect for the beginning plant enthusiast, succulents are easy to care for and forgiving. Although they don’t need to be bone dry, succulents will succumb to overwatering, so be sure to check the soil. If it’s too moist, delay watering. 

Throughout the summer, be on the lookout for plants that may need your attention. Perhaps the sun has taken its toll. 

When heat stresses your outdoor plants 

• Leaves tend to look dull and, as stress from lack of water increases, the leaves may curl or wilt. 
• The plant may droop or drop open. At this point, the plant may not rebound even after receiving supplemental water or rain. 
• Plant growth slows and may stop altogether. 
• Flower buds may not develop or the buds may not open. If they do develop, the flowers may be smaller than normal. 

If your plants do suffer from a heat stroke, add water and a balanced fertilizer to encourage restored health. A little tender loving care may rejuvenate the hardier plants. 

With Central Virginia’s humid summer and dry spells, drought-resistant plants that can survive through periods of low water are a necessity. By selecting the best plants and implementing the best practices, you can enjoy a beautiful yard and garden all summer long. ✦