D on’t be fooled by all the wet, cool weather Western Washington has been receiving, warn officials at the state Department of Ecology.
Nearly all of the Pacific Northwest remains in a drought, and the effects will be more noticeable once summer kicks into gear.
One of the best ways to conserve water in the long-term is to incorporate drought-tolerant plants, including natives, into the landscape, said Holly Kennell, a Washington State University Extension agent who writes a monthly column, NW Garden, for Home &Garden.
There are hundreds of drought-tolerant plants to choose from – just about any color, leaf texture or growth habit a gardener could dream of is available.
When it comes to adding drought-tolerant plants think long-term. All plants – including those that are drought tolerant – require more water than average until they’re established, Kennell said. That usually takes about two seasons.
Don’t let that deter you from adding drought tolerant plants this summer – just do it smartly.
“Start thinking immediately about zoning,” Kennell said. By zoning, she means grouping water lovers together in part of the yard and those that require less water in another.
When you move that hydrangea, replace it with something drought tolerant. Then water the new comer by hand until it’s established rather than blanketing the whole area with the sprinkler.
Many plants that aren’t particularly drought tolerant can get by on less water when they’re planted in the right place. Even a rhododendron can thrive on little water when the soil is properly amended and it’s planted in a shady spot, she said.
Kennel recommends:
* Adding a layer of mulch to planting beds .
* Installing drip irrigation.
* Collecting rainwater for reuse .
* Watering less frequently but deeply.
She puts her own advice to practice. In the summer she waters her yard only once deeply during July and August. She may water once in June and September if those months are particularly dry. Otherwise her garden requires no more water.
Ready to give it a try? Check out the plant lists provided by Peggy Campbell, a horticulturist at Molbak’s in Woodinville.
Reporter Debra Smith: 425-339-3197 or dsmith@heraldnet.com.
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