In previous articles, we have been discussing the trend toward lower maintenance landscapes. As people are spending more time with their families and friends, enjoying their backyards, patio furniture, and
picnic tables, they are finding many ways to cut down on yard work. One alternative is to use drought-tolerant (xeric) plants. This method has become quite popular, as it not only saves time, but conserves water as well.If the mention of such plants conjures only images of cacti, be assured that their varieties are numerous, colorful, and helpful to the environment. For example, lavender, which is loved and cherished by millions and famed in song and story is a hardy plant that hardly needs attention. Lavandula Angustifolia, as it is technically known, thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, growing up to three feet tall, and producing heavenly-smelling lavender, blue, or white flowers in the summer.Yarrow is another striking perennial that's easy to raise, even under very hot, dry conditions. There are several types of this flower, which may be seen in many stunning shades of pink, red, orange, yellow, and white, growing up to four feet tall. Besides being a great cut flower, yarrow also has the advantage of being distasteful to rabbits, deer, and other wildlife.The bright little sundrop, or Oenothera Macrocarpa, is aptly named, as it flourishes in full sun and well-drained soil. Blooming from spring into early fall, it grows to about six inches tall. One thing to watch out for, however, is that this dynamo of a perennial can become quite aggressive, particularly in very rich soil.Agastache Desert Sunrise' can reach a height of four feet. All through the summer and fall, this beauty, with the help of the blazing sun and very little moisture, continues to swaddle itself in orange blossoms that are tinted with lavender and pink.One of the most gorgeous and least used perennials, Amsonia Tabernaemontana, is an absolute marvel. Late in the spring, it bears clusters of bright flowers, which, as if in tribute to the sky, closely match its color. In autumn, it attempts to mimic the brilliance of the changing leaves, as it turns its foliage to radiant shades of gold. Amsonia, which produces this breath-taking show with little water and lots of sun, can grow as high as two feet.These are just a few of the drought-resistant plants that will bring color and beauty not to mention hummingbirds and butterflies into your backyard. Another thing that will make a really spectacular addition to your landscape is a picnic table from AllPicnicTables.com, where you'll find the most varieties in one place.AllPicnicTables.com has decay-resistant cedar, pine, and oak, as well as aluminum, polywood, and thermo-plastic-coated steel tables that will never rust, break, or warp, even if they're left outside year-round. That should be very good news, because, with all of the luscious scenery in your backyard, you'll want to cook out as often as possible.To see the entire selection, go to
AllPicnicTables.com. If you wish to contact a design consultant or a customer service representative, call 1-888-293-2339, or e-mail
contact@allpicnictables.com. The best part is that you won't have to worry about referring to the products by any long, Latin names just call em picnic tables.
