Growing Plants in a Dry Climate
by Jenni Worboys
Dry weather can be hazardous for plants, drying out the water that is necessary
for their growth and survival.
The most common visible effect drought has on the garden, is drying up and wilting
plants. When plants aren't receiving the water they need they begin to wilt.
By this stage they are already damaged. This can is usually first visible
at the top of the plant and at the end of the leaves.
When you are planning your garden, select plants that can handle hot dry weather,
there are several attractive plants available that are hardy enough these weather
conditions. Many different varieties of flowers will tolerate dry conditions
such as Poppies, Cornflowers, Marigolds, Salvia, Wallflower, and Chrysanthemums.
Likewise, many shrubs can also make a hardy, attractive addition to your garden
such as Birches, Magnolias, Ceanothus, Euphorbia, and Thyme. Most silver leafed
plants will also stand dry conditions very well, in fact, these are some of
the toughest plants you can grow; some nice varieties of silver leafed plants
include Honey Flower, Lavender and Big Ears. Succulents also grow well in these
conditions, and as an added benefit, rock gardens with succulents are easy
care very modern at the moment!
To prevent the sun from drying out your plants and their soil, water them frequently
Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day (between 10am and 4pm), as
then sun beating onto the water can cause it to boil and 'cook' the roots.
You should also move potted plants out of direct sunlight to help them absorb
more water. Try to do your watering in the evening as this gives plants the
most time to absorb the water before the sun and wind dry out the soil, although
if it the night and evenings where you live are cool try not to water plants
after 5pm as this may promote fungal growth.
Consider watering more thoroughly less often. A light sprinkling of water tends
to only dampen the soil and encourage shallow root growth. In comparison, a
through watering forces the water to move deep into the soil, getting to the
bottom of the roots and encouraging them to grow deeper, meaning hardier plants
that are more likely survive the dry conditions. Sprinklers or irrigation systems
are a good way to achieve this without having to stand around for hours holding
the hose. Keep and eye on the weather forecast or your weather station on days
you were planning to water, as when the rain does eventually come it is full
of natural nutrients that can help your garden grow and save you time.
Although it is important to make sure your plants are getting enough water,
you must also ensure that you do not over water them. The best way to tell
when plants need water is to pick up a handful of soil from around the base
of the plant (being careful not to disturb the roots). Squeeze the soil in
your hand, ideally it should form a ball; if it flakes and crumbles the soil
is dry and needs watering, if it oozes, the soil is too wet and you need to
hold off watering for a while.
To help retain moisture, spread a thin layer (1-3 inches is plenty) of mulch
on the garden in late spring, this helps to retain moisture during summer by
preventing it from evaporating, it also provides extra nutrients and discourages
weeds. Be careful not to apply too much mulch as this can encourage shallow
root growth, and can prevent water from penetrating down to the roots. When
you are planting, you should also add an organic matter to the soil as this
can also work to help retain moisture. You can also add a thin layer of mulch
to container plants to help retain water, or try one of the various water retentive
gels available from your local garden centre.
Each of these tips should help you achieve a stunning garden despite the difficult
weather conditions. Good luck and good weather!
|