The Beloved Garden 16

Common name:Mexican Hat
Botanical name:Ratibida columnaris

This unusual perennial forms large dense mounds 2' tall 1' wide. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. The tall center cone rises above deep maroon petals that are tinged with yellow tips, and the long-lasting flowers literally cover the plant all summer and into the fall. This is a good cut flower.

Common name:Navajo Willow, Globe Willow
Botanical name:Salix matsudana

Salix matsudana is a beautiful deciduous tree that is useful for erosion control or for shade. It is more drought tolerant that other species of willows. It is fast growing and can reach 50' in height. Its habit is globed shaped. Bare branches make wonderful dried flower arrangements because of the twisting shoots. Leaves are bright green, lance shaped and twisted. This tree is striking in the winter because of the twisted branches.

Common name:Big Blue Stem
Botanical name:Andropogon gererdii

Big Blue Stem is a medium sized ornamental grass that can grow to 6 feet in height. It is hardy and is best left to naturalize.

Common name:Hesperaloe Yellow
Botanical name:Hesperaloe parviflora 'Yellow'

Upright succulent grows quickly to 3' x 5'. The yellow flower stalks emerge in spring and remain on the plant until the end of summer. Dark green strappy leaves. Plants tolerate drought, full sun, reflected heat, poor soils, and frost.

Soils and Compost:

Maintain a two to four inch layer of mulch on the soil surface to reduce weeds, infiltrate rain water, and reduce compaction.

Water Saving Tip:

As the weather gets hotter avoid the temptation to increase run times.

Instead, schedule more start times with one to two hours in between to allow the water from the previous session to soak in before watering again.

Integrated Pest Management:

Drip and other smart irrigation delivers water directly to roots, allowing no excess water for weeds.