Waterwise plants for your garden.

South Africa has recently experienced a severe drought, especially within the Cape, where water restrictions are becoming a serious concern. That being said, highlighting the importance of conserving water in our gardens cannot be overstated. Preparing our gardens with waterwise plants that thrive in dry conditions is crucial with winter approaching. 

These plants are a great addition to any garden and can help reduce water consumption while adding beauty and diversity to your space. 
 

Making the transition

Transitioning to water-wise gardening is a great way to conserve water and create a more sustainable outdoor living space. Here are three ways to make the transition.

• Draw up a basic plan

Start by creating a plan for your garden and researching the plants' water needs you want to grow. Group plants together based on their water requirements so that you can water them more efficiently.

• Move water-efficient plants 

Start transitioning by moving water-efficient plants into the same beds. This can be a gradual process, and you can gradually move plants around over time.

• Choose the right location 

When selecting new plants, choose ones adapted to your local climate and soil conditions. Place plants that require a lot of water in areas where drainage is not excellent or where more water is available, such as near a stormwater pipe. This will help ensure your plants receive suitable water and thrive in your garden.

Here are five waterwise plants that are well-suited for South African gardens.
 

1.     Aptenia cordifolia

Image Source: Sucsforyou.com

Commonly referred to as the Heart-Leaved Ice Plant, this hardy succulent is known for its bright pink or purple flowers and trailing growth habit, making it a popular choice for ground cover or hanging baskets. Aptenia cordifolia requires minimal watering and prefers full sun to partial shade. 

It's an excellent plant for gardeners with little time to maintain their gardens, as it's low-maintenance and can tolerate poor soil conditions. To maintain Aptenia cordifolia, prune back any dead or yellow leaves and fertilise once a year.
 

2.    Agapanthus Praecox

Image Source: Flickr.com

Agapanthus praecox is a beautiful flowering plant that produces clusters of blue or white flowers on tall stalks earning the local name of African Lily. It's a hardy plant that can tolerate drought conditions and prefers full sun to partial shade. Agapanthus praecox is well-suited for borders or as a focal point in the garden. To maintain Agapanthus praecox, water deeply once a week and fertilise in the spring and summer.
 

3.    Aloe

Image Source: Dailymaveric.co.za

Aloe is a popular succulent known for its medicinal properties and unique appearance. It comes in various sizes and colours and can be planted in pots or on the ground. Aloe prefers full sun to partial shade and requires minimal watering, making it an excellent choice for waterwise gardens. Aloe is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a great addition to any indoor space. To maintain Aloe, prune back any dead or yellow leaves and fertilise once a year.
 

4.    Strelitzia reginae 

Image Source: Unsplashfreeimages.com

Strelitzia reginae is a striking plant known for its vibrant orange and blue flowers resembling a bird in flight, earning it the common title Bird of Paradise. It's a hardy plant that can tolerate drought conditions and prefers full sun to partial shade. Strelitzia reginae is well-suited for borders or as a focal point in the garden. Keep your Strelitzia healthy, water deeply once a week, and fertilise in spring and summer.
 

5.    Asparagus densiflorus

Image Source: Homeplantsguide.com

Asparagus densiflorus is commonly known as "Asparagus fern" or "Foxtail fern" due to its fern-like appearance. It is a popular houseplant and ornamental plant that belongs to the lily family. Asparagus ferns prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.

Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry, but don't let the soil become waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, a common occurrence for this particular "fern." Asparagus ferns can be grown as a ground cover, in hanging baskets, or as a border plant. Asparagus ferns are also often used as an accent plant in flower arrangements, lending to their versatility as a decorative piece.
 

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