Severe drought is affecting large sections of the United States. However, this does not mean that you should give up on your garden. Plants have the ability to make it through the hot summer months, even when there are severe water restrictions. According to Weston Miller, a horticulturist with Oregon State University Extension, “Looking ahead, we expect dry or erratic conditions for plants…Planning landscapes now for minimal watering is the smart way to go.”
If you have a lawn, experts recommend that you let it go dormant, or brown, during summer months and revive it in the winter. Miller also suggests that homeowners “maintain the smallest lawn possible, especially if you are going to irrigate.” A recent survey shows that many new home buyers are reducing the size of lawns or even removing them entirely. In California, one in five homeowners are eliminating real lawns for synthetic materials.
Miller suggests, “If there are some old roses or other plants in your garden that aren’t serving their purpose or died because they weren’t getting enough water, then replant them with plants known to be drought-resistant.” New plants need a good watering routine to become established and able to survive the harsher summer months. When re-planting, do so in the fall when you know the weather will be cooler and you can water new plants more. You should also choose your plants wisely. The best options include local plants which can thrive in dry summers and wet winters. Experts also recommend watering in the morning, not the middle of the day, as that is when water is most likely to evaporate and will do little to help plants.
If you are concerned about wasting water but want to maintain an aesthetically pleasing landscape, turn to the experts at JLC in San Diego. Our team of landscaping experts can help you eliminate your lawn and replace it with more drought-friendly landscaping, from artificial turf to local plants that can survive drought conditions and still remain beautiful. We understand plants and are experts in landscape design. Rather than attempting to figure out the best plants and design for your yard on your own, ask the experts at Juniper Landscape Company for help. We will be with you each step of the way, from design to installation to maintenance. Give us a call today to get started.