A:     In our Mediterranean climate, it is wise to consider using plants that can survive with little supplementary water. Whether or not drought conditions continue, it is unlikely that California will ever receive the significant summer moisture needed to keep gardens green. There are a variety of plants that fall into the drought tolerant category. Some are endowed with leaf hairs that diminish air movement across the leaf surface, lessening evaporation. Some drought tolerant plants have leaves with a waxy coating, reducing water lost by evaporation. Drought tolerant plants often have thick leaves and/or enlarged roots that store and utilize whatever water is available to them. Many California natives are good choices for gardens with little water. Yarrow, Ceanothus, coyote bush, coral bells, succulents, and matelija poppies fall into this category. Many Mediterranean plants are also suited to arid climates. Agapanthus, plumbago, breath of heaven, fortnight lily, pride of Madeira, crane?s bill, Gaura, coast rosemary, and lavender are drought tolerant and thrive in Central Coast gardens. Once your new plants are established, you may not need supplemental water for many of these California natives and Mediterranean plants to survive.

Blue ceanothus under yellow flannel bush Copyright UC Regents

A visit to the San Luis Obispo County Botanical Garden will give you an opportunity to see drought tolerant plants growing in an environment that uses little water. A visit to their website at www.slobg.org/WaterConservingplants.htm will provide you with a list of some excellent choices for a water-frugal landscape, or call the number below. Websites mentioned are sites outside of the University of California domain. No endorsement is intended of products, services or information, nor is criticism implied of similar sites that are not mentioned.