There is no doubt that the summer seasons are changing
here in the UK. Generally, it seems that we are in for long dry summers.
This in turn then brings us to the problem of plants for dry areas.
Hosepipe bans combined, it then makes sense to consider planting more drought tolerant
species in our gardens.
Shrubby Salvias, particularly the Mexican species and hybrids are very
valuable plants for planting in dry area and conditions in the garden.
These extraordinary plants combine a very diverse colour range with an
extremely long flowering period, typically from May through to late
November or early December.
Once established they need no additional water other than what may or
may not fall out of the sky.
The main species of note in this group of plants are Salvia
microphylla, Salvia greggii and the hybrid between these two
species: Salvia x jamensis.
Salvia x jamensis 'Sierra San Antonio'
The cultural requirements required for these pants is a sunny position
and very well-drained soil. The pH is not important as plants will thrive
in either acid or alkaline conditions.
Planting is best carried out in the period May to July/August although
we have had some success planting as late as September in favourable
seasons.
Pruning should not be attempted in the autumn or winter months; best to
wait until mid to late April when the plants are coming back into growth.
It is important not to prune too hard and certainly never into bare wood
where no new growth is emerging. Light pruning and deadheading during the
growing season will help to encourage nice bushy plants, especially in
young plants.
