Drought-resistant plants for your terrace: Keep your outdoor space green this summer

Summer has arrived in our homes. The longer days, higher temperatures and changes in our daily routine all affect something that is a vital for decoration and life: plants.

It can be a real challenge keeping your plants healthy in summer but this shouldn’t stop us from turning our terraces into a green space.

There are several drought-resistant plants that can survive with little water.

Drought-resistant plants are ideal for your terrace, not only because they make your home more attractive and cooler but also because they are easier to look after and need less special care.

The best plants for dry conditions are:

Succulents

Succulents are perfect for terraces with a limited water supply because they are adapted to store water in their leaves, stems and roots. Some of the most popular options are Aloe vera, Echeveria, Crassula and Sedum. These plants come in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes enabling you to create some interesting arrangements on your terrace.

See: https://www.pinterest.es/pin/824299538060536338/

Lavender

Lavender is an aromatic species that is drought-tolerant and perfect for making your terrace more attractive and fragrant. Its beautiful purple flowers and relaxing smell make it a popular choice. Lavender prefers well drained soils with a sunny aspect, making it ideal for terrace in direct sun, such as those in our Avda. de Euro residential complex.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a Mediterranean drought-resistant species that adds a bit of flavour and aroma to your food. As well as being a versatile herb, rosemary is a perennial that is easy to look after and can survive with little water. Put some plant pots with rosemary on you terrace and enjoy the fresh and pleasant smell and hints of the Mediterranean at Las Terrazas de Gran Vía (Alicante).

Pampas grass

If you’re looking for a large plant that brings an exotic touch to your terrace, look no further than Pampas grass. This perennial is drought-tolerant and can grow really tall. Its large  and lush plumes are elegant and catch the eye. Pampas grass is easy to care for and great for bringing a touch of flourish to your terrace.

Cacti

Cacti are a classic among drought-resistant species of plant. They come in many shapes and sizes so you can create a collection with a real mix of varieties on your terrace. From the popular San Pedro cactus to the small ball cacti, there’s something for every taste. Cacti are well known for their ability to survive in extremely dry conditions and need very little water and care.

One thing to remember about drought-resistant plants is to look after them. When you go away on holiday, it’s important to make sure they are appropriately positioned in a sheltered location and get the right amount of water. Provided you follow these tips, they’ll stay in great shape all summer and while you are away on holiday.

How to care for your plants when you go on holiday

• Group your plants together

Putting your plants in the same place can help create a moister micro-climate. Plants transpire through their leaves releasing vapour into the surrounding air. By grouping them together they will benefit from residual humidity and will help each other to maintain the right level of humidity.

• Bottom watering

If you have any plants that can’t withstand drying out you can use the bottom watering method. Fill a tray or large container with water and put your plant pots in it, ensuring the water doesn’t reach the top of them. The roots will absorb the water as the plants need it.

• Drip irrigation

Installing a drip irrigation system is a great option for watering your plants efficiently while you are away. This type of system delivers a constant flow of water drop by drop, ensuring plants receive the water they need without wasting any. You can find automated drip irrigation systems that can be programmed to water your plants at set intervals.

• Self-watering plant pots

Another practical solution is to use self-watering plant pots. These pots have a special compartment in the base to store water. As the plants need water they absorb it through holes in the bottom of the pot. This means plants are automatically watered over long periods as they can drink the water when they need to.

• Upside down water bottles

A DIY solution is to use upside down water bottles to water your plants. Fill a plastic bottle with water and put it upside down in the plant pot. The water will gradually be released and irrigate the plant as the soil dries out. This is especially good for indoor plants.

Don’t forget to prepare your plants before heading off on holiday. Give them enough water before you leave and take off any brown or infected leaves that could affect the plant’s health while you are away.

It’s easy to create a green oasis on your terrace, even when its really dry, thanks to the wide variety of plants that can survive with little water. There are various species you can choose from to make your terrace more beautiful and cooler that are all pretty low maintenance. These plants are not only drought-resistant but also bring an individual and unique touch to your outdoor space making your home even more special.

Find the place of your dreams and use the summer to move into a Testa home.