Isat New traffic patterns in effect on Route 29 near Rio Road in Albemarle County © niroworld – stock.adobe Drought-tolerant plants may be the solution to withstanding scorching Virginia summers while keeping the garden in bloom.This spring, instead of planting flowers that require watering every couple of days, try including some known for needing less.There are several flowering annuals and perennials ideal for the conscientious gardener, noted Chris Mullins, a Virginia Cooperative Extension horticulturalist. Things like portulaca, a succulent-looking plant that has a really pretty flower. Its low-growing and can be a good ground cover. Others include the rudbeckia, or black-eyed Susan, and the wild columbine with red and yellow tubular flowers. Theres also lantana with butterfly-attracting flowers, and sedum, another flowering succulent that can grow in just about any landscape. Then there are two with fragrances: sage and lavender, Mullins added. There are different types of sage, and Mexican sage has a nice aroma and flowers. Those can be what you consider drought-tolerant and dont need as much water as some. Ornamental grasses also make a nice addition. Grasses are more drought-tolerant because they use a type of photosynthesis that allows them to hold onto water and use it more efficiently.Zebra grass, with clusters of dappled blades, can add height and interest to a garden or landscape. Little bluestem grass, k <a href=https://www.stanley-stanley-cup.us>stanl |