As we swelter and simmer in the searing sun, we must stop for a moment to think of our fellow heat victims… our lawns and gardens! Unlike us, they can’t sit in the shade sipping lemonade or relax in front of the air conditioner. They rely on us to help them stay refreshed during dry periods.

One good option that doesn’t waste water, which is a pretty important consideration during a drought, is to install an http://www.hunterindustries.com/”>irrigation system.  These systems drip water slowly, directly to the roots, giving your lawn and garden that long drink of water they so desperately need.

If installing a full irrigation system isn’t in your budget right now, consider installing a hose bib timer with a soaker hose. You’ll get most of the benefit of an irrigation system for a fraction of the price and your plants will love you for it!

Although it might seem like keeping a short lawn will use less water, thus keeping it greener, you will actually be doing it a favor by letting it grow a bit longer. If you cut your grass too short, the grass will get stressed and get burned out. Letting it grow will allow it to “rest” a little, and it will look and feel much healthier in return.

To help drought-proof your garden in the future, consider replacing some of your needier plants with more drought-resistant plants. Some good choices include:

– Shrub roses
– Ornamental grasses
– Sage
– Eucalyptus
– Lavender
– Honeysuckle

As an added benefit, many of these plants are wonderfully fragrant and will give your garden a whole new dimension.

As a last resort, you can always replace the lawn and garden with decorative gravel and cobblestones. They’ll never need watering and will always look nice, regardless of what Mother Nature decides to throw at you!

To talk more about your lawn and garden, and maintaining it in all kinds of weather, come visit us at the First Sunday Festival in Annapolis!

Tags: Annapolis, Edgewater, Garden, green landscaping, Landscape Annapolis, Landscaping Design, maryland, Watering Lawn