After the Rain

Besides the Ponderosa pine, lilac and lavender, plants that have defied the wrath of summer’s sun and lack of water include: smoke bush cotinus, peonies, juniper, ornamental grass, Karl Forester, sedum, and of course, native plants that have proven their faithfulness for eons.

Plants that have appeared to “bite the dust” such as varieties of spirea, barberry, burring bush euonymus, hydrangea and roses may be pruned to stimulate new growth.

Perennials such as the penstemon, Husker Red and hostas have rejuvenated after the gift of August rain.

Though you may not appreciate your “yellow grass” yo...