The drought plant watering frequency depends on whether your plants are new or settled in your garden. New plants need water twice per week during their first month to help roots grow. After the first growing season, cut back to every two or three weeks during dry spells. Plants in the ground for two years or more can often go a full month without extra water.
I spent three years testing different watering schedules to figure out what works best in my garden. My sedum and lavender did great with deep soaking once per week during year one. The Russian sage seemed to prefer even less water and grew stronger when I let the soil dry out. Each plant taught me something about how much water drought plants need to thrive.
Research from Colorado State Extension shows that woody plants need at least two full growing seasons to develop strong roots. During this time, your plant's roots spread out and push down into the soil. Once roots reach deep water sources, your plant no longer depends on you for regular watering. Most gardeners water too much and never let plants build this deep root system.
Watering depth matters more than how often you water your drought plants in summer heat. Light watering keeps roots near the surface where soil dries out fast. Deep watering dry garden style pushes moisture down where roots can follow it. Roots only grow where water exists, so you control where they go by how you water each time.
The watering schedule xeriscape gardeners use involves soaking soil deep for your plants. Perennials need moisture down 8 inches (20 cm) into the ground for good roots. Your shrubs need water reaching 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 cm) down. This takes more time than a quick spray but pays off big in summer.
You should check your soil moisture before you water rather than following a strict calendar. Push your finger 2 inches (5 cm) into the soil near your plant and feel for moisture. If the soil feels dry at that depth, water deep. If you still feel moisture, wait a few days and check again.
Morning is the best time to water your drought plants for several good reasons. Cool air means less water evaporates before it soaks into your ground. Your plant's leaves dry before nightfall, which prevents fungal problems in your garden. Avoid watering in afternoon heat when much of your water turns to steam.
Seasonal changes affect drought plant watering frequency throughout the year in your yard. Spring rains often provide all the moisture your new growth requires without help. Summer brings the highest demand, but established plants need water only every few weeks. Fall is time to let your plants dry out and prepare for winter ahead.
My garden runs on autopilot now that my plants have deep roots reaching far into the ground. I water my oldest drought plants maybe five or six times per year during long dry stretches. The rest of the time, they find water on their own. Give your plants time to establish and they reward you with years of easy care.
Read the full article: Top 10 Drought Resistant Plants for Gardens
