Gardening with drought resistant plants

Australia is the driest continent on earth, with only small parts of the country able to support lush, green gardens like those we see in Europe. Many of the water-hungry plants that have traditionally been seen in our gardens are not really suitable for the dry conditions here. And with water restrictions set to stay, if you want to ensure a healthy garden, it's time to start thinking about drought resistant plants.

The most drought resistant plants of all are indigenous to the drier parts of Australia. These plants have evolved to be able to survive and prosper with very little water and in sometimes extreme conditions. This group of plants includes grasses, groundcovers, shrubs and trees.

When selecting a drought resistant plant, look for varieties with small, hard or hairy leaves. And then of course there are succulents and cacti. With their water-storing stems and leaves, they are making a comeback in gardening in Australia. 

But it's not only Australian native plants that survive well on little water. Many plants that come from parts of the world with similar conditions to Australia can also do well here. Varieties from the Mediterranean (such as rosemary, lavender and thyme), California (agave), Mexico (Mexican orange blossom) and South Africa (African daisy and treasure flower) are all drought resistant plants, allowing them to prosper in dry conditions.

Many exotic plants that are associated with traditional gardens are also quite drought tolerant, such as camellias, ornamental pears, Chinese lanterns, rhododendrons, gardenias and, of course, roses. Once established, many of these drought resistant plants are as tough as old boots.

Just because a plant is drought tolerant doesn't mean that you can plant it and forget it. Drought resistant plants can get by on very little water and maintenance, but a bit of extra attention can ensure that they prosper.

When watering, make sure you provide the plants with a good long drink occasionally, rather than short drinks; and water in the evening and morning rather than during the day. This will ensure they are better able to cope with those inevitable times when they receive almost no water.

Because Australia is such a huge and diverse continent, the best way to choose drought resistant plants is to ask your local nursery, or consult a horticultural specialist. They will be able to direct you to drought resistant plants that will bring vibrant life to your garden without sucking up huge amounts of water.