We live here in Texas, with some very intense summers. We have many customers wanting drought-tolerant perennials, and rightfully so. But the term “drought tolerant” may lead you to believe you don’t have to water them because they can handle dry conditions. However, this is only partially true: you still need to water drought-tolerant perennials, especially if this is the first year of planting. They need to establish their roots before they become genuinely drought-tolerant.

So what does this mean for you? You’ll want to start by planting perennials in a 50/50 mix of Covington’s Soil Builder and native soil. Once planted, be sure to mulch around your plants. It’s best to water by hand with a hose at least three times a week unless we get substantial rainfall.

The good news is they establish pretty quickly, so you only have to do this the first summer. By the second summer, keep them mulched, but you won’t have to water nearly as much. Sit back and enjoy the beauty you’ve created with your lovely new perennials! Before you know it, you’ll have a relatively maintenance-free garden.

Check out Gardening with Texas Tough Perennials here