On Saturday, the ladies of the Westmont Garden Club visited the Resource Connection where the Tarrant County Master Gardeners often offer classes. This one was Strive and Thrive in the Drought.
We were reminded that some plants go dormant in the hot Texas summer and drop leaves to conserve moisture or eliminate the need for it. Like in the winter months, it's not wise to pull up perennials that may be dormant and not dead.
Suggested plants that withstand the Texas heat:
Border:
Katie Ruellia (Mexican Petunia)
Bedding:
Purple Coneflower/Echinacea purpurea (Asteraceae)
Blue Mist Flower
Shade Flowers
Turk's Cap
Low Growing Shrub
Texas Lantana
Other suggestions:
Autumn Sage
Rock Rose
Flame Acanthus
Yaupon Holly
Texas Sage/Texas Ranger Sage
Note: Drought tolerant plants need ample water the first year of planting.