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Texas Gardening

Planting during a drought?

13 years ago

Hello! I have a dilemma and was looking for advice. I live in 7b, Wichita Falls. We are currently in stage 3 drought restrictions. Only soaker hoses during certain times, etc.

One of my foundation shrubs (loropetalum) died from a disease. Not sure what. None of the others are affected. I've been wanting to replace them for a while since they grow so tall so fast, and I break out in hives when I trim.

Here is my question: should I replace them this fall? I would use drought tolerant plants. However, if we go into stage 4, I can't water at all. I could use gray water, though. Or, should I wait? I hate to waste $$.

Thanks for your help!

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Comments (2)

tx_ag_95
13 years ago
I'd go ahead and replace them this fall. October/November would be a good time frame. If nothing else, remove the existing shrubs now and take the next few months to see if you really need to replace them.

If you decide to replace them, make sure you get something that stays as short as you want, a lot of drought tolerant shrubs don't really like being pruned constantly. That would also save you time and effort!
rachel77
Original Author
13 years ago
Thanks!
I think I will rip them out soon. I'll definitely have to replace them, though. They are the only foundation shrubs I have there. I just needed an opinion on when. I am definitely getting something more compact this time!
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