| Hello, we live in Austin, Texas, and would like to grow some plants in our backyard. Regarding the facts that - it is hot and the soil is dry (some little stones) - we cannot water the soil during the summer. - we like plants like lavender, thyme, rosemary, sage etc (culinary plants) - we also would like a little bit of flowering plants (drought friendly) what kind of plants can we grow ? Thank |
| Moss rose (portulaca), lantana, bulbine |
| There are a number of drought tolerant plants suitable for your garden in Austin, but none will survive without a little water during the summer months. You can amend your garden beds with organic matter prior to planting to help the soil hold moisture. If, after planting, you also place 2-3 inches of organic matter over the soil surface around your plants, it will help suppress weeds, moderate soil temperatures and slow water evaporation. Since you are just beginning to get your garden beds ready, why not install a drip system after amending the soil? A drip system can provide needed moisture in an economical way. Here are some plants to consider (recommended by the City of Austin): Texas Betony; Verbena, Prairie; Yarrow; Zexmenia Sage;, Penstemon; Big Red Sage; Sage, Russian; Sage, Scarlet or 'Tropical'; Salvia, Gregg; Shrimp Plant; Ruellia, Dwarf; Sage, Cedar; Sage, Majestic; Sage, Mealy Blue; Sage, Mexican Bush; Mexican Oregano; Pink Scullcap; Plumbago; Primrose, Silverleaf; Purple Coneflower; Jerusalem Sage; Lantana; Lantana, Trailing; Lavender; Mexican Honeysuckle;Mexican Mint Marigold; Hibiscus, Perennial; Hymenoxys; Indigo Spires ;Iris, Bearded; Iris, Butterfly/Bicolor; Fern, River; Firebush; Gaura; Gayfeather; Gregg Dalea; Mexican Butterfly Weed; Tropical Milkweed ;Cast Iron Plant; Chile Pequin; Cigar Plant; Columbine, Red; Black-eyed Susan; Blackfoot Daisy; Bulbine ;Bush Morning Glory; Butterfly Weed. Best wishes with your garden! |
