by Carol Wallace

Created on: April 25, 2009   Last Updated: April 26, 2009

Many of us greet the forecast of drought with dismay. First it is the lack of rain that makes hauling the hose seem like an unending chore. Then authorities begin to impose water restrictions and even rationing on us. For some of us drought can be such a problem that we feel guilty running enough water to brush our teeth, and take baths in a scant inch of water rather than the showers we may prefer.

And speaking of preferring showers what about our plants? We all know that plants are happiest in normal rainfall, but will tolerate the water we can supply from our hoses. How do we keep them happy and healthy when the there is no rain, sprinklers have been outlawed and the soil is turning to dust?

If you have a small garden, you can probably do the trick with a hose that has an automatic shut-off valve. Make sure to water deep; if you cant get to the whole garden in a single evening (since in most areas watering can be done only after 5 p.m.) then you are better off getting one area thoroughly watered and saving the rest for the following evening. Deep watering promotes deep root growth. Shallow watering means shallow roots close to the heat and drying rays of the sun. Deep watering means your plant will have a good chance for survival..

Larger gardens or multiple garden areas can become a problem. My own yard is large enough that even using a sprinkler system it takes me three days to get everything watered. With a watering can and handheld hose it takes closer to ten and the plants need more attention (and water) than that. Not to mention the fact that we have always assumed that our mature trees and shrubs would survive even if we left them alone. During the last drought, century old trees were dropping limbs and leaves.

Does this mean our gardens are doomed during drought? No. But it does mean we may have to sacrifice some plants in order to save the ones we treasure most. If there isn't enough time or water to satisfy all of your growing things then, painful as it may be, you must choose the ones you will save.

Take a look at your perennials. Amazing as it may seem, some of them probably look just fine even if you have been neglecting them. Chances are that these are native plants and grasses which are inherently suited to dry conditions, or Mediterranean style plants (often with gray leaves) that are native to hot, dry soils. Your succulents sedums, yuccas and others, may also look hale and hearty.

Unfair as it may be, instead of rewarding them, leave them alone

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>