Homeowners face many gardening challenges during summer, from extreme temperatures to intense sun exposure and minimal rainfall. These conditions usually make it challenging to keep the outdoor spaces vibrant and healthy. The good news is that plenty of ways exist to create an inviting garden even when a water shortage hits. To help you get started, here are five drought-resistant gardening ideas to try in the summer.
1. Choose Drought-Friendly Plants
Selecting drought-friendly plants is crucial in creating a garden that can withstand drought conditions. The plants can adapt and thrive in dry environments by developing water-storing capabilities. Popular options for drought-friendly plants include succulents, cacti, and ornamental grasses. They are available in several shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing you to design your garden in numerous striking ways.
Note that these are also low-maintenance plants suitable for busy homeowners. When choosing drought-tolerant plants, consider your area’s climate and soil type. For example, while some plants, like succulents and cacti, can flourish in well-draining soils, others prefer alkaline soils, such as lavender and rosemary.
2. Install Drip Irrigation Systems
These systems are a highly efficient way to water your plants and reduce water waste during droughts. Unlike traditional sprinkler systems that spray water into the air, drip irrigation systems convey water directly to the plant roots. This lessens water loss through evaporation and runoff. One major advantage of using a drip irrigation system is that it is highly customizable.
You can adjust the water flow and pressure according to the specific needs of your plants. In addition, you can automate a drip irrigation system to meet your landscaping needs. It involves using a timer or sensor to control when and how much water is delivered to your plants. As a result, your plants receive the right amount of water even when you are not around to water them manually.
3. Group Plants by Water Needs
Grouping plants by their water needs involves planting species with similar watering requirements together. This technique prevents overwatering or underwatering plants and could help you conserve water resources. One effective way to group plants by water needs is to create zones within your garden based on available water.
For instance, divide your garden into three parts; a high-water zone for plants that need regular watering, a moderate-water zone for species that can tolerate some dryness, and a low-water zone for those that can tolerate drought. You can also use containers or raised beds to group your plants. This approach is particularly useful for small gardens or balconies where space is limited. Containers and raised beds allow you to control the soil moisture more easily, preventing overwatering.
4. Install a Water Feature
Installing water features can also be an excellent way to add visual interest to summer gardens. They include fountains, ponds, and waterfalls that make your outdoors calming and provide a source of moisture for plants. Water features can be challenging to install. Fortunately, you can consult a landscaping professional to help you with the installation process.
They can help you pick the right water feature for your space and offer tips to maintain it. An ideal water feature should fit your style, space, and amount of sunlight available. If you have a larger garden, a bigger pond or waterfall can create a stunning focal point and attract wildlife like birds and butterflies.
5. Incorporate Mulch
Mulch refers to a layer of materials that can be organic or inorganic. It is applied around plants to regulate temperature, retain moisture, and cover up weeds. You can incorporate these materials into your summer garden to create a drought-tolerant landscape. Organic mulches like bark, leaves, straw, and compost provide nutrients to the soil as they break down over time.
Conversely, inorganic mulches such as gravel, rocks, and landscape fabric are long-lasting and require less maintenance. Select the appropriate type and amount for your plants and soil when incorporating mulch into your summer garden. Generally, a layer of 2-3 inches of mulch is recommended for most plants.
Discover More Ways to Keep Your Garden Stunning in the Summer
Now that you have learned about five drought-resistant gardening ideas to try in the summer, it’s time to start implementing them in your own garden. For more ways to keep your garden appealing in the summer, check out our blog for additional tips and inspiration. Our blog features a wide range of gardening, landscaping, and outdoor living articles, with practical advice and expert insights.
