What's New at PPM

North Carolina's abundant, diverse, and colorful native wildflowers teach us many lessons, if only we would listen. One of those lessons is that plant species differ in their tolerance to prolonged dry conditions. We can observe this when we notice the kind of habitats where our native plants grow. For example, the natural habitate of Butterfly Milkweed - a pretty orange wildflower - is dry prairies, fields, and roadsides. Drought-tolerant species presumably evolved in places and soils prone to drought.

Research and experience show that reducing demand for water is the first important step in water conservation. As local officials annouce water restrictions, we invite you to think and plan for the upcoming gardening season with water conservation in mind.

Periods of drought are not uncommon during the growing season in the Piedmont, and could become more frequent and extensive in a period of climate change. Gardens provide beauty, comfort, and sustenance to people, pollinators, and wildlife.

We can reduce the water needs of our gardens by using drought tolerant plants with the below suggestions:

• Plant in spring and fall, giving plants a chance to get established and expand their root systems before the hottest weather and/or drought.
• Water early in the morning or evening to avoid direct water loss.
• Water slowly and by hand or with a soaker hose to avoid water interception by plant surfaces.
• Water deeply to encourage deep healthy root systems.
• Apply mulch to help keep roots cool and moist once your plant beds are damp.
• Consider alternate sources of water. One alternative is to store and use rainwater in rain barrels.