Summer is a moment of the year when the garden becomes a real challenge. The sun breaks the stones, the leaves burn, the soil becomes tough like cement, the watering phases become a daily effort. Those who have green thumb know well: Keeping a green corner alive under the August sun can be transformed into a full -time jobwhich does not leave a moment of breath. Don’t panic, because there is an alternative, an intelligent, simple and completely sustainable way: the one that passes through the choice of the right plants.
The secret for a lush summer garden and low maintenance lies in changing perspective. Forget the English grass always green, the thirsty hydrangeas, the geraniums in need of daily treatments and start observing how nature grows where water is scarce. Plants that survive in arid areas not only resist, but often bloom with elegance, without particular pretensions and without waste.
The concept of sustainable garden
When it comes to sustainable garden, the first image that comes to mind is that of a space that lives in harmony with the climate, which does not waste resources and that does not ask for excessive treatments. A garden that adapts, rather than being tamed. It is not a question of renouncing the beauty, nor of creating a bare landscape, on the contrary, A surprisingly lush effect can be obtained simply by choosing those plants used to surviving with little water.
The sustainable garden is built with some simple rule: Avoid continuous irrigation, limit the use of fertilizers, choose native or Mediterranean essences. The goal? Reduce water stress, save time and also make the environment happy.
Plants that do not fear drought
Let’s talk about robust plants, which know what it means to face a torrid summer. They do not complain, they do not ask for continuous attention. Some come from arid environments, others have adapted to live with very little water.
Aeonium
Among the succulents, the Aeonium is among the most fascinating. The fleshy rosettes seem carved in the wax, often with shades ranging from light green to dark purple. He lives well in full sun, adapts to the intense heat and needs very little water. Once established in the soil or pot, it is easily forgotten. In summer he closes slightly on himself to protect himself, and then returns luxuriantly with the arrival of the rains. Elegant, silent and absolutely scenic.
Rosemary
In addition to being useful in the kitchen, rosemary is one of the hardest plants to die. It tolerates the drought like few others and grows luxuriantly even among the rocks. It can be grown in pots, in the ground, such as low hedge or isolated bush. And he always brings with him that pungent and familiar aroma.
Agave
Sculptor, almost alien, the agave is a plant that does not forget easily. It also lives well where it does not rain for months, it needs space, full light and zero care. The fleshy leaves store water and the plant defends itself from parasites and drought.
Sedum
There are dozens of varieties. All succulent, simple, and above all suitable for dry climates. The sedum is perfect for filling the empty spaces, to decorate walls or borders. Some species bloom with small starry flowers, creating colored rugs that last for weeks.
Euphorbia
Euphorbia is a truly incredible plant, which behind the green and slender stems hides an extraordinary force. He does not ask for irrigation, grows in any type of soil and has a minimalist charm. Some varieties also become very high, creating real decorative bushes.
Caper
Those who live near the sea know him well. The capero (scientific name Capparis spinosa) is a rustic plant, with delicate flowers and tenacious roots, which also grows between stones, dry walls and cliffs. It can also be grown in pots, and with a little patience it will give buds to be kept.
Artemisia
Argentea, soft, ethereal, Artemisia has an elegant bearing and an aspect that illuminates the garden, even in the hottest hours. He resists drought and smells the air with his aromatic leaves. It is perfect alongside Mediterranean plants, to create delicate contrasts.
Mulch: your invisible ally
One of the most effective techniques to reduce the evaporation of water from the ground is called mulch. In simple words, the ground is covered with a layer of material: cortex, dry leaves, straw or gravel. In this way it is possible to protect the roots from the sun, to maintain the soil fresh and to limit the growth of weeds. It is a small gesture, but makes a big difference.
The lawn? Better alternative
The English lawn is a myth that is difficult to maintain with the summer heat. Alternatively, drought resistant lids can be used, including the dwarf clover, the Rentes dichondra and the Roman chamomile: all plants that form a sort of green carpet, soft, often walkable, and which above all do not ask for water every day.
Good cultivation!
