Source: Martha Smith (309) 836-2363 Contact: Bob Sampson (217) 244-0225 Extension Communications Specialist e-mail: rsampson@uiuc.edu
There's nothing like the dog days of August to reduce the beauty of a garden, said a University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator.
"Every year, we notice that certain plants are beautiful until the heat arrives," said Martha Smith. "They fade and wither, leaving us with only the memories of what once was. And watering to keep the plants looking good can become a problem during times of high heat and no rainfall.
"With the proper planning, however, your garden can look its best all season long."
Low-water usage gardening has gained increasing interest in recent years. This type of gardening is known as xeriscaping.
"The term 'xeriscape' often brings visions of parched desert landscapes," said Smith. "But a xeriscape can be colorful, attractive, and inviting while requiring far less water than traditional landscapes. By following a few basic tips, you can be on your way to using less water and still enjoy a colorful garden."
--Plants should be grouped according to water needs--plant thirsty plants in the same area so when watering you can concentrate on specific areas rather than blanket watering.
--Build soil lips or soil basins around plants to direct water to plant roots. Depending on plant size, this basin should be three to 18 inches from the base of the plant.
--Mulch the garden to retain soil moisture.
--Keep beds weed-free. Weeds take up water that could be used by desirable plant material.
--If soil drains too quickly, amend it by adding moisture-holding organic matter.
--Pick the right plant for the right spot. Choose plants that thrive in hot, dry conditions.
"There are some popular blooming 'dog days' plants to consider," Smith said.
Celosia or cockscomb (Celosia argentea var. plumosa or C. argentea var. cristata) is unique for its unusual feathery or brain-like flowers of bright red, yellow, orange, and pink. Celosia is an annual that may grow from six inches to four feet in height depending on the variety. Bring fresh-cut celosia inside for an excellent cut flower, or hang it to dry.
Spider flower (Cleome hassleriana) can reach four to five feet in height in full sun. The unique spider-like flowers are rose, violet, or wine. Cleome is an annual, meaning it grows from seed every year. It will re-seed freely in the garden.
Gomphrena or Globe Amaranth (Gomphrena globosa) blooms in a variety of bright colors including purple, orange, red, rose, and pink. It generally grows to one to two feet in height. It is an old-fashioned flower that is easy to grow and makes an excellent dried flower that holds color well. For dried flowers, pick the flowers just as they open fully and then hang them upside down to dry.
Madagascar Periwinkle or Annual Vinca (Catharanthus roseus) is a plant that seems to thrive in hot areas. Its lush, dark-green foliage is somewhat glossy and forms a two-foot tall mound. Annual vinca is available in white, pink, purple, and bi-colors. If you have a difficult southern exposure to work with, Smith recommended trying this annual. It is slow to start if spring temperatures are cool and it does not tolerate wet areas.
Threadleaf Coreopsis (Coreopsis verticillata) is a perennial that will reach 18 to 24 inches in height. It has yellow, daisy-like flowers that last from late spring to late summer. It works best if grown in a dry, full-sun area.
Orange Coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida) is the perennial form of Black-eyed Susan. Its cheery, yellow-orange daisy flowers brighten up the August garden.
Blanket Flower (Gaillardai species) is a perennial available in a variety of hot colors from golden yellow to mahogany red. Cultivars are available in a range of sizes with most growing in the two-foot in height range. Blanker Flower tolerates dry soil and temperatures of 90-degrees-plus.
"All of these plants will survive the hot days of August with very little attention and care except an occasional pruning-off of the old blossoms," said Smith. "Try one or two next year and enjoy your garden all season long."
