Tips for Gardening in a Drought
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Durham, NC -- Duke Gardens experts say it is possible to have a flourishing garden during a drought, if you follow some general rules:
Plant in the fall when the ground is still warm and dormant plants can establish roots
Focus new plantings on shade trees and shrubs, which will slow rain evaporation
Choose plants with grey foliage, or hairy, velvety leaves
Plant bulbs that are adapted to alternating wet and dry seasons in April or May
Use mulch like pine bark, hardwood and cypress to help keep soil moist
Use composting to keep soils healthy and help retain moisture
Once water restrictions are lifted, use drip irrigation instead of soaker hoses
Catch rainwater runoff from the roof with canisters or trash bins
Consider drought-tolerant alternatives to a green lawn, such as ornamental grasses
Use sand or gravel in soggy areas to store water for a “rain garden”
