Try out this low-water garden plan to keep your yard thriving during dry spells.
Caring For Anacacho Orchid Tree
Native to lean, fast-draining soils of the southwest United States and Mexico, anacacho orchid is available as a tree, multi-stem tree, and shrub at specialty nurseries. It has a dense, bushy form in its native habitat but with selective pruning can be sculpted into an upright tree with an open, airy habit. Shrub forms of anacacho orchid are equally beautiful and bring the fragrant flowers to eye level. Plant anacacho orchid in early spring. Choose a planting site with full sun or part shade. Remember, though, plants in full sun will flower more robustly than those growing in part shade. Drainage is important. Select a site with quick-draining soil; anacacho orchid does not grow well in heavy clay. Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to encourage strong root growth. Regular irrigation in dry environments is beneficial and will keep the plant looking its best through extended dry periods. A 2-inch-thick layer of mulch over the root zone will also help conserve soil moisture. Do not fertilize anacacho orchid. Fertilizing causes quick and weak growth and negatively impacts the structure of the tree. Find more flowering shrubs to fill empty spaces in your garden with pops of color. Significant cold periods threaten anacacho orchid. A freeze will often kill branches but will rarely kill the tree or shrub. Expect the size of the plant to be reduced, but a healthy plant will take off and grow again with gusto. In Zone 8, plant anacacho orchid on the south side of a building where it will receive some protection from cold spells and winter winds.
