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12 Drought-Tolerant Vegetables
That Are Easy To Grow In
The Garden
By NICK POLISHCHUK
Beets
Beets need fertile, well-draining soil. Once the soil temperature passes 40 degrees Fahrenheit, dig 1-inch-deep holes a few inches apart, and sow the seeds.
Beets are susceptible to drought stress in the first six weeks after germination, so water them frequently and add nitrogen-rich fertilizer a month and a half after germination.
Carrots
Plant carrots early so the roots can access moisture before the dry weather hits. When the soil temperature passes 40 degrees Fahrenheit, you can plant the seeds.
Six weeks after the seedlings sprout, use a nitrogen fertilizer to help with the roots’ growth. Weeds generally outcompete carrots, so be sure to remove them promptly.
Butter Beans
These beans need sun and fairly acidic, fertile, well-draining soil. After the frost, sow the seeds 2 inches deep, eye facing down, and don’t let the foliage get wet.
Chickpeas
Their long roots allow them to absorb moisture far below the surface. Plant them indoors and then transplant them once the soil temperature passes 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Transplant the seedlings into well-drained, somewhat fertile soil in a spot that gets lots of direct sun. Seedlings should be given at least 4 inches of space between each other.
Pole Beans
These beans can grow vertically in a tight space in dry weather regions. Varieties include Blue Coco, Garden of Eden, Romano, Louisiana Purple Pod, and Selma Zesta.
Plant the seeds after the frost when the soil temperature is over 48 degrees Fahrenheit. They like slightly acidic, well-draining, fairly fertile soil and don’t need fertilizer.