Even tough native plants require regular irrigation when they are first planted. It may take up to two summers before they are considered established. Fast-draining soils and frequent drying winds cause new plants to dry out quickly, so be sure to pay special attention to their moisture needs during these times.
Below are 12 things to keep in mind when shopping for plants:
- Height and width at 5 years, 10 years, and at maturity
- Rate of growth: slow, moderate fast
- Flowering habit, bloom period
- Foliage type: coarse, medium, fine
- Water requirement: low, moderate, high
- Nutrient needs: native plants require minimum
- Preferred soil type and soil drainage requirement
- Exposure: reflected sun, sun, filtered shade, shade
- Hardiness to cold
- Heat and sun tolerance
- Relationship to other plants: “plant partnerships”
- Ideal planting season
Source: Lush and Efficient
