Water, Water, Water!
There are a few reasons why plants wilt however, the most common reason plants wilt is from a lack of water.
Turgor Pressure is Important
Plants wilt when there isn’t enough water in their leaves and stems to support them. When turgor pressure in the leaves and stems is low, the plants start to appear droopy.
Do you remember Grade 10 biology when the teacher discussed osmosis? It is the movement of water across a membrane from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.
When there is insufficient water in the soil surrounding plant roots, the roots struggle to absorb enough water to maintain high turgor pressure in the leaves and stems. As a result, the plant begins to wilt and loses its turgor. However, after a good rain or watering, plants will perk up again as the roots absorb water through osmosis, distributing it to the leaves and stems. That’s the science of how plants work!
Why is it importance to keep plants from wilting?
One of the main reasons plants suffer is cell damage. When plants lack water and begin to wilt, inner cells shrink. Over time, whether caused by insufficient rain or forgetting to water, this damage can be seen as dark, round spots on leaves and stems or as dead foliage. You may also notice dry, brown edges on the leaves. Additionally, flower buds may not form properly or could appear deformed when they bloom. If plants are left without water for too long, they will eventually wither and die.
With our summers so hot and dry, selecting the right plant for hot, dry locations becomes very important.
Perennials for Hot, Dry Locations
Plants with tuberous roots possess a remarkable ability to store moisture, allowing them to thrive even during periods of drought. One striking example of this resilience is the daylily, a vibrant and versatile flower well-suited for hot, arid environments. With their robust tuberous roots, daylilies not only endure challenging conditions but also flourish, bringing a burst of color and beauty to the landscape even in the most demanding climates.
Here are some magnificent perennials with tuberous or bulbous roots, perfectly suited for thriving in hot, dry locations.
Flag Iris
Iris plants boast robust, fleshy roots and rhizomes that resemble plump carrots, serving as remarkable reservoirs for moisture and essential nutrients. These adaptations enable the plants to thrive in hot and arid conditions, drawing upon their stored resources to endure periods of drought with resilience and grace.
Peony (Paeonia)
Peonies have fibrous, tuberous roots that provide impressive drought tolerance once established. When planting, position the tubers one to two inches beneath the soil surface; planting too deeply may result in lush foliage but few blooms. Proper planting depth is essential for achieving their full floral potential.
Stonecrop (Sedum)
Sedum plants have shallow, sprawling roots that efficiently capture water and nutrients in dry conditions. With their fleshy leaves and sturdy stems designed to store moisture, they thrive in arid environments, enhancing drought tolerance and making them great choices for water-conscious gardens.
Crocosmia
Crocosmia is a perennial that blooms in August, featuring tall, sword-like leaves and vibrant flowers on arching stems. It grows from bulbous bulbs, which provide high drought tolerance by storing water and nutrients. While it needs plenty of water when first planted, it requires minimal moisture once established.
If you prefer not to water frequently, choose plants with small leaves, as they thrive in drier conditions. Here are my recommendations for flowering perennials with small foliage that thrive in hot locations.
Yarrow (Achillea)
Yarrow has never been my top choice, but the vibrant ‘Firefly’ series from Proven Winners is changing my mind. This resilient plant thrives in poor soil and arid conditions. Its delicate, fuzzy delicate foliage not only looks appealing but also helps keep the plant cool during hot summer days. With extensive roots and fuzzy leaves that minimize water loss, yarrow is ideal for sun-drenched areas where other plants may struggle.
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias)
Vibrant clusters of brilliant orange flowers on this resilient, clump-forming plant love hot sun and sandy soils. Its narrow, glossy, green foliage is crucial in redirecting winds. The flowers act as a magnet, attracting Monarch butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. With its deep taproot, this wildflower thrives in dry, sandy, or rocky soils. However, it does not like heavy clay or wet soil conditions.
Threadleaf Tickseed (Coreopsis)
Coreopsis features small, hairy leaves that help redirect wind from the plant. Its daisy-like flowers bloom in early summer. This drought-tolerant perennial thrives in poor soil and can produce flowers for weeks if deadheaded. Coreopsis ‘Moonbeam’ is a popular low-growing perennial for hot gardens. Note – it will self-seed!
Globe Thistle (Echinops)
Globe thistle is often underutilized in gardens. This plant is an excellent addition to the late summer landscape when paired with ornamental grasses and Black-eyed Susans. Globe thistle develops a long taproot, allowing it to thrive in drought conditions. Its spiny, hairy, silvery-green foliage helps protect it from drying winds. The plants produce small globe-shaped flowers, about two inches in diameter. The stunning flowers attract bees and other pollinating insects. Globe thistle is best placed in poor but well-drained soils. It can and will self-seed!
Lenton Rose (Helleborus)
If you’re looking for a fantastic spring-flowering perennial, Hellebores are the ones for you! Their thick, waxy green foliage provides a protective barrier against harsh winds and summer heat. Although Hellebores are drought-tolerant once established, they require watering when first planted. They thrive in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, so leaving fallen leaves around the plant can help provide the necessary nutrients. Hellebores can bloom for up to six weeks, showcasing beautiful flowers alongside attractive foliage throughout the summer.
Catmint (Nepeta)
Catmint features a natural, deep root system that allows it to access moisture deep within the soil, making it an excellent choice for hot, dry gardens. Its thick, hairy, grey-green leaves help minimize water loss during drying winds and summer heat. This plant blooms for up to six weeks, and you can encourage repeat blooms by deadheading. Additionally, it attracts flying visitors such as butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees, all while offering fragrant foliage. One of my favourite perennials for hot, dry gardens is ‘Cats Pajamas.’
Meadow Sage (Salvia)
Maynight salvia is a popular perennial choice for many cottage gardens. Its deep and extensive root system allows it to search for water, while its waxy or hairy leaves help reduce moisture loss caused by dry winds. This attractive, upright-growing perennial serves as an excellent substitute for lavender. It has a long bloom time—up to six weeks—then cutback and it will rebloom in late summer. Additionally, it attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees!
PowWow Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
PowWow Wildberry Coneflower is a seed-grown variety of echinacea that will bloom consistently the same colour and size every season. This stocky, shorter variety features three to four-inch deep purple-pink to magenta flowers with green, hairy foliage on a well-branched plant. Thanks to its hairy leaves, extensive root systems, and low water needs, PowWow Wildberry is an excellent low-maintenance perennial. It attracts winged friends like butterflies, songbirds, and bees to any sunny, south-facing garden.
Water your plants before they wilt to keep them healthy and happy, and choose perennials that will thrive in hot conditions. Placing perennials in a hot environment without sufficient water will only lead to disappointment for you and your plants.
Lexi Dearborn