Image of Geranium taken from Wikipedia

Image of Geranium taken from Wikipedia

A garden is a perfect addition to any outdoor landscape, but this can be a difficult thing to manage in Arizona or any other dry, desert climate. With an average annual rainfall of only 9.2 inches in Gilbert, a garden of drought resistant plants can help bring your yard to life while not being a drain on your resources such as time and water. Drought resistant plants also hold up better to the extreme heat of Arizona summers and tend to be hardier and sturdier plants in general. While many people assume drought resistant plants mean dull, boring or even dangerous (think cactus), there are numerous plants you can find of this variety that are vibrant and colorful.

If you are looking for plants to add to your garden or anywhere around your yard, drought resistant plants are an easy way to add life and give your landscape that “professionally designed” look.

Generally, drought resistant plants should be heavily mulched, as this will help them retain water during the dry, hot Arizona summer days. Flowers are one type of plant that is not usually synonymous with drought resistance, but you would be surprised as to how many different varieties there are. Whether you are looking for flowers to help spruce up a front yard flower bed or to devote a garden entirely to them, there is no shortage from which to choose. Some varieties include:

  • Dahlberg daisies
  • Baby’s breath
  • Geraniums
  • Lupine
  • Sunflowers
  • Alyssum
  • Zinnia
  • Statice
  • Lavendar

There are also different herbs that are especially drought resistant if you are looking to add a nice scent to an area of your yard. Thyme, oregano and mint are just a few varieties that are sure to be found in many gardens and landscapes across Arizona.

While these flowers and herbs are just a handful of things that can liven up an Arizona garden or landscape there are many others species and varieties of plants that could work. Have you had success gardening or designing your landscape in Arizona or another desert climate. Let us know in the comments!