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Help your garden survive the summer with these heat-friendly plants

Whether you're adding to your garden or replacing plants that have failed or have been damaged, heat tolerance is of primary importance. Proper care is equally vital during this heat wave.
Credit: Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images
SOUTHPORT, ENGLAND - AUGUST 14: A lone potted flower sits in the marquee as exhibitors prepare for the Southport Flower Show on August 14, 2013 in Southport, England.

Whether you're adding to your garden or replacing plants that have failed or have been damaged, heat tolerance is of primary importance. Proper care is equally vital during this heat wave.

The best additions that will survive and thrive are those that are native to hot climates. These include petunias, sweet potato vine and verbena from South America, oxalis and begonias from Central America, and dahlias and marigolds from Mexico.

Many species of salvia are also native to Mexico and Texas.

Globe amaranth (Gomphrena) and basil originated in India. Herbs such as oregano and thyme are from the Mediterranean region. Fan flower and straw flower come from Australia. The most popular summer flower -- the geranium -- is native to Africa.

Take good care of your new plants. Expose them gradually to the full sun. Once planted, be generous with water. All plants need to be checked daily to see if they're dry.

Drench them thoroughly when you water. The best time to water is early in the morning or in the early evening. I prefer the latter, since the plants can fully hydrate before facing the heat of the day.

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