While we enjoyed the recent rains, gardeners in North Central Texas know that drought is a recurring character in the landscape story. Blazing sun, dry winds and weeks without measurable rainfall test even the most seasoned gardener. However, with thoughtful preparation landscapes can be resilient as well as beautiful.

In dry climates, soil is everything. Many local soils consist of heavy clay. Clay holds water, but when it dries it becomes hard and cracked. Less common are the area’s sandy soils. They are challenging because they drain too quickly and hold less moisture. In both cases, soil structure may be improved by incorporating compost before planting. Organic matter helps soil to absorb and retain water more efficiently, which benefits plant roots.

Additional soil improvement strategies include mulching and deep, infrequent watering. Mulch moderates soil temperature, reduces evaporation and prevents crusting. Apply 2-3 inches of shredded hardwood mulch atop other partially composted materials such as leaves. Deep watering once or twice a week in the absence of rain encourages roots to grow downwards and builds strong, drought-tolerant root systems.

Ironically, poor drainage is a big threat to drought tolerant plants, which generally prefer well-drained soil. Incorporating compost into the top layers of the soil will improve its structure. In heavy clay areas, the addition of expanded shale will increase air pockets and permeability. Avoid planting drought-tolerant plants in low-lying areas where water collects. Also, consider gardening in raised beds, which provide excellent well-drained environments for plants.

This spring, design your landscape with drought in mind. Gardens need not be sparse; simply plan wisely. Group plants with similar water needs together. Incorporate features such as dry creek beds that create visual interest without increasing water demand. Provide afternoon shade for sensitive plants by using tall shrubs, trees or structures. Reduce the amount of lawn grass, which demands the most water of any landscape, and replace it with hardscape, planting beds, ornamental grasses, native perennials or groundcovers.

Efficient watering practices make a dramatic difference during drought. For example, water early in the morning to reduce evaporation. Use drip irrigation, which delivers water directly to plant roots. Install rain barrels to collect runoff during storms. Check sprinkler systems for leaks and misdirected spray. And avoid frequent, shallow watering, which weakens root systems and increases plant stress.

To protect plants during extreme heat, avoid fertilizing, which stimulates tender new growth. Delay any planting until fall. Continue mulching to keep the roots moist and cool. And remember, even drought-tolerant plants need consistent moisture during their first growing season while roots establish.

Select plants for their appearance and resilience. Consider planting drought-tolerant bulbous plants such as iris, natives like Blackfoot daisy in dry, rocky spaces, Autumn sage (Salvia greggii) for its ability to thrive and bloom in dry, alkaline soils, Lindheimer muhly grass for movement, structure and graceful plumes, Texas betony for its bright red tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and red yucca for its succulent, evergreen nature and its brightly-colored flower spikes. Texas tough annuals include zinnias, moss rose, gomphrena and cosmos.

By improving soil, selecting climate-appropriate plants, watering wisely and embracing thoughtful design, your garden can remain colorful and inviting even through long, dry spells. Learn to garden wisely understanding the vagaries of our Texas climate.

Written and Photographed by LGMG Phyllis Webster