Gardening in Tulsa, Oklahoma, offers unique opportunities for a vibrant landscape. Understanding the local environment, including its distinct climate and soil conditions, is key. This guide provides insights into selecting and caring for plants that flourish in Tulsa, helping to create a thriving outdoor space.
Tulsa’s Unique Growing Conditions
Understanding Tulsa’s environmental factors is the first step toward successful gardening. The region’s climate and soil characteristics significantly influence plant health and growth.
USDA Hardiness Zone
Tulsa falls within USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 7a and 7b. Zone 7a experiences average annual minimum temperatures between 0°F and 5°F, while Zone 7b ranges from 5°F to 10°F. Selecting plants rated for these zones or lower ensures their winter survival.
Climate Considerations
Tulsa’s climate features hot, humid summers and mild winters. The area experiences late frosts in spring, affecting early plantings. Managing heat and humidity during summer months is important for many plants.
Soil Characteristics
The predominant soil type across much of Tulsa is heavy clay. This soil presents challenges such as poor drainage and compaction, impeding root development and water absorption. Amending clay soil to improve its structure and permeability is a necessary step for healthy plant growth.
Thriving Plants for Tulsa Gardens
Selecting plants well-suited to Tulsa’s climate and soil is key to a beautiful and resilient garden. Diverse plant types, including trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals, add visual interest and support local ecosystems.
Trees and Shrubs
Several trees and shrubs thrive in Tulsa’s conditions, offering shade, ornamental appeal, and privacy. The Oklahoma Redbud (Cercis canadensis var. texensis ‘Oklahoma’) is a popular choice, known for its vibrant spring blooms and adaptability. Red Maples (Acer rubrum) are fast-growing trees that provide excellent fall color and tolerate clay soils.
Shumard Oaks (Quercus shumardii) are resilient shade trees that grow quickly and tolerate both drought and temporary wet conditions. Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) and Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum) are also suitable, with Bald Cypress adapted to wet soils despite its deciduous nature. Crape Myrtles are heat-loving shrubs or small trees that offer long-lasting summer blooms.
Perennials and Annuals
Resilient perennials return year after year, providing consistent beauty with less effort. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) and Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) are hardy choices, offering bright, daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators. Daylilies (Hemerocallis) and various Salvia species, such as Autumn Sage, are well-adapted to heat and provide extended bloom periods. Bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana) offers unique blue flowers in spring and attractive fall foliage.
For seasonal color, annuals provide vibrant displays throughout warmer months. Marigolds, Zinnias, and Petunias, including ‘Supertunia Vista Bubblegum’, are reliable options for continuous flowering. Vincas (Catharanthus roseus) and Cuphea species are also heat-tolerant annuals that perform well in Tulsa’s summers. Pansies are excellent for cooler season color in fall and spring.
Native Plants
Incorporating native Oklahoma plants offers numerous benefits, including reduced water requirements and support for local wildlife. Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella), the state wildflower, produces cheerful red and yellow blooms and tolerates dry conditions. Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is important for monarch butterflies and thrives in sunny, well-drained locations.
Eastern Redbud is a native tree that heralds spring with its profuse pink flowers. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is a tall perennial grass that adds texture and adapts to various soil types. Passionflower Vine (Passiflora incarnata) is a native vine with unique purple flowers that support pollinators.
Overcoming Gardening Challenges in Tulsa
Tulsa’s climate presents specific gardening challenges. Addressing these issues proactively helps ensure plant health and garden success by mitigating environmental stressors.
Dealing with Heat and Drought
Tulsa’s hot summers and periods of drought require thoughtful water management. Applying organic mulch around plants helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Efficient irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation or soaker hoses, deliver water directly to plant roots, minimizing waste. Selecting drought-tolerant plant varieties significantly reduces the need for supplemental watering once established.
Managing Heavy Clay Soil
Improving Tulsa’s heavy clay soil is important for healthy root development and drainage. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost, well-rotted manure, or peat moss, lightens the soil structure and enhances aeration. Raised garden beds offer an immediate solution for poor drainage, providing an ideal growing medium. Proper tilling or digging, avoiding compaction when the soil is wet, also helps maintain good soil structure.
Common Pests and Diseases
Gardeners in Tulsa may encounter common pests like aphids and spider mites, and diseases such as powdery mildew. Encouraging beneficial insects, like ladybugs, helps control pest populations naturally. Ensuring good air circulation around plants and practicing proper watering techniques deters fungal diseases. Regularly inspecting plants for signs of distress allows for early intervention and more effective management.
Connecting with Tulsa’s Plant Community
Engaging with local resources and the gardening community provides valuable support. These connections offer access to expert advice, regionally adapted plants, and shared experiences, enhancing gardening success and enjoyment.
Local nurseries and garden centers
Local nurseries and garden centers, such as Southwood Landscape and Garden Center and Rancho Flores Garden Center, offer a wide selection of plants suited for Tulsa. These establishments provide expert advice tailored to the region’s challenges and opportunities, guiding plant selection and offering insights into local growing conditions.
The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service (OSU Extension)
The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service (OSU Extension) is a comprehensive resource for gardening information. The Tulsa County OSU Extension Service provides educational programs, a diagnostic center, and a gardening hotline staffed by Master Gardeners, offering research-based solutions to gardening questions and problems.
Participating in local garden clubs and plant societies
Participating in local garden clubs and plant societies fosters community and shared knowledge. The Tulsa Botanic Garden offers educational programs and a diverse plant collection, serving as inspiration for local gardeners. Organizations like the Tulsa Perennial Club, Tulsa Garden Club, and the Oklahoma Native Plant Society provide opportunities for learning, sharing plants, and engaging with fellow enthusiasts.