Water-wise Garden Tour

Texas Discovery Gardens

Appropriate Plants

 

In North Texas we are fortunate to have many native and adaptive plants that are naturally adapted to the region. You can find a wide range of trees, shrubs, plants and ground covers that 1) have lower water demands, 2) present fewer pest problems and 3) require less fertilizer.

When selecting plants always consider the mature size of the plant. A plant that outgrows the space available will require pruning and may crowd other plants located nearby. There is a wide variety of foliage colors and textures to choose from.

Some plants bloom the entire growing season and others only once or twice a year. For year-round color select a mix of plants that bloom at different times. Also include plants that attract wildlife, such as butterflies, hummingbirds and other beautiful bird species.

Hydrozoning is the practice of grouping plants with similar water needs together. Every landscape has numerous microclimates with different light, soil and water requirements. The most effective approach is to create microclimate hydrozones so that plants with the highest water needs are closest to the house, with the least thirsty plants on the perimeter of the landscape.