The plants in this garden are hardy and low-maintenance. Depending on the climate and soil conditions, they may grow up to six inches a year. Here, Gilmer chooses green and gray Santolinas for between the stone pavers and the Banana Split Yucca looks great potted because the additional height keeps its long leaves from splaying on the ground (figure A). Expert Tip (Bart O'Brien, horticulturist): You can find drought tolerant plants everywhere. The term "drought tolerant" typically means that the plants simply don't require much water. Instructions: - Plant one Santolina between each stone paver, alternating colors to further emphasize the checkerboard design.
- Mulch the entire area to dress the ground and help the soil retain moisture. The finished garden has a classical design that shows off the variety and beauty of drought -resistant plants (figure B).
Be careful not to cover up the irrigation system emitters. The holes are small and can be easily clogged (figure C). - Test the drip system by turning on the water at the outlet. Make sure each emitter is working. If an emitter is clogged, remove it and rinse with water.
FYI: - If the water in the two-feet wide, two-feet deep hole for your drainage test takes more than a day to drain, you have problem drainage. To correct this, you might consider raising the surface of the soil in your planting area by spreading at least six inches of new topsoil. This will prevent the most important part of the plant for drainage -- from the root crown at the base of the plant extending six inches into the root ball -- from becoming waterlogged (figure D). Elevating the plants will help keep them dry enough to thrive.
GUESTS :
Bart O'Brien
Director of Horticulture, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens
E-mail: bart.obrien@cgu.edu
Website: www.rsabg.org
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