The Manscapers’ Tips for Drought-Tolerant Gardening

CHOOSE YOUR PLANTS: Don’t be fooled into thinking only succulents and cacti are drought-tolerant! Colorful favorites such as Black-eyed Susan, Lantana, Lavender, Sage and Coneflowers are all drought-tolerant and are some of our favorite staples in the garden. 

LAWN, BE GONE: Trade your lawn for a more modern alternative (and drastically cut water usage!) by using gravel walkways and chic minimalist pavers. 

LET THE RAIN FALL DOWN: Consider purchasing a rain barrel (we suggest one below!) and use that collection for watering. PS. Plants love the natural nutrients that come from rainwater. 

MULCH IS YOUR FRIEND: Adding a top layer of mulch can prevent soil from overheating, thus preventing moisture from evaporating in your garden. Plus, it prevents weeds from growing!

The Manscapers' Tips for Vegetable Gardening

Image by Dane Tashima

June is here! And I couldn’t be more excited for Summer. It’s time to get outside and enjoy the warm weather and the garden as it reaches full bloom. Even if you’ve gotten a late start this year, don’t worry - there’s still plenty of time to plant more produce, herbs, and beautiful blooms. This month, I’m sharing my tips for creating a successful and bountiful vegetable garden. So, come on and let’s get planting.

Hint: It’s not too late to start! Fast growing vegetables such as tomatoes, summer squash, green beans and cucumber will still have a bountiful harvest even when planted in June. 

FIND THE SUN: Keep an eye out in your garden for areas that see the most sun, as some produce (cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers) require eight or more hours of direct sunlight - while others (such as leafy greens) can survive on four!

CHECK THE RAIN: As you did with the sun, be sure to check if your yard has places where water seems to linger after a heavy rain as you want to avoid planting in these areas. 

START SMALL: You’d be surprised how much food can be produced from a few raised beds, and it’ll be so much more enjoyable if you start with only a couple of your favorite vegetables!

MEET MULCH: Adding a layer of mulch can help retain the moisture in your soil, which means less watering and weeding! 

PS. Keep a gardening journal to learn what works, and what doesn’t for next year!