This past year was a good example of how it can get really dry out there. Drought conditions are something we can try to plan for in the landscaping. Another word for this is “Xeriscaping”. Here are some things to consider:

• Use 3” of mulch in your landscape beds.  The mulch helps conserve water for the plants.

• Keep the grass a little longer.  It will help shade the ground and conserve water.

• Use of a ‘Soil Moist’ type of product in annuals baskets will release water back to the soil slowly so you won’t need to water your baskets quite as frequently.

• An irrigation system, especially if pulled from a lake, is an important consideration.

• If possible or practical, you could consider using ‘Rain Barrels’ to gather roof water.

• Use of ‘Drought tolerant’ plants is essential.  Plants that handle drought are generally plants that have deep roots and can reach further down for water.  Many times they are natives.  You’ll definitely need to water them to get them established, but they handle drought much better than some other plants after they’re established and have deep roots. 

Here’s a list of a few "Drought tolerant" plants to consider:

Colorado Blue Spruce

Crabapple

Bur Oak

Amur Maple

Mugo Pine

Juniper

Chokeberry

Yucca

Lilac

Yarrow

Agastache

Nepeta

Russian Sage

Bee Balm

Coreopsis