Australia is known for its dry and hot summer weather, however with the predicted El Nino, the weather is set to be a difficult summer for all living things including our plants. While our established gardens may need extra care this summer, its important to consider what plants will suit best when you are adding new specimens to your garden before the coming heat. With reduced rainfall and drought conditions to be expected, choosing drought hardy plants is a great way to add new foliage textures and colours into your garden.
Some great examples of drought tolerant plants include Cordyline, Lomandra, Olive trees (Olea species), Dragon Tree (Dracaena draco), Ponytail Palms (Beaucarnea recurvata), Jade (Crassula species), Giant Spear Lily (Doryanthes palmeri), Gymea Lily (Doryanthes excelsa), Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis), Cactus species and succulents such as Chalk Sticks (senecio mandraliscae), Copper Spoons (Kalanchoe orgyalis), Agave, Mangave, Aloe and Yucca species.
Don’t forget, the secret to thriving plants lies below the ground in the soil. Prepare your soil before planting, ensuring pH level is ideal for your chosen plants. Although these plants may be labelled as drought tolerant, like all plants whilst they are establishing extra care is needed and appropriate watering; to promote healthy root development and plant growth until specimens mature.
Some tips to protect your plants from the heat this summer include:
- Applying mulch around your plants to aid in moisture retention by reducing evaporation.
- Watering or irrigating in the early morning and/or late evening when temperatures are cooler to allow plants to absorb water.
- Plant drought-resistant alternatives like those above.
Drop in store to browse our range of outdoor specimens and to chat about what plants will suit your space best.