Plants in containers will always be at a disadvantage when it comes to water. Without the insulating earth to protect them, their roots can dry out quickly in summer heat. Succulents and other desert plants are well adapted to hot, dry conditions, making them the default option for drought tolerant containers. But experience has taught me that many perennials, shrubs, and annuals will graciously accept a more relaxed watering schedule than the daily drench that many potted plants require. The containers on the following pages contain some of my favorites, which should need to be watered only once or twice a week, even during the hottest days of summer. A cool collection of foliage shines in the shade Siting containers out of direct sun is a great water-saving strategy; soil stays cooler, so there’s less evaporation. All of the plants in this foliage-focused grouping will thrive in your favorite shady…
This article is only available to All Access members
This article is available online for the first time ever exclusively for All Access members. Sign up for a free trial to access our entire collection of articles, videos, and plant records.
Happy holidays, LAAP listeners! It’s hard to believe that another gardening season is now (nearly) in the books. As we think ahead to the New Year—and spring 2020—we’re thinking about…
Each region of the United States does the holidays a little differently. From how we decorate to what we eat, geography and climate have an impact on the ways we…
Today we’re taking one last trip to the beautiful gardens of Heronswood (check out the first post in the series for more on this iconic garden) with a final set…
Today Marion Taylor is sharing some of her memories from the past summer. She gardens in Zone 3, in Manitoba, Canada. We’ve visited her beautiful garden before (Making a Beautiful…
Starting Seeds Starting seeds is an easy and affordable way to get more plants, but getting them off to a good start can be tricky if you've never done it…
Comments
Log in or become a member to post a comment on this article.
Start Your FREE Trial Log in