Re: Hebes
There are big variations in climate in New Zealand because of the
terrain. Annual rainfall varies from around 350 mm to around 2850. and
seasonal ranfall patterns also vary. Big difference can occur even
between areas a few miles apart. There's a summary at
http://www.metservice.co.nz/knowledge/data_climate_summaries.asp
I'm in Blenheim where the average rainfall is under 30 inches, mostly in
the winter. Many of the vineyards I drive past on the way to work have
irrigation, and the garlic is being watered constantly.
In this area I see quite a few hebes doing well, and I don't think they
are all watered on a regular basis. I'd be looking at smaller leaved
varieties for higher drought tolerance. But hebes tend to be good tough
plants.
Tim Longville wrote:
>
> I wouldn't have thought these were naturally suited to a real
> Mediterranean environment. They come, after all, from NZ - which,
> though parts of it are Mediterranean in some senses, doesn't anywhere
> (does it? Moira? Tim?) have the characteristic extended hot dry summer
> of a true Med climate. Ideally, they seem to flourish best with
> relatively cool moist summers and mild moist winters - almost the
> reverse of your hot dry summer and quite cold winter. So it's
> difficult to be encouraging. Pity, because I think they're splendid
> and undervalued plants.
>
...
>
> Perhaps Moira or Tim will be able to suggest species or cultivars
> which are more adapted than most to drier summers and colder winters:
> here's hoping!
> Tim Longville
