Summers in the southeast and mid-Atlantic states can often be very hot and very dry. Very dry. And when it feels like 100 degrees outside, the sun is beating on you and you look outside at all your beautiful flowers struggling outside, knowing you have to water them AGAIN, it can sometimes be a struggle. A real struggle. But you can make things easier on yourself by planting drought tolerant perennials to brighten your outdoors. There are plenty of varieties available. The color, size and texture variations are many and finding the right plants for your yard will be a fun adventure.
Here are a few of our favorites.
Coreopsis, also called tickseed, is a great choice. It’s easy to grow, loves the sun and doesn’t mind if your soil isn’t optimal. In fact, it easily thrives in poor soil. Once established, it is quite drought tolerant.
Gaura is a popular choice in gardens and containers, not only because of its drought tolerance but also for it’s whimsical appearance. It’s a naturally growing wildflower in North America, but avid gardeners have developed new varieties and there are now many hybrids available.
Kniphofia, popularly called Red Hot Poker, is a true sun lover. While it doesn’t mind heat or dry conditions, you do need to water it well during it’s bloom time so you don’t lose that color too quickly. They create a stunning display and you’re likely to see them in sunny yards when driving through the countryside of coastal Virginia and Carolina.
Nepetas, commonly known as catmint, are super easy to grow in hot, dry areas. The bonus to their ease is that they will give you a lovely display of color all summer long. Why are they known as catmint? If you cut a stem, you’ll catch the aroma, to which cats have a natural attraction to.
