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WATER-WISE PLANTS THAT CAN TAKE THE HEAT

Updated: Sep 20

by Lucy Harrell

We live in an area where heat is the biggest stress for our plants. We also live in a time when water conservation should be a top priority. But being water-wise doesn’t mean you can’t still have a colorful garden. Many plants soak up the heat without soaking up too much liquid. Before you plant, consider how much precious moisture your new additions will require. The first list below features plants that need watering only every 7 to 10 days. The second list suggests drought-tolerant beauties that will thrive when watered as little as once a month — with no rainfall.

Scabiosa needs sun but also prefers afternoon shade.

Getting Established

Keep in mind that all newly planted plants must be watered more frequently until they become established, which takes 28 days. My recommended watering schedule helps new plants on their way while saving as much water as possible. For the first seven days, water every other day (days 1, 3, 5 and 7). Then reduce the frequency to every three days (three times over nine days, or days 10, 13 and 16). Finally, cut back to every four days (three times over 12 days, or days 20, 24 and 28). After 28 days, you can water according to the appropriate table above.

Fortunately, there are lots of plants that love the Texas sun and heat.

For Hot Sunny Spots

Salvia Greggii comes in a vast number of colors ranging from pink to red to purple, and even comes in bi-colors such as pink and white or red and white.