Selecting Annuals for Dry Locations

We’ve compiled a list of our top drought resistant annuals as well as some best practice tips and tricks to help your annuals survive and thrive in the heat and drought that comes most summers.

Best Practices for Growing in Dry Conditions

• The best remedy for poor water availability is a strong root system, unfortunately here in Southwestern Ontario many of our plants freeze off each year and are not able to build up a strong root zone in the short growing season.
• Cover the soil to prevent water evaporation. Applying several inches of mulch can help create a barrier to keep the root zone protected and moist as well as reduce weed pressure.
• Choose plants that require less water or can survive in drier conditions.
• If planting containers choose a high quality soil-less mix (not a top soil or garden soil) like ProMix and add water retaining granular pellets like SoilMoist. This will help create a mix that is easy to grow in that will also hold moisture longer.
• If your garden beds are sandy, consider adding a 3-in-1 soil (compost, black earth, peat moss) or black earth. This will add organic material to your soil and increase its moisture holding capacity.
• You should water your plants well for at least four weeks after planting to establish a strong root zone that will help your plant thrive in the drier summer months.

Why Grow Drought Tolerant Plants

• Drought tolerant plants can survive on less water, which reduces your environmental footprint, is more sustainable and can help save you money!

Best Annuals for Dry Locations

Ageratum

A popular choice for flower beds and borders. These fast growing, vibrant annuals thrive in full sun and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Cosmos

One of the fastest growing annuals, with lacy leaves and bright pink, white or red daisy-like flowers. Grows best in full sun but can handle partial shade.

Cleome

Can handle shady conditions, prefers sun though. Growth will be delayed in shade and flower masses will be diminished.

Dragon Wing Begonia

Large glossy leaves make it a great texture plant and its unique flowers are eye catching. This heat tolerant plant will bloom all summer long.

Fibre Begonia

Fibre Begonias are compact and hardy! They have vibrant blooms of red, pink, and white. They are ideal for shady spots and occasional pruning can help with more abundant blooms.

Gazania

One of the best garden annuals for a dry location. The unreal, vividly coloured flowers of this South African plant bring a touch of the exotic to the garden. Excellent for sun-baked, hot garden sites with dry soil, very low maintenance.

Lantana

Rapid growing plants with bright purple, red, orange and yellow blooms. Also a sun loving plant attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. High tolerance for dry and hot conditions.

Marigolds

A super popular annual, Marigolds  thrive in full sun conditions. These low maintenance blooms can tolerate drought conditions and  naturally repel pests with their scent.

Portulaca

If you have a hot and dry location, this is a plant that could add colour to a barren location. Comes in large stunning pink or white blossoms. Succulent-like leaves help hold moisture and make this plant very drought resistant.

Sanvitalia

A trailing yellow zinnia flower that can handle dry conditions.

Zinnia

This is one plant that can stand up to the sun. These zinnias thrive in full sun. One of our most drought resistant plants. Available in a range of colours.