What plants can survive the harsh climate of West Texas?

The South Plains isn’t known for having a mild climate. The crazy winds, erratic temperatures and currently, our historical drought, to heavy rainfall of West Texas make it a challenging place to garden. Luckily, we have some basic ideas for what to plant in your yard.

Perennials

Because perennials live for years, they are the backbone of any landscape design. Depending on the climate, some perennials may keep their leaves through the winter, but most drop them and die back to the ground to return in the spring.

Planting ideas:

• Lavender
• Sage
• Daisy
• Lantana
• Verbena
• Salvia
• Coral Bells
• Iris
• Black Eyed Susan
• Day Lily

Annuals

As their name implies, annuals are plants that complete their life cycle in only one season. They are great for adding a splash of color to your yard in springtime. Plan on filling your seasonal flower beds with annuals this spring. When they die back at the end of the season, remove spent blooms.

Planting ideas:

• • Poppy
  • Petunia
  • Lantana
  • Sunflower
  • Geranium
  • Zinnia
  • Begonia
  • Dianthus

  Vines

  Because of their ability to climb, vines add another dimension to gardens. They can be planted near any vertical structure to create an interwoven eyepiece in your garden. Popular choices are arbors and fences. To add even more natural beauty to your yard, vines attract butterflies. Vines are usually perennial, which is a plus!

  Planting ideas:

  • • Honeysuckle
    • Trumpet Vine
    • Passion Flower
    • Wisteria
    • Clematis
    • English Ivy
    • Virginia Creeper
    • Silver Lace Vine

  Shrubs

  Shrubs are foundational to any landscape or garden. They are compact and easily shaped, but also full. They can easily fill holes in your landscape. They can be used to border your landscape or add color to your yard. They are also low-maintenance, just trim them occasionally.

  Planting ideas:

  • Rosemary
  • Texas Sage
  • Purple Smoke Bush
  • Knock Out Roses
  • Indian Hawthorne
  • Nandina
  • Crape Myrtle
  • Yaupon Holly
  • Butterfly Bush
  • Althea

  Check out our other blog posts for more expert knowledge on the best gardening tips.