As UK summers become increasingly hot and dry, it is crucial to choose plants that can thrive with minimal water. Renowned gardener and author Sarah Raven recommends introducing drought-tolerant plants to maintain a lively and vibrant garden while being environmentally considerate.
Sarah said: "There are many ways that we can ensure we are being considerate of the environment whilst also maintaining the beauty, colour, and joy of our outside havens...One of the simplest things you can do is to introduce drought-tolerant plants to keep your garden looking lively and vibrant without the need for excessive watering."
Lavandula 'Hidcote'
Sarah describes Lavandula 'Hidcote' as "the most floriferous of the compact lavenders," with beautiful purple-blue flowers rich in pollen and nectar, attracting bees and butterflies. Adapted to the Mediterranean climate, it is both heat and drought-tolerant. The flowers are edible and can flavour cocktails, syrups, sorbets, and salads. In autumn, trim back the spikes without cutting into the woody stem to maintain the plant.
Pelargonium
Pelargoniums boast striking pink blooms in containers or borders. They are not particularly thirsty but require regular watering. Sarah advises: "You should water and feed the plants well in the summer and deadhead to encourage a second flush of flowers."
Eryngium 'Picos Blue'
This sea holly variety is "one of the bluest" and needs full sun and free-draining soil. Its sharp spikes make it best planted away from edges or paths, especially where children play. It attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with nectar-rich flowers. Avoid root disturbance and ensure well-drained soil.
Limonium 'Dazzle Rocks'
These plants produce pink-purple blooms that draw pollinators. Drought-tolerant and heat-resistant, they thrive in pots or borders.
Salvia 'Cardonna'
Sarah notes that Salvia 'Cardonna' produces long spikes up to 60cm. It is a drought-tolerant perennial that performs best in sunny, free-draining soil. Purple flowers appear from June to October; cut back in early summer to encourage later flowering.
Gaura 'Lindheimeri'
This plant is ideal for pathways or flower beds, either in arrangements or as a standalone feature. Plant in a sunny spot; it flowers from June to August and is easy to care for year-round.
Verbena 'Bonariensis'
Sarah says these plants "produce an absolutely stunning display of purple flowers at head height from late summer through to autumn and are shrouded in confetti or butterflies as soon as there is a glimpse of sunshine." They are drought-tolerant perennials requiring little maintenance, but protect them with a layer of leaf mould or compost mulch in autumn.
