Does yarrow need a lot of water?

As an expert in gardening and landscaping, I can confidently say that the common yarrow, or Achillea millefolium, is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require a lot of water to thrive. This makes it a great choice for water-wise gardens, especially in regions with limited water resources or during periods of drought.

When it comes to watering the common yarrow, it is important to keep in mind its natural habitat and watering needs. This plant is native to California and other dry regions, where it has adapted to survive with minimal water. Once established, the common yarrow can typically survive on natural rainfall and does not require additional irrigation.

During the summer months, when water is often scarce, it is recommended to limit watering the common yarrow to no more than once a month. This is because excessive watering can lead to root rot and other issues, as yarrow prefers well-drained soil. By allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, you mimic the natural conditions that this plant is accustomed to.

I have personally experienced the resilience of the common yarrow in my own garden. During a particularly dry summer, I reduced my watering frequency to once a month for my yarrow plants, and they continued to thrive. Their leaves remained green and their flowers bloomed beautifully, even with minimal water.

To further conserve water and promote the health of your yarrow plants, it is beneficial to incorporate mulch around the base of the plants. Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering. Additionally, mulch helps suppress weed growth, which can compete with yarrow for water and nutrients.

The common yarrow is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require a lot of water to flourish. Once established, it can survive with natural rainfall and limited irrigation. By limiting summer watering to no more than once a month and using mulch to conserve moisture, you can create a water-wise garden that showcases the beauty and resilience of this native plant.

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Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.