Lawn Care and Landscape Maintenance

Planting in Dry Soils

Posted on by Land Design Associates
Purple flower blooming in cracked dry soil under a sunset sky.
19
Apr

Dry Soil Planting 

Planting in tough sites with dry soil can be challenging, but there are several hardy and drought-tolerant plants that can thrive in such conditions in Massachusetts. When selecting plants for these areas, it’s important to choose species that are adapted to the region’s climate and can withstand periods of drought. Here are some recommendations for plants suitable for tough sites with dry soil in Massachusetts:

Perennials

Sedum (Stonecrop)

Sedums are succulent plants that store water in their leaves, making them well-suited for dry conditions. They come in various colors and sizes.

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Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow is a hardy perennial with feathery foliage and clusters of flat-topped flowers. It’s drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators.

Coreopsis Vert

Sedum (Stonecrop)

Sedums are succulent plants that store water in their leaves, making them well-suited for dry conditions. They come in various colors and sizes.

sedum, plant, pink, bloom

Shrubs

Juniper (Juniperus spp.)

Junipers are evergreen shrubs that are well-adapted to dry conditions. They come in various shapes and sizes and provide year-round interest.

Gin Fizz Juniper Evergreen Shrub Juniperus Chinensis Proven Winners 14599

 Witch Hazel (Hamamelis spp.)

Witch hazel is a deciduous shrub that’s known for its unique, spidery flowers. It’s relatively drought-tolerant once established.

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Sumac (Rhus spp.)

Some sumac varieties, such as staghorn sumac, can tolerate dry soils. They provide attractive fall foliage.

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Grasses

 Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)

This native grass is drought-tolerant and adds texture and color to the landscape, especially in the fall.

Schizachyarium Scoparium Bordered

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)

Switchgrass is a sturdy native grass that’s adaptable to a range of soil conditions, including dry ones.

Switchgrass 9 5 07

Groundcovers

Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)

Creeping phlox forms a dense mat of colorful flowers and is well-suited for dry, rocky soils.

Image 93

Ice Plant (Delosperma spp.)

Ice plants are succulent groundcovers with vibrant, daisy-like flowers. They are drought-tolerant and thrive in well-draining soil.

Ice Plant

Trees

Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)

This native evergreen tree is well-adapted to dry conditions and provides year-round interest.

Juniperus Virginiana Tree Scaled 637x320@2x

Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)

Some serviceberry species are drought-tolerant and offer spring flowers, attractive foliage, and edible berries.

Amelanchier X Grandiflora Coles Select OBG 2015.jpg

When planting in tough, dry sites, it’s crucial to improve the soil with organic matter, mulch around plants to retain moisture, and provide adequate watering during establishment. Additionally, selecting native plants can enhance the ecological value and resilience of the landscape. Always consider the specific growing conditions of your site when choosing plants, and consult with local nurseries or gardening experts for personalized advice.