Hotter, drier summers and watering restrictions are pushing many gardeners toward plants that cope with little rain. Done well, a drought-tolerant garden is full of texture, scent, and movement.
The secret is designing with the conditions rather than against them.
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Start with the soil
Well-drained soil suits most drought-tolerant plants, which often hate sitting wet in winter more than they mind dry summers. On heavy clay, add grit and organic matter, or create raised areas. On sandy soil, organic matter helps hold moisture.
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Group plants by water needs
Put thirstier plants near the house or water butt where they are easy to water, and the toughest plants in the hottest, furthest areas. This “hydrozoning” stops you watering the whole garden for the sake of a few plants.
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Plants that cope with dry spells
- ✿Mediterranean herbs — lavender, rosemary, sage, thyme
- ✿Silver-leaved plants — lamb’s ears, artemisia, santolina
- ✿Ornamental grasses — stipa, pennisetum, miscanthus
- ✿Late-season perennials — sedum, echinacea, perovskia
- ✿Shrubs — cistus, phlomis, ceanothus (check hardiness locally)
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Mulch and water wisely
Gravel or bark mulch keeps roots cool and reduces evaporation. Water new plants deeply and less often during their first year to encourage deep roots, then reduce watering as they establish. Drip irrigation on a timer uses far less water than a sprinkler.
This is general landscaping and garden information, not professional advice. Costs, regulations, and plant suitability vary by location. Call before you dig to locate buried utilities, and consult a licensed landscaper or engineer for retaining walls, drainage, and structural work.