K-State horticultural expert outlines good options for Kansas landscapes
A Kansas State University horticulture expert says that while fall is a great time to plant perennials, selecting the right plants for the Kansas landscape is important.
Cynthia Domenghini says that for fall planting, it’s best to wait until the weather is cool, but far enough in advance for the roots to establish before the ground freezes.
She shared a list of plants that can tolerate drought once established:
Perennials: Aster, Monada, Butterfly Weed, Coreopsis, Dianthus, Gaillardia, Garden Phlox, Black-eyed Susan.
Herbs: Artemisia, Basil, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Marjoram, Oregano, Sage, Thyme.
Ornamental grasses: Big Blue Stem, Blue Fescue, Fountain Grass, Switchgrass, Porcupine Grass.
Shrubs: Lilac, Forsythia, Rose of Sharon, Cotoneaster, Viburnum, Ninebark, Mockorange, Juniper, Japanese Flowering Quince.
“Though these plants will be tolerant to drought once established, they will need supplemental water initially, especially during hot periods,” Domenghini said.
Domenghini and her colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes and gardens.
Interested persons can subscribe to the newsletter, as well as send their garden and yard-related questions by email to [email protected], or contact your local K-State Research and Extension office.
PHOTO: Gorgeous Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella) flowers. (Adobe Stock │ #296820740 – ihorhvozdetskiy)
