Is this a drought?

This span of day after rainless day of 90-plus degree temperatures and high humidity are taking a toll on plants. But is this officially a drought? According to the 'drought monitor map', Massachusetts is not currently experiencing a drought. I guess it depends on where you live. Some towns have had flash floods and others haven't gotten a drop of rain. Officially, it may not be a drought but it certainly looks like one to me! As I walk around the garden, I'm seeing wilting, crispy-leaved and dying plants and trees (except for the weeds that look as healthy as ever!). Like most gardeners, I'm dragging hoses, where I can, to try to keep plants alive and I find myself desperately searching the skies for darkened clouds that could bring some relief. 

I guess it's time to re-think my gardening practices. How much time do I have to tend to the needs of a thirsty garden and do I want to continue to do that. One approach to consider is Xeriscape gardening. Here, the lawn is eliminated or, at least, significantly reduced, and the area re-planted with drought tolerant plants. (Think about that-no more mowing!)  This doesn't mean you have to plant a cactus garden for there are a number of ornamental plants (trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals) that are drought tolerant.This also doesn't mean that you'll never have to water. It'll just be far less often. 

Here are some suggestions for designing a water-wise landscape:

*Group together plants wih similar water needs creating watering zones.

*Position zones so that they transition from least drought-tolerant to most drought-tolerant. If possible, place the least drought-tolerant plants closest to the watering source, planted in humus rich soil, dappled shade or near a water feature.

*Modify existing slopes to divert run-off to the least drought tolerant plants.

*Terrace slopes that can't be modified to minimize run-off and erosion.

*Incorporate a water feature into the highest water-use zone. A circulating water feature provides a moisture laden environment where ferns and other moisture loving plants can thrive without additional irrigation. If possible, this water feature should be sited in dappled shade to reduce water loss from evaporation. You can create dappled shade by planting dwarf trees and shrubs near, but not next to, your water feature.

 

I can see where I can make some of these changes easily, others are a long term project. I know the lawn will stay- I'm not ready to give that up yet.

Is this dry spell we're experiencing global warming or just typical New England weather where, as the saying goes, "wait a minute, it'll change" ? Hope it does and soon!!

 

 

 

Comments

[Liz Charest]

Some of my most favorite drought tolerant plants are Echinacea (purple coneflower), Black Eyed Susan, daylilies, globe thistle, sea holly, yarrow and ornamental grasses. They seem to thrive in hot, dry conditions!