Resilient dog-friendly garden plants that can withstand drought conditions
Drought-Tolerant and Dog-Friendly Plants for Your Garden
In a dog-friendly garden, finding plants that are not only resilient to dry conditions but also safe for our furry companions can be a challenge. However, there are several options available that make this balance achievable. Julian Palphramand, head of plants at British Garden Centres, recommends a list of plants that fit this criteria, including rosemary, maiden grass, and blue fescue.
Rosemary is a hardy, drought-tolerant herb that thrives in sunny, well-drained soils. It's not only a practical addition to your garden but also a useful ingredient in the kitchen. This versatile plant is safe for dogs, making it a perfect choice for a dog-friendly garden.
Maiden grass (Miscanthus sinensis) is a soft, billowy ornamental grass that tolerates drought well and is non-toxic to dogs. Its sturdy yet gentle nature provides a safe space for dogs to explore and sniff.
Blue fescue is another ornamental grass option that withstands long dry spells and can serve as a dog-safe lawn alternative. While specific details about purchasing blue fescue were not provided, it is known to be a good drought-tolerant choice for a dog-friendly garden.
Other plants that are safe for dogs and can tolerate moderate drought once established include bee balm (Monarda), coreopsis (Tickseed), and purple coneflower (Echinacea). These perennials add a splash of color to your garden, with bee balm producing bright and cheerful blooms, such as the 'Profusion Mixed' variety from Thompson & Morgan.
Zinnias are one of the best drought-tolerant plants that are safe for dogs. These colorful flowers bloom all summer, providing a vibrant display in your dog-friendly garden.
Ferns provide soft greenery and are safe for dogs, though they may need some watering in drought conditions. Thyme, an aromatic groundcover or shrub, is another drought-tolerant option that adds practicality and fragrance to your garden.
Sunflowers and roses are also drought-tolerant and safe for dogs, adding height and color to a dog-friendly garden. Sophie King, Gardens Editor, has a soft spot for roses and dinnerplate dahlias, but it's worth noting that these plants may require more water than the other options mentioned.
Lavender is another excellent drought-tolerant plant for pots. This fragrant plant thrives in sunny areas, doesn't require much water once established, and helps keep pests like fleas at bay. However, it's recommended to avoid letting dogs eat too much lavender, just to be on the safe side.
By choosing these non-toxic plants, you can ensure your garden remains safe for dogs without sacrificing drought resilience. Whether you're looking for grasses, herbs, flowers, or perennials, there are plenty of options available to create a beautiful, dog-friendly garden.
For those interested, a rosemary bush can be purchased for £1.99 from Gardening Express, and a pack of five blue fescue plants can be ordered for £24.99 from the same source.
Houseplants such as rosemary, thyme, and lavender can be included in a home-and-garden lifestyle that emphasizes drought tolerance and dog safety, as these plants are safe for dogs and thrive in well-drained soils and sunny conditions. Additionally, non-toxic houseplants like ferns can add soft greenery and serve as a practical addition for a dog-friendly home interior.
