by Amy Fluet

Amy's thoughts on gardening in Laramie

(The two lists to which Amy refers below are not yet loaded on the Web site, the delay is my fault, not Amy's. Please check back soon--Webmaster)

     These lists of drought-tolerant plants are a work in progress.  They contain perennials and some annuals; in the future, we hope to add lists for trees, shrubs, herbs, vines, cacti, and ornamental grasses.

     The lists are presented as PDF files in two different formats:  one is alphabetized based on scientific plant names, and the other is alphabetized by common plant names.

     The information in the list is based on research and not actual growing experience.  To the best of my knowledge, these plants should grow in Laramie.  As I gain more experience with the plants, I’ll certainly be making whatever changes are needed.  If you have comments, additions, or corrections, please email Amy Fluet.

     I’ve been optimistic about the zone classification; the zone listed is the lowest one I found.  Some of these plants may not be as consistently hardy as indicated.  Also, depending on where you live in Laramie (and on the microclimates in your yard), zone 4 plants may not be hardy enough for you to grow.  If there’s a more tender plant that you love, I think it’s worth taking the chance and trying it in a sheltered area.  (Of course, this is for perennials; when it comes to planting trees, I believe in selecting more hardy species.)

     When designing a water-wise garden, remember that drought-tolerant plants are effective at reducing water consumption only if they are planted with other drought-tolerant plants.  Think about grouping plants in your landscape that require similar amounts of water.

     Finally, I’d like to thank Karen Panter, Extension Horticulture Specialist at the University of Wyoming, and Jonathan High, Water Outreach Coordinator for Laramie, for the plant information they gave me.