Desert Plants

Desert Plants
Life is more abundant in the desert than one might think.  The plants just need to have some clever strategies.  Virtually every handful or dirt or sand you might pick up in the desert will have some perennial or annual seeds in it. 

Desert plants use several strategies to stay alive in extreme conditions.  To xeriscape your yard, most people prefer perennial grasses for their durability and beauty.  Here are some of the strategies that desert plants use.

Dormancy
For all intents and purposes the plant will look dead.  It has a built in mechanism to bring it back to life when water comes.  Many desert seeds remain dormant until spring rains come.  Also, a lot of desert perennials flower in early spring. They have a short lifespan and go dormant for the rest of the season.

No leaves – like Cactus
Small surface area makes the plant more able to keep in water.  In addition, thicker plants retain water better.  Cacti have another feature in that they are prickly.  The prickly spines keep animals from destroying them for water. 

Deep Roots
Mesquite has an 80 foot tap root.  Some desert plants grow so deep that they are near the water table.  How would you like to be a landscaper with the homeowner telling you to make sure you get all the roots.

Day Versus Night
Plants play defense during day and offense during night.  This can be seen by watching the flowers.  They will often open up at night and close during the day. 

Desert Annuals
Desert annuals complete their life cycle in a matter of a few weeks or months.  When you visit the desert, especially in spring, you will see many flowers that are only available for a short amount of time.